The Color of Giving: Painting Fundraising with Emotion & Intelligence

Crafting donor experiences that feel like art, because emotional intelligence is the new campaign currency.

SHOW NOTES:

November 6, 2025 – Episode # 206

The Color of Giving: Painting Fundraising with Emotion & Intelligence

Peeling back the curtain on the true art of fundraising, this episode of Raise Nation Radio invites you into a bold, brainy, and beautifully human conversation with Bill Crouch, Founder & CEO of BrightDot. Host Dawn Lego unpacks how the most effective fundraisers today are leading with emotional intelligence, leveraging donor psychology, and tapping into creativity to deeply connect with high-wealth individuals.

This isn’t your typical fundraising talk. Bill challenges fundraisers not only to know their donors but also to feel with them, think creatively, and train with intention. From the power of visual storytelling to the resilience needed after rejection, this episode is both a masterclass and a motivational nudge for anyone seeking to raise more by connecting deeper.

Guest Reflection:

“You don’t ask people to give because of what you need; you ask because of what they believe in. Every gift is a reflection of how deeply you’ve made them feel that they matter.“ — Bill Crouch

Episode Highlights:

• Exploring the difference between data and wisdom in fundraising.
• Why emotional intelligence is the secret sauce in donor engagement.
• The psychology behind why high-wealth donors give, and why they don’t.
• How visual communication outperforms text when influencing major gifts.
• Strategies to recover emotionally after a ‘no’ and stay mission-driven.
• The importance of creative coaching and personalized training for nonprofit success.

Connect with our Guests:

• Bill Crouch

Episodes Resources:

• BrightDot
• Nonprofit Mentorship Program
• Aspiring President’s Club
• Blog

Episode Credits and Extras:

• YouTube
• FREE Resources
• Raise Event Fundraising Conference
• Grant Program

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