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Cindy Wagman and Jess Campbell
Ever wish you could pull back the curtain and see how other nonprofit consultants run their businesses? Well, we’ve got you covered! Welcome to the Confessions podcast, hosted by Jess Campbell and Cindy Wagman. We are two former in-house nonprofit pros turned coaches and consultants to purpose driven organizations. In this podcast, we are giving you access to the business leaders who serve nonprofits as their clients - you know - the people who truly get it. No more gatekeeping, no more secrets - this podcast is going to give you an inside look at what running a successful nonprofit coaching and consulting business looks like. Basically, we’re asking people how much money they make, how they get paid and what has and hasn’t worked in their businesses.After building our own successful 6-figure nonprofit coaching and consulting businesses, we are on a mission to help other nonprofit coaches and consultants looking to start or scale their own businesses by pulling back the curtain. Whether you are still working inside a nonprofit and thinking of one day going out on your own or have been running your consulting business for years - you understand that working with nonprofits is just different. Listen in as sector leaders and other experts share their insights, their numbers, and the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to building a nonprofit coaching or consulting business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Joy (and Strategy) of Client Gifts
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s especially timely as we head into the holiday season: gift giving. Whether you’re looking to show appreciation to clients, strengthen relationships, or simply spread some joy, the art of thoughtful and purposeful gift giving is something that can truly make a difference in our work as coaches and consultants.Key Highlights:The Importance of Thoughtful Gifting As nonprofit consultants, we understand the significance of making meaningful connections. That's why we believe that thoughtful gifting can play an essential role in expressing gratitude and strengthening relationships with clients, partners, and staff.Gifting Strategies for Client Relationships When it comes to showing appreciation to clients, we've found that personalized and useful gifts can go a long way. Whether it's a hand-picked book, a personalized mug, or even a lunch treat on Giving Tuesday, the key is to consider the recipient's interests and preferences. We've also explored the idea of supporting indigenous artists and businesses by gifting items such as artist-designed adult coloring books and indigenous-made products, aligning our gestures with our values.Authenticity Over Branding During our conversation, we emphasized how the focus of gifting should be on the recipient rather than on branding or marketing opportunities. While branding has its place, it's crucial to ensure that the gifts we give reflect our values and what we stand for, resonating with the recipients on a personal level.Remember, it’s the thought and effort put into the gift that truly counts. Whether it’s a small token or a grand gesture, the intention behind the gift is what matters most. By showing genuine care and consideration, these heartfelt gestures can strengthen relationships and leave a lasting impression.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.comConnect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
17:4516/11/2023
Rest, Recovery, and Cold Calling with Dr. Asia Lyons
"Working for myself is a form of rest because I get to choose my clients and I don't have what I experienced in the workplace when I was working in the nonprofit sector, which is racial battle fatigue" - Dr. Asia LyonsThis week's episode of Confessions featured the amazing Dr. Asia Lyons, who shared her journey to building a thriving consulting business serving youth organizations. Dr. Asia's story is a reminder that we should never stop pushing boundaries or embracing new possibilities in our work. The only limits are the ones we place on ourselves!Key HIghlights:Niche down. Dr. Asia knew from the start that she wanted to support youth-serving orgs, and she built her entire business around serving that niche. Her advice? Get extremely clear on who you help and how. Niching down allows you to become an expert in your field and better serve your clients.Cold Outreach Strategy. Dr. Asia didn't wait around for new clients to come to her—she went out and found them. Even though cold outreach can be scary, Dr. Asia has developed a system that works for her. Her advice? Start small, learn as you go, and try new strategies. You'll get better and more comfortable over time.Entrepreneurship as Empowerment. Dr. Asia intentionally set up their own business to have control over their clients and avoid experiencing racial battle fatigue and racism-related stress that they previously encountered in the workplace. This choice to work for themselves gives them freedom to choose their projects and avoid oppressive environments.Breaking the burnout cycle. Dr. Asia recognizes that as business owners we need to make rest a priority. She makes sure to step away from work and recharge through self-care, community, and family. Being part of a mastermind and women's retreat allows her to connect with like-minded people who truly understand this work.The path of a nonprofit consultant isn't always easy, but Dr. Asia proves that with hard work, clarity, and self-care, you can build a thriving business that serves organizations doing important work. Her story is a reminder that we should never stop pushing boundaries in our work. The only limits are the ones we place on ourselves!Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Dr. Asia Lyons:Lyons Educational Consulting: https://www.lyonseducationalconsulting.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons The Exit Interview: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.comThe Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.comConnect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
42:4409/11/2023
The Truth About Scaling a Fractional CFO Business with Stephanie Skryzowski
"I think as business owners, or maybe just me personally, I like to go really fast. So slowing down to speed up is so painstakingly hard for me, but I know it's also necessary." - Stephanie SkryzowskiAs consultants and business owners, one of the biggest challenges we face is scaling our business in a sustainable way. A key part of scaling is building a team to support your growth. In this week's episode of The Confessions Podcast, we spoke with Stephanie Skryzowski, founder of 100 Degrees Consulting, about how she built her team to over 16 people. By delegating work to her team, Stephanie is able to step into her role as CEO and focus on strategy, culture, and business development. Building a team is challenging, but also rewarding. To hear more about how Stephanie scaled her business through building a team, listen to the full episode. You'll come away with actionable insights to start putting into practice in your own firm.Key Highlights: Prioritize your people. Stephanie believes that when her team can disconnect, they do higher quality work. So she offers generous PTO, limits work to 40 hours/week, and invests in her team’s wellbeing. This mindset has enabled 100 Degrees to scale in a healthy way.Don’t be afraid to change course. Stephanie made the bold choice to sell part of her business in order to refocus her efforts. While scary, it allowed her team to align around their purpose and opened up new opportunities for growth.Follow your vision. Stephanie built the business of her dreams by staying true to her purpose of empowering nonprofits to create change. Don’t cling to convention—you have the power to forge your own path.Be willing to let go of what is not working and make strategic decisions that will benefit the long-term success of your business.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Stephanie Skryzowski:100 Degrees Consulting: https://100degreesconsulting.com/Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/stephanieskryzowskiTwitter: https://twitter.com/Steph100DegreesConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
49:3302/11/2023
The Nonprofit Consultant's Unapologetic Guide to Selling and Scaling with Christina Tzavaras Edwards
"I'm selling unapologetically through the whole thing and that's something I've really had to work on and work towards." - Christina EdwardsJess and I just sat down with Christina Edwards for this episode that will light a fire under your consulting business. Christina has built a multiple six-figure nonprofit consulting firm over the last 15 years by unapologetically embracing abundance in all its forms. If you're ready to stop playing small in your business and start embracing abundance, listen to this episode. Christina will inspire you to claim what you're worth, follow your passion, and get comfortable with being different. The opportunities are endless if we have the courage to color outside the lines.Key Highlights: Sell unapologetically. Don't be afraid to talk about what you're selling and promote your offers often.Staying consistent with selling is the key to growth. If it turns some people off, so be it—your true people will appreciate the value.Find your sweet spot. Whether it's high-ticket or low-ticket, courses or one-on-one work, choose what lights you up and go all in. There's room for us all, so don't get caught up comparing yourself to what others are doing. Focus on what works for YOU.Build your list and turn up the volume. Email marketing has been essential for scaling my business, and the more you email, the more opportunities you will have to serve. Don't be afraid to be visible and share your message loudly and often. The right folks will tune in.Collaborate for growth. Look for partnerships with other consultants to get in front of new audiences. Make it easy for them by handling the details, and be generous with commissions and bonuses. Successful collaborations are a win-win.Keep learning and embracing your "weird." The path of a nonprofit consultant is one of constant evolution. Learn from those further along, but also trust your instincts. Your unique experiences and perspective are what allow you to serve in a way no one else can.Be unapologetic and confident in selling your products or services. It’s essential to have a belief in the value of what you are offering and to not shy away from promoting it to your audience. Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Christina Tzavaras Edwards:Splendid Consulting: www.splendidatl.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinatza/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCphQIax9fJdZ6t77EnPVp4AConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more info
41:5526/10/2023
Cindy and Jess - The Low Down On Our Investments
“Every investment I've made in my business has been a learning experience, even if it didn't bring the desired results. I see these investments as opportunities for growth and improvement.” - Cindy WagmanIn this episode, we're diving into how our investments in our businesses have evolved over the years—and the life-changing lessons we've learned along the way. Early on, we were hungry for any and all business advice we could get. We took all the courses, joined all the programs, and tried to model what the "experts" were teaching. But here's the truth: most of that just didn't align with our nonprofit audience or values. We learned that there are no shortcuts to finding what works for your unique business. These days, we invest in the things that really move the needle:Bringing on support so we can work less and earn more. We've hired contractors, built out our teams, and worked with coaches who get our sector. Referrals from our network. Finding service providers recommended by people we know and trust. Invest in the relationships and communities that truly understand you. These are the investments that pay off the most.Rest. This year, we both took extended breaks to renew our creativity. Coming back with fresh eyes is the best investment you can make. The bottom line? Don't be afraid to invest in yourself and your business. But make sure those investments align with where you are now and where you want to go. Find your people, focus on what lights you up, and don't be afraid to challenge the status quo.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.comConnect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
36:5819/10/2023
Unlock Your Charismatic Stage Presence with Lucia Cesaroni
“How we present is directly tied to how present we are. We can never be our most passionate, communicative, vulnerable, inspiring selves if we are in our own heads and doubting ourselves the whole time” - Lucia CesaroniIn this episode of the Confessions podcast, we chatted with Lucia Cesaroni, an opera singer, entrepreneur and self-styled evangelist for bringing business and the arts closer together. Lucia shared her journey of pivoting from a successful opera career to launching her own consulting firm focused on empowering corporate executives through performance skills training. Some of the biggest takeaways:Develop a growth mindset. Look for opportunities to apply your skills in new ways and don’t be afraid to push into uncharted territory. You never know what might stick!Focus on the “how,” not just the “what.” Lucia teaches performance skills to equip her clients with the tools they need to communicate with confidence and charisma. We spend so much time preparing the content of our work, but we often neglect how we show up to deliver it.Practice self-compassion. Even the most skilled performers don’t always execute perfectly. Learn from your experiences and then move on without judgment. Your worth isn’t defined by any single interaction or event.Find what fuels you. For Lucia, empowering others through her performance skills training lights her up. Look for work that ignites your passion, so you can show up fully for your clients and community.We hope Lucia’s story inspires you to embrace new possibilities in your own work. Keep pushing boundaries, follow your passions, and don’t be afraid to forge new paths. Abundance awaits! Let’s go get it.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Lucia Cesaroni:Cesaroni Consulting: https://www.cesaroniconsulting.com/Lucia Cesaroni (Website): http://luciacesaroni.com/Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/lucia-cesaroni-b4821051Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciasee/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LuciaCesaroniConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
53:5512/10/2023
Navigating Identity and Purpose in Nonprofit Leadership with Rowena Veylan
On this week’s Confessions podcast, we had an inspiring conversation with Rowena Veylan, founder of The New School of Fundraising. Rowena shared her journey to launching a nonprofit consulting business in the midst of COVID-19 and her vision for empowering community leaders through accessible education.Some of the biggest takeaways:Embrace possibility and abundance, even when times seem uncertain. Rowena started her business during the pandemic after seeing a gap she could fill. Focus on relationships, not transactions.Build a business model focused on impact, not profits alone. Rowena partners with funders to make her programs nearly barrier-free for nonprofits. Her “uncommon education for community crusaders” motto says it all.Forge your own path. Rowena didn’t wait for permission or the “right” circumstances. She sent hundreds of emails to get her first clients and learned perseverance pays off. Her story inspires us to create the life and business we want.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Rowena VeylanThe New School of Fundraising: https://nsof.ca/Mediate BC: https://www.mediatebc.com/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rowena-veylanConfessions with Jess and Cindy Podcast with Nneka Allen: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/episodes/nneka-allenConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/Audio: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ftXTkuYPuYn5qAtCEEskb5IdjfYi8NF8/view?usp=drive_link Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
49:2305/10/2023
The Costs and Rewards of Activism as a Business Owner with Olumide Akerewusi
"As much as I know the market has embraced AgentsC, I also believe that there are some organizations, because of the makeup of AgentsC and because of the activism of its founder and CEO, kind of make a choice not to work with or partner or invite us to support their work. But I also just celebrate those who have partnered with us and come to us and sought our help and expertise. And that's where I put the lens." - Olumide AkerewusiMide Akerewusi, founder of AgentsC, joined us for an inspiring conversation about courage, activism, and building a business with purpose. Mide shared his journey of stepping into his power as a vocal leader for equity and justice, despite facing discrimination and barriers as a Black business owner. Some of the biggest takeaways:Pursue your purpose. Mide started AgentsC to follow his calling for transformative change, even without a clear plan or safety net. Saying "yes" to your purpose will open up opportunities you can't yet imagine. Find your co-conspirators. Mide found strength in numbers by joining forces with others pushing for change. Seek out allies with a shared vision of justice and abundance. Together, you have the power to accomplish more than you ever could alone.Speak your truth. Mide acknowledged the costs of being a vocal activist, but said staying silent in the face of oppression is even more dangerous. Share your experiences to liberate yourself and educate others. Your voice matters.Keep learning and growing. Mide confessed that running a business is difficult, especially without role models or a template to follow. Approach each day with a willingness to experiment, make mistakes, and find the "right thing to do." Growth and progress, not perfection, should be the goal.At the end of the day, we all have a role to play in creating a just world where everyone can thrive. Mide's story is a reminder that when we embrace our purpose, use our voices, and support each other, we become an unstoppable force for positive change. The time for courage is now. How will you answer the call?Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Olumide AkerewusiAgentsC : https://www.agentsc.ca/Giving Black: https://www.givingblack.ca/Giving Black Podcast: https://www.givingblack.ca/the-giving-black-podcastMore information about AFP GTC and the experiences of Black Fundraisers: https://www.change.org/p/remove-afp-greater-toronto-chapter-s-10-star-status Confessions with Jess and Cindy Podcast with Nneka Allen: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/episodes/nneka-allenConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Host
47:0528/09/2023
From a $20k loss to a $1m year with Meredith Noble
“And it was the first time, too, that I felt like, oh, man, I thought I was an entrepreneur. I thought this was in my bones. Why can't I figure it out? ” - Meredith NobleMeredith Noble knows what it’s like to start from the ground up. On today’s episode of the podcast, she shares the ups and downs of growing Learn Grant Writing, from having her office literally explode to tripling her revenue by making a few key changes. Her story is inspiring and her advice is spot on for anyone looking to take their consulting business to the next level. Highlights:Navigate entrepreneurial challenges, gleaning wisdom from failures, and seeking mentorship for guidance.Don't be afraid to blow up your business model if it's not workingGrasp the concept of moving from budget-friendly to higher-end course models, accentuating your offer's value.Focus on your ideal customer and get your pricing right.Delve into dealing with challenges in entrepreneurship, extracting knowledge from failures, and finding guidance through mentors.Realize the importance of delegating tasks, hiring the right talents, and systemizing for an effective team collaboration.Discern the strategy of keeping a steady concentration while pursuing multifaceted interests to maintain progress.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Meredith Noble: Meredith Noble (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/meredith.noble/Learn Grant Writing (Website): https://www.learngrantwriting.org/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
48:2521/09/2023
Building a 7-figure subscription business with Amy Eisenstein
"I think, like everybody, there's always imposter syndrome, right? You know, this feeling of, am I really that good? Or am I as good as I pretend to be on TV?" - Amy EisensteinFor many nonprofit consultants, the temptation to diversify services is ever-present. This approach, although seemingly effective, can dilute one's specialty, leaving you wading through tasks that might not align with your core passion. If Amy Eisenstein's story sounds familiar, you know the challenge: offering myriad services but missing out on harnessing the true power of your expertise.Dive into Amy’s business evolution from Amy Eisenstein LLC to Capital Campaign Pro. Discover how she harnessed the power of niche specialization, and revolutionized her revenue stream by transitioning to a subscription model. If you're in the nonprofit consultancy realm, this episode is your guide to optimizing and refining your services. Listen to the full episode now and unearth the secrets to niche mastery in nonprofit consulting.Highlights:Building a successful nonprofit coaching or consulting business requires specializing in a niche and choosing clients that align with your expertise and interests.Creating a subscription model for services can help generate recurring revenue and provide ongoing support and guidance to clients.Onboarding new clients is crucial for their success, and it involves introducing them to the team, providing orientation to the program, and ensuring they have access to resources and support.Retention and engagement of clients can be achieved through regular check-ins, monitoring their participation, and offering personalized support and guidance.Growing an email list and utilizing email marketing strategies, such as providing valuable free resources and nurturing leads, can be an effective way to attract and convert ideal clients.Connect with Amy:Website: https://capitalcampaignpro.com/For Nonprofit Consultants: https://capitalcampaignpro.com/toolkit-for-consultants/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
41:5514/09/2023
Incorporating a course into your business with Danielle Gines
In this episode of the Confessions podcast, we have Danielle Gines, the founder of DG Consulting. Danielle specializes in curriculum development and design, instructional design, English language learners, adult learners, nonprofit management, and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Danielle discusses the challenges and fears she faced when choosing a niche for her business. She also explains the various services she offers, including curriculum development, curriculum revision, course mapping, audits, and learning management systems. Danielle provides insights into her pricing structure and how she receives payment for her services.Highlights:The importance of understanding adult learning and designing courses that focus on behavior change and real-life impact.Collaboration and networking with other consultants has been instrumental in growing her business and attracting clients.A suggestion for consultants is to prioritize the three P's: presentation, practice, and production, in order to develop interactive and impactful learning opportunities.An important reminder for consultants is to embrace their worries and imposter syndrome, as it often signifies a dedication to self-improvement and a learner-centric mindset.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Danielle Gines:Danielle Gines (Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-gines1DG Consultancy (Website): https://dgconsultancy.us/Email: [email protected] with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:1907/09/2023
Confessions from the Car: Reflections on our Mastermind
"Let go of what's not working. Let go of the things that are keeping you and preventing you from saying yes and go all in with your heart and your brain and just do great things." - Cindy WagmanJoin Cindy, Jess, Rhea, and Brooke as they discuss the power and impact of their mastermind in this episode of the Confessions podcast. They share their experiences and insights from their biannual in-person meetings, highlighting the transformative nature of these gatherings. The group emphasizes the importance of trust, vulnerability, and mutual admiration in creating a supportive and empowering environment. They also discuss the value of investing in oneself and the power of collaboration and resource sharing. Tune in to learn how this mastermind group has helped them level up their businesses and achieve their goals.Highlights:Trust and vulnerability are crucial in a successful mastermind group, where open communication and honest feedback from peers are essential for growth.Investing in oneself and one's business is crucial, with the group members recognizing the need for time, resources, and money to elevate their businesses and achieve their goals.The mastermind's success was due to the group's mutual admiration and respect, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.The mastermind group members support each other by sharing resources and knowledge to help each other in their businesses.The mastermind group emphasized the value of camaraderie, celebration, and support in their business journey.Connect with Brooke:Newsletter: richiebabbage.com/leadershipforward321Podcast: Nonprofit Mastermind PodcastWebsite: https://brookerichiebabbage.com/Connect with Rhea Wong: Website: https://www.rheawong.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheawong/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-lowdown/id1436858854Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:1731/08/2023
Let's talk RFPs (a rant) - confessions from ICON
“A majority of what secures you the proposal or the winning bid is your relationship to that organization.” - Cindy WagmanIn this eye-opening episode, we dive headfirst into the world of Request for Proposals (RFPs) within the nonprofit consulting industry. We’ll delve deeper into the pros and cons of RFPs for nonprofit consultants and share our personal experiences and offer some valuable advice for those who choose to pursue them. From building relationships to customizing proposals, we’ll reveal the secrets to standing out in a sea of RFPs (and when you should just ignore them). Join us as we explore the intriguing dynamics of RFPs and the unique challenges they present Highlights:RFPs and standardized responsesThe pros and cons of RFPsWhat to include on a proposalThe challenges and benefits of responding to RFPsThe power of personalizationFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
14:0424/08/2023
YOU get to choose who you work with - confessions from ICON
“Follow your gut. If it's not so bad, but you're just like I'm not interested, double your prices and see what they say.” - Cindy WagmanIn today's episode, we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new format for the show. We will delve into the common struggle of choosing clients and openly share our own experiences of dealing with difficult clients. From setting boundaries to raising prices, we offer valuable insights on how to navigate the tricky world of client selection. Plus, we’ll reveal a clever strategy for attracting the right clients through case studies. Highlights:Pick clients that align with your values and work styleSetting boundaries and be selective about who you work withDon't undervalue your services out of fear or scarcity mindsetSeek support and advice from trusted peers or mentors to help you navigate client selection and pricing decisionsFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
18:0417/08/2023
Rocking the boat 14 years in, with Jarrett Ransom
“I pride myself on being a disruptor. So like, how can we talk about things differently that aren't or haven't been talked about in the sector? That's not what I was comfortable with when I started my business 14 years ago. I was born in Georgia, raised in South Carolina, like conservative roots, pearl necklaces, right? Where it was like, oh, no, no, no, you just need to like, don't rock the boat. And I'm rocking the fucking boat, Like where's the boat? I want to rock it. And so really like stepping out and into myself over the last 14 years, like publicly speaking about what I believe in. - Jarrett RansomHighlights:Embrace Your Worth: Jarrett's journey started at $40/hour and now she has ascended to strategic planning rates that have doubled over time. This increase didn't lead to raised eyebrows among her clients either. Isn’t it heartening to see how respect for your skills goes hand-in-hand with the pricing it calls for?Become Your Best Investment: Jarrett recognized her growth potential and gave herself the gift of a high-ticket coach. Surrounding yourself with people who've reached where you aim to be, could be your game-changer. Be inspired to invest in yourself!Mindset Matters: Uplifting your business begins with uplifting your mindset. Jarrett emphasizes the necessity of freedom from scarcity thinking and adopting an abundance and prosperity mindset. Remember, your mindset towards money shapes your business.Systems for Success: How about 'working less and making more'? Jarrett simplifies her day-to-day workload by delegating tasks to her VA team, which frees her to focus on higher objectives. Building feasible systems and processes can be your key to this.Consistency Pays: Jarrett's committed endeavors in hosting a daily live show have borne fruits in building her reputation and online presence. The myth of overnight success is debunked here. Let's pledge to be persistent!The Art of Releasing: Want to reach newer heights? Learn to let go! Jarrett made a decisive move away from long-term interim work to concentrate on her fresh program for nonprofit consultants. Recognize when to say 'no'.Speak for Your Work: Jarrett makes it a point to advertise her availability for new projects on LinkedIn. An essential and direct reminder - people can only hire you when they are aware that you are open to work!Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Jarrett Ransom:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jrransomThe Rayvan Group: therayvangroup.comNonprofit Nerd School: nonprofitnerdschool.comConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
41:4410/08/2023
What do your clients want you to know?
Get ready for a power-packed panel discussion that will leave you inspired and motivated! In this episode of the Confessions Podcast, we've gathered three extraordinary nonprofit leaders who are here to share their wisdom and experiences of what it’s like for your clients. Join Jehan Seirafi, the visionary force behind Sunsar Maya, Sara Miller, the fearless advocate for organ donation through SODA National, and Cassy Horton, the superhero championing the cause for children of cancer patients with Pickles Group. Their unique experiences and practical wisdom will shed light on their expectations and preferences when it comes to working with consultants like you! Highlights:How do nonprofits identify suitable consultants?Understanding the approval process within nonprofits for hiring consultants.The role of professional development in nonprofit-consultant relationships.Highlighting what nonprofits value most about working with consultants.One crucial insight nonprofits wish all consultants knew about collaborating with their organizations.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Jehan Seirafi:LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jehanseirafiConnect with Cassy Horton:LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/cassyhortonConnect with Sara Miller:LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/sara-miller-1398719aConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:05:4702/08/2023
Value based pricing with Regina Alhassan
Say goodbye to traditional pricing models and hello to value-based pricing. But what exactly does that mean? In this episode of the Confessions Podcast, we are joined by Regina Alhassan, founder of ResearchPRO, a prospect development coaching and consulting firm. With years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Regina has mastered the art of value-based pricing to help organizations not only meet but exceed their financial goals. Hear her thoughts on delivering value, prospect development, and maintaining authenticity in relationships.Highlights:The secrets behind working effectively with high-value, six-figure clients.Art of value-based pricingRegina’s journey on evolving her business model from small-scale projects to long-term retainers and a one-to-many model.How to prospect clients in the nonprofit sector and build authentic relationships.Developing and pricing premium programs and services Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Regina Alhassan:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reginaalhassanThe ResearchPRO: https://theresearchpro.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:1527/07/2023
Building your dream team with LaTresse Snead
Get yourself prepared for an awe-inspiring conversation in this episode of the Confessions Podcast as we sit down with the extraordinary LaTresse Snead, founder of Bonsai Leadership Group. She runs a boutique consulting firm that helps nonprofit organizations in the environmental sector with executive coaching, recruiting, and consulting services. LaTresse reveals how she added a personal brand to her business and how she prices her services based on the value she brings to her clients. She also shared how she built her dream team by finding coaches and experts to supplement her own skills and the undeniable significance of having a coach in your corner. So, grab your trusty pen and paper, because LaTresse is about to unleash a mind-blowing knowledge storm.Highlights:Overview of Bonsai's core services Finding right people to work with How to cultivate a strong referral network Relationships as fundamental business strength The importance of delegating tasksMentorship and coaching Business Memoir: When Black Women RiseFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with LaTresse Snead:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latressesneadWebsite: https://www.bonsaileadershipgroup.com/Book: https://www.latressesnead.com/about-bookConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
42:0920/07/2023
Breaking the Mold: Chad Barger’s Non-Traditional Fundraising Consulting Business
Get ready to hear some juicy confessions on this episode of the Confessions Podcast as we sit down with Chad Barger, a fundraising consultant who's decided to keep his business a one-man show. Chad shared his secrets to work-life balance, including how he manages to take intentional time off and keep his workload under control. He also dishes on the challenges of growth and staying focused and giving out his killer advice for fellow consultants on how to build a business that doesn't make them want to pull their hair out. If you're a consultant looking to tune out the noise of what you "should" be doing and build a unique and quirky business that stands out, then you won't want to miss this episode.Highlights:How to navigate the transition from freelancer to a business of oneChad’s strategic growth as a solopreneurThe importance of taking intentional time off and prioritizing work-life harmonyLeveraging speaking and webinars Building a business you enjoyFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Chad Barger: Chad Barger (Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbargerChad Barger (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/fundraiserchad/?hl=enProductive Fundraising (Website): https://productivefundraising.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:5313/07/2023
Fundraising, Bubble Baths, and Everything in Between: Lacey Kempinski on Finding Balance
Get ready to be inspired by the latest episode of the Confessions Podcast featuring Lacey Kempinski, founder of the Balanced Good. Lacey shares her inspiring journey of pivoting from a career in fundraising plans to creating a new and innovative service in nonprofit sector. Through persistence, faith, and leveraging her relationships. Join us as we delve into Lacey's story and discover how she found her calling in helping organizations navigate the complexities of parental leave.Highlights:How Lacey started in consulting Balanced Good’s unique offer and service A fundraiser’s approach to creating her own marketing strategyBuilding relationships and growing her network Lacey as a leader in her own consulting businessFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Lacey Kempinski: Lacey Kempinski (Linkedin): https://ca.linkedin.com/in/laceykempinskiBalanced Good (Website): https://balancedgood.com/Balanced Good (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/balancedgood/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:4706/07/2023
Attraction-based marketing with Racheli Edelkopf
In this episode of the Confessions Podcast, we sat down with Racheli Edelkopf, the mastermind behind Pedal Marketing - a consulting biz that helps nonprofits up their marketing game. Racheli talked about her journey as a program director and how that led her to start her own business. Racheli has valuable insights into the realm of marketing and specifically attraction-based marketing, which is the approach she has taken to build her business.Highlights:Racheli's transition from the nonprofit sector into marketing consultancyAttraction-based marketing strategiesThe balance of working on your business vs. in your businessHow to leverage your strengths and find a marketing strategy that suits your abilities and business style.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Racheli Edelkopf:Pedal Marketing: https://www.thepedal.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepedal.co/?hl=enLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/racheli-edelkopf-0484a81a3Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/Audio link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cHfhQq7P_jeyilCXSG-kQ3WN27FuAYcS?usp=drive_link Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
45:5929/06/2023
Behind the scenes of Cindy’s first 6-figure launch
Ever wonder what it really takes to launch a successful product or program? How do you transition from a safe, small-scale launch to a full-on, all-in launch? Join us in this episode as Cindy spills all the details about her super successful launch of the Fractional Fundraiser Academy. You'll hear about the nitty-gritty details, the numbers, and the journey from conceptualizing to creating and eventually launching a comprehensive program. It's going to be a deep-dive case study filled with valuable insights and lessons.Highlights:Cindy's journey of developing and launching Fractional Fundraiser Academy The most effective opt-in strategies for the launchThe launch results and ROIInsights and advice on playing big in launching your programFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Join The Fractional Fundraiser Waitlist: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/waitlistConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
49:2922/06/2023
Affiliate marketing 101 with Jess and Cindy
"I think that people who maybe have the best intentions of being an affiliate and then don't end up doing it well is because they don't treat it like a launch the way they would launch their own product."Looking for insider knowledge on affiliate marketing? In this episode, we’re giving you the inside scoop on the art and business of affiliate marketing. We're debunking myths, sharing insights, and guiding you through every step to make the most out of your affiliate relationships. Whether you're considering becoming an affiliate or looking to incorporate affiliates into your marketing strategy, this episode is a must-listen!Highlights:Understanding affiliate relationshipsThe importance of audience alignment Commission structuresLeveraging affiliate marketing for product launchesHow to keep affiliates engaged for successFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
30:0615/06/2023
Building an agency with Mike Duerksen
“Nobody's ever gonna do it the way that you would do it, and that's okay. So you just have to find people who know 60% of what you know, you teach them 20% to 30% and you have to be okay with 80% to 90%. And it won't be 100% the way you would define 100%, but it'll be 80%, 90%. And for most people that you're gonna help, for most clients, that is already 200% better than they would do on their own. So don't get hung up on it.” - Mike DuerksenIn this episode of The Confessions we sit down with Mike Duerksen, the mastermind behind the fundraising agency BuildGood. Mike takes us along his journey of going from solopreneur to head of a growing agency. With his in-depth insights and real-life experiences, Mike provides a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of transitioning into the role of an agency leader.Highlights:From solopreneur to agency owner An inside look into the operation and pricing model of an agencyInsight to managing a team How Mike uses a demand generation approach in marketing The significance of a positive mindset towards investment and risk. Creating a family mission and aligning it with your business goalsFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Mike Duerksen: Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/mikeduerksenWebsite: http://mikeduerksen.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
45:5808/06/2023
Legal Tips for Nonprofit Coaching and Consulting with Adrienne Ng
"I think one of the first triggers to where you need to turn your mind to, maybe you need some legal advice or legal help or a system, and this isn't necessarily something you need to go to a lawyer for but it's something that you should turn your mind to because there are legal ramifications, and it's the idea of contracts."Do you wonder if you're overlooking vital legal aspects of your business? Is the thought of hiring a lawyer daunting to you, especially if you're in the early stages of your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode, we sit down with Adrienne, a seasoned lawyer and the founder of Open LLP, a boutique law firm specializing in helping startups, and entrepreneurs. Adrienne shares her wealth of knowledge to provide some guidance on navigating the legal landscape of your business.Highlights:Identifying the legal questions every small business owner should be askingUnderstanding the importance and role of contracts in your business.Distinguishing between templated contracts and custom-made ones, and knowing when to use each.Why it's crucial to have Intellectual Property assignment clauses in your contractsThe concept of 'Common Law Trademark Rights' and how it affects your businessWhen it's time to consider formally applying for a trademark registrationFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Adrienne Ng:Open LLP : https://www.openllp.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/open.llp/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
43:3601/06/2023
Self-discovery and alignment in your business with Clay Buck
"Don't network to network, network to learn, network to meet, network to engage because one thing I have learned is everyone in this sector is so open and so willing and wants to share and encourage and love and support and talk like there's no reason.” - Clay BuckSelf-discovery and alignment in your business with Clay BuckIn this episode of the Confessions Podcast, we have a heart-to-heart with Clay Buck, the brain behind TCB Fundraising. With over three decades of experience in fundraising, communications, and marketing, Clay has helped countless organizations build sustainable relationships and revenue. We dive deep into the essence of the consulting business, emphasizing the importance of community. Our conversation ranges from the dynamics of sharing knowledge and resources to fostering mutual respect and collaboration. Clay, underlines the vital role everyone plays in the sector, with an emphasis on promoting generosity and kindness.Highlights:Lay’s journey of self-discovery through transitionsCreating community in consultingNurturing genuine connectionsRipple effect of generosity and gratitude in businessRole of mentors and fellow consultantsFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Clay Buck: TCB Fundraising: https://tcbfundraising.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TClayBuck/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
49:4925/05/2023
Playing big with Cindy and Jess (our reflections on AFP ICON)
"Having an intention behind what it is you're putting any effort, energy and money towards is critical."In this episode of the Confessions Podcast, we will spill the beans of our experience at the Association of Fundraising Professionals International Conference (AFP ICON) in New Orleans. We went there with a mission: to create space for consultants! We dive into all of our reflections and learnings. But the real gem of this episode is our reflection on the importance of having clear intentions when attending conferences. It's not just about collecting business cards and free swag (which honestly isn’t all that good). It's about seizing opportunities to connect with people and build relationships. So, next time you attend a conference, don't just wing it. Have a game plan and make the most out of it. You never know who you might meet or what you might learn.Highlights:Having a clear intention when attending professional development opportunities.The value of going big and standing out when creating a conference booth, as it can attract the right audience and lead to meaningful conversations.Attending conferences is not just about networking and standing out. It's also an opportunity to connect with people and build relationships.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35:5218/05/2023
The Power of Diversifying Income with Holly Rustick
“ I could have stopped and walked away and said, you know what, it didn't work. And I had this support and it didn't happen. And that's about me. And only sold four class, all of the things, right? But I kept going. It was like, no, I still believe in this. And I had to get myself to that energy to then get to where I am now. “- Holly RustickAre you curious to know how to grow your business with diversified income streams and turn your services into passive income? Then you should listen to this episode featuring Holly Rustick, who runs a grant writing and funding business with a multi-pronged model. Holly explains how she transitioned from an agency doing grant writing services for nonprofits to a business owner who makes passive income.Highlights:Holly's experience with diversifying her streams of incomeTips on how to grow your email list, gain social media followers, and show up as a thought leader in your field.How to let go of what no longer serves your business and focus on what truly mattersHow to reframe pain points and focus on problem-solving in your sales processThe value of tracking your time, money, and joy to make informed decisions for your business growthConnect with Holly Rustick: Linkedin: https://gu.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817Grant Writing & Funding: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyrustick/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/grantwritingFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
41:2811/05/2023
Finding purpose and impact with Christal Cherry
“You just have to decide how long am I going to be a hamster on this wheel and when am I going to stop the wheel and say I want to do meaningful work that really means something to somebody that people are learning and they're growing and they're changed because of the work that you're doing.” - Christal CherryDo you ever feel trapped in a never-ending grind in your business and wonder how you can break the cycle? Christal Cherry, founder of The Board Pro, joins us today to share her journey from being a burned-out fundraiser to a thriving and empowered consultant. Christal shares how you could break free from the hamster wheel and do meaningful work in your business. Highlights:Christal's fundraising journey and how she discovered her passion for board consultingThe process and pricing of Christal's board recruitment servicesHow to manage client flow in a consultancy businessStanding your ground and staying true to your values in your workGrowing your email list with intention Making profit and creating impact with consulting Connect with Christal Cherry: The Board Pro: https://www.theboardpro.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945049056Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christal-m-cherry/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
41:5204/05/2023
Profit First with Jayne Dykstra
“One of my big things is that I hate lazy money. And so giving your money a job, knowing exactly what it's for is really beneficial.” - Jayne DykstraAre you struggling with cash flow in your business? Do you have trouble making your money work for you and paying yourself and your bills? In this episode of Confessions with Jess and Cindy Podcast, we speak with Jayne Dykstra, the founder and CEO of Zetique, about the value of keeping track of your financial situation in a meaningful way.Highlights:The value of keeping track of your financial situation The simple and effective system based on Profit FirstHow this system works for businesses with variable incomeTips for overcoming the initial hurdle of setting up the systemOutsourcing your bookkeepingThe difference between working with bookkeeper and accountantConnect with Jayne Dykstra: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayne-dykstra-1965a3123Zetique: https://zetique.com/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership: https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
36:5727/04/2023
Business Evolution with Sheleia Phillips
“So just allow the process to be the process. Take it easy on yourself and don't overthink it. Just do what you do best. As long as you do good and you have pure intentions, like the revenue, the clients, the good things, the opportunities will find you. I don't have to stress out on trying to find it. “ - Sheleia PhillipsOur guest for today's episode is Sheleia Phillips, the brains behind SMP Nonprofit Consulting and a former biologist turned grant writing coach. Since its inception, she has expanded from a part-time to a full-time endeavor, and now she runs group coaching programs. Get the inspiration and knowledge you need to learn about and succeed in the competitive world of grant writing.Highlights:Sheleia’s journey from being a biologist to a grant writer and eventually a full-time grant writing coachThe importance of finding your community, networking, and learning from mentorsHow she started her side hustle and took the leap to go full timeHer savvy use of social media to expand her networkFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Sheleia Philips: Website: https://www.smpnpc.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheleia-phillips-mph-ches-a9901a108Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
51:0320/04/2023
Behind the scenes of the Fractional Fundraiser Academy with Maria and Katy
“I find that fluidity is where I find joy and where I am my most productive. And by fluidity, I mean some days, I might be at my desk from eight till six. And other days, I might be at my desk from 10 till noon. “ - Katy Pedersen Behind the scenes of the Fractional Fundraiser Academy with Maria and Katy In this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes with Maria and Katy, members of the Fractional Fundraiser Academy. Listen in as they share their journeys, reveal how they've overcome entrepreneurial challenges, achieved freedom and flexibility, and discuss the invaluable support they've found within the Academy. Get ready to be inspired and learn how you, too, can thrive in the world of fractional fundraising!Highlights:1. What fractional fundraising is and how it benefits nonprofits and fundraisers 2. How fractional fundraising has transformed Maria and Katy's lives personally and professionally3. Challenges of being your own boss and how to overcome them 4. The value of fractional fundraising community5. Advice for those who want to become fractional fundraisersFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
40:3613/04/2023
Your first look at the Fractional Fundraiser Academy
"It's designed to really make it, less risky, more comfortable, and safer for people to take that step towards achieving their goals and creating the income and freedom they set out to create from day one."- Cindy WagmanIn this episode,we’re going to dive into the Fractional Fundraiser Academy, a training program that empowers you to set-up, launch, and succeed as a fractional fundraiser. Discover how this program helps you set up your business, find clients, deliver results, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.Highlights:An overview of the Fractional Fundraiser AcademyThe 4-phase structure of the program: Prepare, Propose, Produce, Play Support and accountability for fractional fundraisers communityThe investment for joining the Fractional Fundraiser AcademyIf you are interested to be a Fractional Fundraiser, apply for the Fractional Fundraising Academy now at thegoodpartnership.com/ffa Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:0706/04/2023
Boundaries and rest with Kamilah Martin
“And I wish more people were like me. I wish more people would just give themselves a break and know that it's okay to screw up because other people learn from that. And again, there's value, I think, in seeing how you respond to the screw ups.” - Kamilah MartinIn this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Kamilah Martin, the founder and CEO of Katalyst, who shared her valuable insights and experience as an interim executive director for nonprofits. Kamilah revealed some practical tips on how she manages to balance her workload while prioritizing rest and self-care, and how she sets boundaries with her clients to avoid burnout. Highlights:The power of REST Master the art of LinkedIn outreach with Kamilah's strategies Balancing work with rest and other passionsKamilah’s 60-40 rule to manage her business and work with clientsSetting boundaries with clients and maintaining healthy working relationshipsOrganic growth approach to community-building for nonprofitsEmbracing vulnerabilityConnect with Kamilah Martin:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilah-martin-67673b8Website: https://www.katalystconsult.com/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:2430/03/2023
Pitch perfect - getting on podcasts with Angie Trueblood
“So it really is the topic. It's sadly, far less about the person and the accomplishments, the experiences, the biography of who is getting pitched, and more about how relevant that topic is to the host audience and how aligned it is with the type of content that they create and produce.” – Angie TruebloodIn this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Angie Trueblood of the Podwize Group to discuss the art of pitching yourself to podcasts. With her entrepreneurial spirit, innovative thinking, and super-connector powers, Angie deeply supports business owners who use podcasts as a core tenet of their business growth. Her passion for normalizing the voices of women in leadership positions shines through in her work. Whether you're a nonprofit pro, consultant, or coach, this episode will give you the inside scoop on the long-tail impact of being a podcast guest and how you can maximize the opportunity.How to strategically determine why being featured on a podcast is important for your businessThe power of podcast guesting for authority building and lead generationThe dos and don'ts of pitching yourself to a podcast, including how to personalize your pitch and the best way to reach outReal-life examples of good and bad pitches and how to make yours stand outNurturing relationships with the podcast host and their audienceConnect with Angie Trueblood:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angietruebloodWebsite: https://thepodwizegroup.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepodwizegroup/?hl=enPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/go-pitch-yourself/id1480391075Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:5423/03/2023
Balancing in-house and consulting work with Julie Ordoñez
"The real win is who I'm becoming, that I'm becoming a more resilient person, that I am becoming someone who is more courageous, more kind. I'm learning perseverance in a real way. I'm learning staying power. Can you just stay? Can you just keep going? That's what entrepreneurship is, right ?" – Julie OrdoñezIn this podcast episode, we’re joined by Julie Ordoñez, a major gifts strategist and coach. She is also the founder of CourageLab, a 6-week accelerator where ambitious nonprofit leaders get the courage to ask for more and raise major gifts. Julie walks us through her personal journey of building her own business (as a side hustle), her strategies to attract ideal clients, her own struggles and challenges in growing her business and how she overcomes them. Tune in now to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey!Highlights:Julie’s personal journey on transitioning her fundraising skills to the business worldThe importance of investing in business and marketing strategiesMoney mindset on fundraising vs businessAttracting the right clients and letting people go in your businessDeveloping courage and resilience in entrepreneurshipConnect with Julie Ordoñez: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieordonezWebsite: https://julieordonez.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliemordonez/?hl=enTwitter: https://twitter.com/juliemordonezCourage Lab : https://www.couragelab.co/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
50:1416/03/2023
Making your own rules with Nneka Allen
“I make all my decisions through the lens of my values. My values are love and justice.” – Nneka AllenJoin us as we chat with Nneka Allen, the founder of The Empathy Agency, a business that is aligned with her values - love and justice. Nneka dives into the complexities of the historical relationship between African and Indigenous peoples and how it informs her work to create belonging spaces where everyone can feel they belong. Tune in as she discusses her approach to coaching, training, consulting, and education to achieve her mission.Highlights:Creating belonging spaces for racial justice through coaching, training, consulting, and speakingDetermining client fees through the lens of love and justiceHow Nneka's clients find her through word of mouth, teaching, and her intentional online presenceCollecting Courage, an anthology about Black fundraisers, is more than just a book, it's a movementConnect with Nneka Allen:Website (The Empathy Agency): https://theempathyagency.ca/who-i-amInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nnekaallen/?hl=enWebsite (Collecting Courage): https://www.collectingcourage.org/meet-the-authors/nneka-allenLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-empathy-agencyFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
43:2509/03/2023
There is an ROI to living your values with Nikki Bell and Simon Scriver
Nikki Bell and Simon Scriver are the co-founders of Fundraising Everywhere, an online training and support community for fundraisers. Through their hard work and dedication, Nikki and Simon were able to provide their staff with pay rises and other benefits, and introduce new methods to make their events and conferences more accessible.Highlights:How Nikki Bell and Simon Scriver started Fundraising Everywhere and their journey to successThe ROI of making values-based decisions and how they incorporate values into day-to-day operations Growing an affordable and accessible online community Bridging the digital gap for nonprofits through their own virtual event platform: Everywhere+ Generating leads with different business models and strategiesConnect with Nikki Bell and Simon Scriver :Website: https://www.fundraisingeverywhere.com/Fundraising Everywhere (Twitter): https://twitter.com/FundEverywhereNikki Bell (Linkedin): https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nikki-bellSimon Scriver (Linkedin): https://ie.linkedin.com/in/simonscriverFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
58:0802/03/2023
A $35,000 from a 400 person email list with Eman Ismail
You’ve heard us talk about the value of having an email list, well, today we’re diving all in.In this episode of The Confessions Podcast, we are joined by Eman Ismail, an email strategist and copywriter who started with a small email list of 400 people and was able to make $35,000 from her launch. Eman now helps online business owners and ecommerce brands make money through email and encourages them to nurture their email lists.Highlights:Transition from working for charity to for profit business ownerThe value of having a quality email list How to nurture your email list The anatomy of an effective emailFinding your creative flow when writingHow to get people in your email listBuilding a solid email list by learning the importance of subject lines, preview text, and images in emails Connect with Eman Ismail :Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/eman-i307Website: https://emancopyco.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emancopyco/Twitter: https://twitter.com/emancopycoPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/mistakes-that-made-me/id1635998876Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:2223/02/2023
Working together for over 20 years with Jen Love and John Lepp
"This is a long game. Everything in life, every relationship we have with our best friends is a long game. If you try to turn to your short game, you just cannot win. And unless you're capable of investing in the long game and yes, looking for quick wins, I just don't think you can have a very successful long business life." - John LeppJen Love and John Lepp are the founders and strategic leads of Agents of Good, a strategic and storytelling firm that supports nonprofits in telling better stories and connecting with donors. They are passionate about helping organizations of all shapes and sizes unlock their donors' giving and creativity.Highlights:The power of strategic thinking and partnership in business successHow to find a balance between passion and practicalityPlaying the long game in business Making wellness a priority Connect with Jen Love and John Lepp :Website :https://agentsofgood.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnlepphttps://twitter.com/agentsofgoodNew Book by John Lepp: Creative DeviationsFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
45:2716/02/2023
Premium products with DeaRonda Harrison
“If you have great structure and systems in place and your pricing is right, you can do this while you're at your nine to five. The goal is to replace your income, not feel burned out, and not do all those things”DeaRonda Harrison is a grant writing expert and coach, helping nonprofits train up their grant writers and start or scale their own consulting businesses. She is the founder of June 1 Firm, providing high quality services and achieving impressive ROI for her clients.Highlights:Strategy on evolving her pricing and service model How to attract quality clients with a premium offerPositioning yourself as an expert Leveraging LinkedIn to attract premium clients Connect with DeaRonda:Website: https://junefirstfirm.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dearondaharrison Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
51:3909/02/2023
Speaking on stages with Julia Campbell
“I've been speaking for about 10 years. You know, I'm not a newbie at it. I think just being really clear about your boundaries and what you'll accept and not accept.’ – Julia CampbellJulia Campbell is an OG nonprofit consultant and social media teaching maven. She has been in the nonprofit sector for over 13 years, and now works with clients one-on-one, speaks on stages, and runs online courses to empower nonprofit coaches and consultants. In this episode, Julia walks us through how she has built her own speaking business and shares her top tips on how you can leverage it for your own consulting business. Highlights:Pricing, negotiating and setting boundaries in your business How to grow your speaking business like a pro Business advise and resolutions for 2023 Connect with Julia:Podcast: Nonprofit NationEmail: [email protected] Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
48:0702/02/2023
Strategy sesh with Brooke Richie-Babbage
"It takes a lot of time and having an accountability partner or just somebody to be on that journey with you to remind you that you're not doing it wrong." - Brooke Richie-BabbageNavigating the 'Fun Hard' of scaling a business, Brooke Richie-Babbage, CEO of Bending Art, is on a mission to empower nonprofit coaches and consultants to make the power moves that bring them the income and freedom they desire, uncovering secrets and no-longer gatekeeping strategy.Highlights:Shifting business models to scaleSetting business systems and goals Exploring Brooke Richie-Babbage's strategic thought process when scaling her business.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/Connect with Brooke:Newsletter: richiebabbage.com/leadershipforward321Podcast: Nonprofit Mastermind PodcastWebsite: https://brookerichiebabbage.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:1426/01/2023
Sales as service with Erin Lindstrom
"When I shifted my approach to sales to be of service, it allowed me to have more open, transparent, and honest conversations - it doesn't feel like a zero-sum game where you're fighting for the most your client can give you, and they're fighting for getting the least, the lowest price for the most amount of work. It feels like you're on the same team." - Erin Lindstrom Let us all grow our businesses holistically, combining strategy, mindset, and healing with Erin Lindstrom, a sales strategist and dynamic coach who has been in the online business world for 10 years.Highlights:Uncovering the secrets to successful nonprofit consulting and coaching businessesExploring how to approach sales as a serviceExamining the holistic approach to sales strategy and mindset.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/Connect with Erin:Website: https://www.erinlindstrom.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinlindstrom/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-lindstrom-80176020 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
44:3019/01/2023
VIP days 101 with Jordan Gill
"Time is so precious. Money as a renewable resource, time is not. And so there's always going to be a segment of every audience in every industry that is always looking for the fastest way to get something done.” - Jordan GillToday, in this episode, we are joined by a very important person who has been teaching and coaching thousands of people on VIP days for the past two and a half years, Jordan Gill! She is the founder of System Save Me, a business that helps coaches and consultants build successful six-figure businesses through VIP day offerings. Highlights:What is a VIP Day or Week, and how can it help you start or scale your nonprofit coaching or consulting businessWhat are some examples of successful VIP Day offers that have been used by Jordan Gill and her studentsHow can you leverage VIP Days to create a more efficient customer experienceConnect with Jordan:Website: https://systemssavedme.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/systemssavedme/Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:1912/01/2023
Working on your business vs. in your business with Jess and Cindy
“It is just as important, if not more important to work on your business than just doing that outward facing client work, to have the space and ability to build, reevaluate and think and dream.” - Jess CampbellIn today’s episode, we talked about why working ON your business is just as important in working IN your business. Highlights:Jess and Cindy’s systems working on their businessDetermining the appropriate framework for working on your businessKnowing the nice to haves vs. critical part of your businessMaking decisions, planning and executing goals Avoiding mental burnout while working in and on your business.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:4205/01/2023
Investing in yourself—hear from our guests
“Letting go of things that don't serve you is as important as investing in the things that will serve you.” - Cindy Wagman Investing in yourself—hear from our guestsWhen it comes to investments, one of the best you can make is in yourself! In this roundup episode, we gathered inspirational insights from our number of guests and shared their personal journeys of success and revealing their secrets on business growth. Highlights:Importance of investing in yourself to be mentally strong and resilient in your business, and to focus on consistency and accountability. How can investing in mentors, coaches, and therapy help business owners become their most healthy and successful selves?Why it’s okay to release things that no longer excites or serve you.Finding a mentor or a coach to help you become accountable, grow and develop your businessTaking time for yourself, your mental health and working on personal growthHow to take workationsFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
17:5929/12/2022
2023 predictions—hear from our guests
“Very often we buy into other people’s dreams with our business and so now is a good opportunity to actually step back and say, ‘What is it that I want?’” - Cindy Wagman2023 predictions—hear from our guestsWe’ve had insightful conversations with our amazing guests this year. And that’s why for this episode, we’ve invited them back for the podcast’s first-ever roundup episode. Our guests talk about what they are expecting in the nonprofit consulting and coaching space in the next year. One thing’s for sure, there are so many things to look forward to!Highlights:Taking a step back to reflect on what we truly want in our businessLooking at the trends and movements in the nonprofit sector retrospectivelyThe possible shifting back from online and digital to physical and face-to-face eventsHow you can stand out and become successful by helping nonprofits do their missionMoving from online to smaller, more personal eventsAlignment of identity and missionResilience through the recessionLearning to adapt and thrive after the great resignationFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12:2322/12/2022
It's okay to be multi-passionate with Betty Xie
"One thing that I always felt like almost like, formal about is like, people always say, “Well, you got to focus better.” You hear that in everything that you hear that in the arts, especially, it's like you got to give it all to this one path.” - Betty XieOften the business advice we hear is: focus. Do one thing and do it well. Great advice! Except if you’re like Jess, or today’s podcast guest Betty, who are multi-passionate, multi-talented people. On this episode of the Confessions podcast, we are joined by Betty Xie, a multi-passionate artist, fundraiser, and filmmaker, who shares her journey of how she found a way to blend all of her talents into one business.Highlights:Betty shares how she blends her passions and talents into a business model that works for her and her clients.Betty shares her insights on how to manage time and energy as a multi-passionate person, and how to find the balance between hobbies and revenue-generating activities.Betty talks about her process of experimenting and growing to evolve her business in a way that works for her.Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Betty:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettyxcoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettyxiePodcast: https://everydaytalent.buzzsprout.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38:1015/12/2022
Let's get visible, visible!
“But showing up consistently, working, being visible with your audience, I think is most important out of all.” - Cindy WagmanLet's get visible, visible! With Jess and CindyDo you even exist if you’re not online? All jokes aside (of course you do), being visible to your audience can help build the “know, like, and trust” factor for you and your business. People go to your social media or your website as a part of getting to know you and the solutions you have for them. On this episode of the Confessions podcast, we'll tackle the importance of visibility for business growth. Highlights:The value of being visible for your consulting businessHow to connect through social media without being sales-y Building partnerships to reach your target audienceGrowing visibility through speaking at conferences and podcastsShowing up as a Thought LeaderFind Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching https://cindywagman.com/ The Good Partnership https://www.thegoodpartnership.com/Connect with Jess: Out In the Boons: https://www.outintheboons.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
49:1308/12/2022