Donor relationship strategies are evolving—and honesty is at the core. In Episode 38, Lindsay talks with philanthropist and author Lisa Greer about how nonprofits can build stronger, more authentic relationships with donors by reframing their conversations. From transparency to trust, Lisa shares powerful insights that challenge traditional fundraising norms.
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Behind the scenes with a high net wealth donor about how to click with donors for long lasting support
“Donors are not cookie cutters, they are human, and just like fundraisers, they are not all the same.” Share on XFundraising Can Feel Tough—But It Doesn’t Have to
Fundraising is a TOUGH job. What’s even harder is the growing pressure to raise funds that support essential societal needs and services. At times, fundraising can feel transactional, urgent, and overwhelming—and that doesn’t feel good for anyone involved.
Let’s pause and reflect on the nature of our relationships with donors. How can we communicate with more grace, generosity, and purpose? I’m excited to explore this in today’s episode—through the lens of a “major gifts donor.”
A Unique Perspective from the Donor Side
As you know, the Creating Community for Good podcast was created to host honest, authentic conversations across the philanthropic space. I’ve spoken with fundraisers, volunteers, nonprofit leaders, and social entrepreneurs to offer insights and spark meaningful change.
In this episode, I welcome Lisa Greer, a philanthropy powerhouse, to share her perspective—not as a fundraiser, but as a donor. Her insights are eye-opening, and I encourage you to take notes. Lisa doesn’t just speak from experience; she reframes how we think about engaging with donors entirely.
Meet Lisa Greer: Philanthropist, Advocate, and Changemaker
Lisa Greer is a proud philanthropist, dynamic entrepreneur, convener, and the author of Philanthropy Revolution—a bold book on why the sector is outdated and at risk of collapse. Over the past decade, Lisa has hosted nearly 200 nonprofit salons and events in her Beverly Hills home, connecting donors to meaningful causes.
In 2020, she was appointed by California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon to the State Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. She also serves on the board of the New Israel Fund and is on the Executive Committee of the Cedars-Sinai Board of Governors.
Her Journey and Frustration with “Old-School” Philanthropy
Earlier in her career, Lisa held executive roles at NBC and Universal Studios and founded multiple companies, including a consulting firm for digital media and entertainment. Growing up, Lisa didn’t come from wealth—so when she started gaining financial resources, nonprofits rushed in, often with tone-deaf or desperate asks.
Frustrated by the disconnect, Lisa took a deeper look at the system and ultimately wrote a modern, practical handbook for fundraisers, nonprofits, and donors to build authentic, trusting partnerships.
It’s Time to Reframe What Philanthropy Really Means
Today, “philanthropy” can carry negative connotations—seen as a tool for wealthy individuals to mask problematic behavior. That’s why it’s so important for fundraisers to stand firm in their values and surround themselves with donors who are genuinely passionate about change.
When we think of philanthropy, we often think of money first—but that’s not the core. Philanthropy is about collaboration, community, transformation, and the love of humankind.
A Call to Action: Communicate with Purpose
Fundraising isn’t just about raising money—it’s about building lasting relationships. It’s time we shift the focus from quick wins to long-term impact.
So ask yourself:
Are you seeing donors as people, or just as funding sources?
Are you taking the time to truly connect—with empathy and curiosity?
Are you actively listening when donors speak?
It’s time to reimagine how we communicate, partner, and lead in philanthropy. Let’s revolutionize this field together.
Key Takeaways:
- (04:00) – A major prejudice: is the world of philanthropy really corrupt?
- (11:55) – Donors have a voice: Lisa’s philanthropy journey and the motivation behind her Philanthropy Revolution book.
- (18:13) – Why both donors and fundraisers must set expectations around solicitations from the beginning of the conversation.
- (21:59) – The Philanthropy Revolution: How reframing the philosophy and practices inside philanthropy could create a functioning and fruitful community.
- (30:09) – How to move from having unpleasant experiences with donors to building authentic, high-value relationships with them.
- (33:27) – Why choosing to collaborate will always be the right call.
- (37:22) – How to restructure the power dynamics between fundraisers and donors to aim for authenticity and real connections.
Connect with Lisa
Through email
Episode Resources
Philanthropy Revolution by Lisa Greer
Subscribe to Philanthropy 451
