Episodes
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While many people know about AI, not everyone chooses to use it. The key difference is curiosity and the willingness to try new tools! During today's conversation, Nathan shares stories from his AI training sessions, showing how hands-on practice with tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and NotebookLM helps people understand what AI can and cannot do. The conversation also looks beyond productivity to discuss important topics such as AI's environmental impact, ethical concerns, and its growing influence on the way people write and communicate. Nathan talks about the need to use AI responsibly and shares ideas from his work on sustainable AI. Scott adds that people should focus on using AI to solve real problems instead of relying on it for everything. Furthermore, Nathan and Scott explore how AI can support the nonprofit sector, the rise of new AI systems that combine multiple models, and the increasing amount of AI-generated content on platforms such as LinkedIn. They end the conversation by encouraging listeners to stay curious, keep learning, and use AI as a tool to support, rather than replace, human creativity. HIGHLIGHTS[01:04] AI Training and Practical Applications [12:30] Agency and AI Adoption [13:39] Environmental Impact and Ethical Concerns [16:27] Philanthropy and Nonprofit Sector Challenges [22:42] Technical Advancements in AI [32:48] LinkedIn and AI-Generated Content [37:12] AI's Influence on Language and Communication Resources: Connect with Nathan and Scott: LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans Website: fundraising.ai/ Website (Nathan): nathanchappell.com/
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Behind every new AI breakthrough lies a bigger question: who benefits, who loses, and what comes next?
In this conversation, Nathan and Scott explore some of the biggest debates shaping the future of artificial intelligence. They begin with Apple's WWDC announcements, discussing Siri's major upgrades and how on-device AI could make it a smarter and more personalized assistant. The discussion then shifts to Anthropic and its Claude models, including Fable, a safety-focused AI system that was ultimately shut down due to potential risks.
Nathan and Scott also examine changing narratives around AI and employment, questioning why industry leaders such as Sam Altman and Dario Amodei have recently shifted from warning about job losses to promoting job creation, especially as their companies prepare for IPOs. Finally, they tackle AI's environmental impact, highlighting the energy demands of data centers and considering whether future technologies, such as quantum computing, could provide sustainable solutions.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:44] WWDC and Siri Updates
[12:07] Anthropic and Claude Models
[22:20] Impact of AI on Jobs and IPOs
[30:00] Environmental Concerns and AI
Resources:
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/
Mentioned in the episode:
The Artificial Intelligence Show: podcast.smarterx.ai/
The AI Daily Brief: aidailybrief.ai/ -
Missing episodes?
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This episode features Sophia 'Puff' Story, Co-Founder of 3 Sided Cube USA, exploring how mission-driven technology and artificial intelligence are reshaping both business and nonprofit sectors. Sophia shares how 3 Sided Cube builds "tech for good" products designed to improve millions of lives, and reflects on their experience using AI to develop a new website, an effort that revealed the continued importance of human judgment.
The discussion turns to the company's expansion into the US market, driven by strong demand and early revenue traction. Nathan and Sophia then examine the accelerating impact of AI on nonprofits, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in adoption, including governance, compliance, and strategy. Sophia further emphasizes experimentation, clear goal-setting, and measuring success before deploying AI solutions. The episode concludes with a call for nonprofits to embrace risk-taking, continuous learning, and practical AI experimentation to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape!
HIGHLIGHTS
[03:21] 3 Sided Cube USA and Its Brand
[06:26] Expansion to the US Market
[11:40] Impact of AI on Business and Nonprofit Sectors
[14:58] Challenges and Opportunities in Nonprofit AI Adoption
[23:21] The Role of AI in Nonprofit Innovation
[34:01] The Behaviors Behind Innovation
Resources:
Connect with Sophia:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophia
Website: 3sidedcube.com/
Mentioned in the episode:
ai-adoption.3sidedcube.com/
marketing.3sidedcube.com/ai-adoption-toolkit -
What happens when artificial intelligence advances faster than society's ability to adapt? And what role should nonprofits, faith leaders, and technology providers play in shaping a future that remains deeply human?
In this episode, Nathan and Scott reflect on key discussions from the Virtuous User Summit, where AI emerged as a central theme for the nonprofit sector. They examine the unique culture of collaboration within nonprofits and the responsibility of technology partners to support missions that serve the common good. A major focus is the Pope's recent encyclical on AI, which raises concerns about the concentration of power, the dehumanizing potential of unchecked technology, and the need for ethical safeguards.
The conversation also explores AI-driven workforce disruption, growing demand for nonprofit services, and the sector's readiness to respond to these challenges. Beyond the risks, Nathan and Scott highlight practical opportunities for AI adoption, encouraging leaders to move beyond fear, fatigue, and FOMO through experimentation and curiosity. They discuss emerging AI models, personalized AI assistants, knowledge-management tools, and automation that can free people to focus on creativity and relationships.
HIGHLIGHTS
[01:30] AI's Moral Imperative and Nonprofit Sector Challenges
[04:23] Pope's Encyclical on AI and Its Implications
[10:18] Nonprofit Sector's Preparedness for AI Disruption
[20:44] Practical AI Adoption and Overcoming Challenges
[25:51] New AI Models and Their Capabilities
[31:56] AI Tools and Personalized AI
[38:00] AI's Impact on Society and Ethical Considerations
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/
Obsidian: Obsidian.md/ -
Imagine a world where AI becomes a facilitator for solving the world’s hardest challenges, but if we choose to shape it with care.
Raising both opportunities and concerns, AI is quickly reshaping the world of nonprofit and higher education sectors. In the process of adopting AI, organizations face pivotal decisions regarding ethics, agency, and creativity. Leaders can guide AI use toward a future rooted in human dignity and innovation by balancing optimism with healthy skepticism and anchoring choices in personal and organizational values.
In this episode of the Fundraising AI podcast, Nathan is joined by Rafeel Wasif, director of the Nonprofit Institute and Assistant Professor of Public Administration at Portland State University. His work is a combination of research, practice, and leadership development in the nonprofit and public sectors. Other than focusing on responsible AI adoption, he is guiding leaders to understand not only what emerging technologies are capable of, but also how they can be governed effectively. He joined Nathan to explore the evolving relationship between AI and the nonprofit sector.
HIGHLIGHTS
[03:12] The Nonprofit sector and its evolution in approaching AI.
[06:52] Introduction and background to Rafeel Wasif.
[11:33] Rafeel’s purpose in writing his new book.
[18:06] AI as a research partner.
[20:41] The growing trend in academia in structured nonprofit leadership education.
[23:48] Ethical adoption, transparency, and grounding AI use in human values.
[28:50] Knowing and articulating your values before AI adoption.
[33:18] Staying curious, balancing optimism with healthy skepticism, and being mindful when bringing humanity into every tech decision.
RESOURCES
Rafeel Wasif
pdx.edu/profile/rafeel-wasif
Website - rafeelwasif.com/
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/rafeel-wasif-ph-d-b617a54b/ -
Meet Ben Miller, Senior Vice President of Data Science and Analytics at Bonterra, and Tanuja Korlepra, Chief Technology Officer at Bonterra.
Starting the conversation, Ben shares his experience in fundraising analytics and industry research, while Tanuja mentions her background in big tech, including work with Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, and her passion for using technology to drive meaningful impact.
The conversation introduces Bonterra as a mission-driven company that supports nonprofits through fundraising tools, donor engagement, and campaign management. Ben reflects on the early days of AI in fundraising, when predictive models faced skepticism, and contrasts that with today's rapid adoption following breakthroughs such as ChatGPT.
Tanuja and Ben discuss key AI concepts -predictive, generative, and agentic- and highlight Bonterra's innovation, "Bonterra Que," an intelligent AI coach designed to help nonprofits improve fundraising outcomes. They also address the challenges of AI adoption, encouraging organizations to focus on practical use cases rather than hype.
The episode closes with a strong emphasis on ethical AI, trust, and the shift toward outcome-driven solutions that empower nonprofits to achieve real-world impact more effectively.
HIGHLIGHTS
[03:37] Overview of Bonterra and Its Mission
[06:40] Evolution of AI in Nonprofit Sector
[10:34] Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption
[15:09] Understanding Predictive, Generative, and Agentic AI
[20:54] Development and Impact of Bonterra Que
[30:01] Feedback and Success Stories from Bonterra Que Users
[33:27] Outcomes as a Service in Fundraising
[39:22] Responsible and Ethical Use of AI
Resources:
Connect with Ben and Tanuja:
LinkedIn (Ben): linkedin.com/in/ben-miller
Email (Ben): [email protected]
LinkedIn (Tanuja): linkedin.com/in/tanuja-korlepra
Email (Tanuja): [email protected] -
What if the tools we built today decide how society advances tomorrow?
With the emergence of world models, which are capable of understanding causality, basic physics, spatial relationships, and time, they are prepared to predict consequences at an extraordinary scale. Powerful tools like these have the ability to bring both enormous potential for breakthroughs in medicine, security, and innovation and amplify risks from misuse, cyberattacks, or unintended societal impacts. The responsibility rests on the shoulders of those who witness these developments at present to establish guardrails, foster collaboration, and use them with transparency and accountability.
In this episode of the Fundraising AI podcast, Nathan and Scott bring awareness to AI safety, where they share opinions on setting boundaries, staying informed, and using AI transparently to align with personal values. Join with them and understand how AI is capable of creating both incredible opportunities and serious risks if not managed with caution.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:05] The Rise of the World Model - The beginning of a phase where AI can predict and simulate reality itself.
[07:21] The Biggest Signal - Paying attention to companies who accelerate AI releases and hold back its capabilities.
[12:47] Tool Dependency - The risk of building a strategy around a single platform.
[18:25] Adaptive Security - Preparing the systems and organizations when things go wrong with AI.
[23:33] Risk & Responsibilities - Deciding how to use AI, where to draw the line, and who to build with.
[30:02] ChatGPT Voice Mode - Nathan encourages listeners to use ChatGPT's voice mode to have long, detailed conversations about complex topics.
[33:40] Prompt Hack - Scott shares a prompt hack that will help listeners to be transparent and structured with AI and get the best results.
RESOURCES
Industrial Policy for the Intelligence Age: Ideas to Keep People First
Project Glasswing
ChatGPT Prompt Hack by Kyle Behrend
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
This episode features Gabe Cooper, CEO and founder of Virtuous Software.
Starting the conversation, Gabe shares his journey, explaining how his background in the nonprofit sector inspired him to build Virtuous with a mission to make giving more personal and meaningful. He explores the idea of "responsive fundraising," a model that uses data to create deeper, more human connections with donors rather than simply storing information.
As the conversation unfolds, Gabe discusses how this concept evolved and how it is transforming nonprofit engagement. He also explains the challenges nonprofits face in adopting AI, emphasizing curiosity, experimentation, and ethical responsibility. The episode closes with practical advice for nonprofit leaders and an optimistic view of how technology can empower generosity and drive meaningful impact.
HIGHLIGHTS
[03:28] Nathan's Journey with Virtuous
[05:41] The Evolution of Responsive Fundraising
[13:42] The Future of Responsive Fundraising and AI
[18:01] Impact of AI on Fundraising and Generosity
[26:01] Challenges and Opportunities in Adopting AI
[31:38] Virtuous's Multi-Product Strategy and AI Leadership
[34:41] Practical Advice for Nonprofit Leaders
Resources:
Connect with Gabe:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gabecooper/
Website: virtuous.org/ -
Let's have a thoughtful look at how purpose, strategy, and technology can come together to create meaningful global change!
Dr. Douglas Jackson, CEO of Project C.U.R.E., talks about the journey of the organization, which began in a small garage in 1987 and has grown into a global charity. He shares that in the early days, they used simple spreadsheets to manage their work, but later moved to Microsoft tools to improve their systems and communication.
Doug highlights how strategic partnerships and technology adoption improved efficiency, enabling Project C.U.R.E. to deliver hundreds of medical shipments globally each year. He emphasizes treating nonprofits like businesses, focusing on sustainability, accountability, and maximizing the value of volunteer contributions.
The discussion also explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in the nonprofit sector. From improving data accuracy to enabling localized medical training, AI is helping organizations scale their impact. Doug notes that responsible use of AI can create new opportunities, especially for smaller nonprofits with limited resources.
The conversation concludes with practical advice: approach nonprofits like startups, seek expert guidance, and embrace innovation.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:29] Doug's Background and Project C.U.R.E.'s Journey
[12:59] Business Model and Efficiency
[17:23] A 35-Year-Old Startup in a Changing World
[20:16] Turning Data into Better Decisions
[28:28] Innovation and AI in Nonprofit Operations
[40:14] Advice for Small Nonprofits
Connect with Doug:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-douglas-jackson/
Website: projectcure.org/ -
What does it really take to blend human connection with rapidly evolving AI tools? How do you stay grounded when technology is constantly pushing you to do more, faster?
In this conversation, Nathan and Scott explore these questions while celebrating a major milestone in their podcast journey, reaching 30,000 downloads and 80 episodes.
The discussion explores the transformative impact of AI tools such as ChatGPT and Perplexity, highlighting how these technologies are reshaping workflows, boosting efficiency, and prompting new ways of thinking. Through personal stories, Nathan and Scott emphasize the importance of experimentation and continuous learning to fully unlock AI's potential.
At the same time, they address the risks of overuse, stressing the need for clear boundaries to prevent burnout. The conversation also explores how AI can revolutionize nonprofit fundraising by scaling personalization while preserving authenticity and human connection. Ultimately, Nathan and Scott encourage nonprofits to adopt a bold, innovative mindset, leveraging AI not just to work faster, but to create meaningful, lasting impact.
HIGHLIGHTS
[00:26] Celebrating Podcast Milestones
[01:34] Impact of AI Tools: CoPilot and ChatGPT
[08:35] Personal Experiences with AI Tools
[11:35] Balancing AI Use with Personal Boundaries
[28:55] The Future of AI in Nonprofit Work
Resources:
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
In this episode, Nathan and Scott explore the growing intersection of artificial intelligence, politics, and organizational values.
The conversation begins with the Pentagon's request to use Anthropic's AI model without certain safeguards, a request the company declined. This decision sparks a discussion of the political pressure on AI companies, including potential government responses and the broader implications of corporate independence. Nathan and Scott also examine how other companies responded to the situation, highlighting the fast-moving and sometimes contradictory dynamics within the AI industry.
Beyond the immediate controversy, Nathan and Scott reflect on the deeper role that values play in decision-making. They discuss how both nonprofit and for-profit organizations must establish clear guardrails to avoid ethical compromises.
The discussion then shifts to practical experiences with AI tools, including evolving platform preferences and growing concerns about data transparency. Nathan and Scott introduce concepts such as model routing and personalized AI workflows, emphasizing the importance of experimentation with emerging technologies.
Finally, they talk about how AI is changing jobs and careers. They encourage people to explore AI tools, keep learning, and stay curious so they can remain useful in an increasingly AI-driven world.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:31] Pentagon vs. Anthropic: AI's Political Impact
[06:37] Values and Organizational Decision-Making
[16:22] AI Tools and User Shifts
[23:56] Model Routing and Personalization
[37:43] Future-Proofing Careers with AI
Resources:
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
This week on FundraisingAI, Scott sits down with Paul Goldstein, Head of AI Growth at Blackbaud, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the non-profit sector. Paul reflects on his journey from leading tech roles at Amazon and Glassdoor to joining Blackbaud, a mission-driven organization focused on impact and responsibility. He shares what inspired the move and highlights the passion, thoughtfulness, and deep commitment to privacy he has encountered in the non-profit world.
The discussion dives into Blackbaud's "Intelligence for Good" strategy, an approach centered on building AI tools that are responsible, convenient, and genuinely helpful for non-profits. Paul explains the concept of agentic AI and how it goes beyond advice to actively help organizations accomplish tasks, from data cleanup to personalized outreach. Together, Scott and Paul examine the importance of trust, strong data foundations, and user-friendly design in driving AI adoption.
Paul also shares personal insights on using AI to enhance productivity and encourages listeners to remain curious and open to experimentation. The episode closes with an optimistic look at how ethical, collaborative AI innovation can empower non-profits to strengthen relationships, increase efficiency, and amplify their mission-driven impact.
HIGHLIGHTS
[01:37] Paul's Transition to Blackbaud
[05:39] Blackbaud's Intelligence for Good Strategy
[10:52] Agentic AI and Its Impact on Non-profits
[24:22] Adoption and Future of AI in Non-profits
[28:13] Paul's Personal Experience with AI
[30:38] Blackbaud's Support for Fundraising AI
[31:34] Final Thoughts
Connect with Paul:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/paul-goldstein/
Website: blackbaud.com/
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
The future belongs to those who are willing to see past what worked before and design for what comes next. With intelligence becoming abundant, organizations are forced to face a new challenge: turning powerful tools into meaningful, ethical impact. Responsible AI use has come to depend more on culture, operations, and leadership mindset than on technology. In order for this to work, curiosity must be expected, experimentation must be safe, and systems must translate insight into action. With a combination of people, processes, and purpose, AI becomes a force multiplier rather than a checkbox. Those who are willing to rethink talent, reward better questions, and build operational guardrails that allow innovation without chaos have the real advantage of becoming successful in AI implementation.
Join Nathan and Scott on this live conversation to discover why AI is a cultural shift, not a technology purchase, the reasons for organizations to be successful in AI implementation when they prioritize psychological safety and learning, build systems to support action, and only invest in tools, how adaptability can be an advantage when intelligence has become a commodity, how learning scales through transparency and safe failure builds confidence and accelerates responsible adoption across an organization, and also the importance of addressing AI fatigue through manageable experimentation and visible learning.
HIGHLIGHTS
[00.55] The origin story and initial success of Fundraising.ai.
[03.46] The challenges of AI adoption in nonprofits.
[07.10] The importance of using AI as a thought partner.
[11.00] Cultural readiness, operational structure, and technical solutions.
[15.38] Cultural & talent adaptation in the AI era.
[18.44] Building a culture of curiosity that rewards experimentation, questioning, and learning.
[25.26] The need for acceptable use policies to ensure safe and effective AI adoption.
[32.02] Highlighting iteration, mistakes, and learning.
[36.23] The importance of addressing AI fatigue.
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
The future we’ve imagined is arriving at a pace we never expected. And AI is leading the charge with the ability to code, plan autonomously, and act independently. Showing the gaps in ethics, privacy, and long-term accountability, these technologies amplify both human potential and risk. The stakes range from sensitive data collection to the responsibility of choosing when to use or refuse. It is essential that organizations, leaders, and individuals understand how speed, incentives, and values can shape a future where AI mirrors both our intelligence and our humanity.
In this week’s episode, Nathan and Scott bring you the latest developments in the field of artificial intelligence and the growing concerns regarding its rapidly advancing technologies. They start the conversation by discussing the release of Claude Cowork by Anthropic, which is a multi-step agentic AI, showing us how fast things are moving. Then Nathan and Scott exchange thoughts on the importance of AI regulations and the need for having a global kill switch for all the AI around the world in the wake of superintelligence. Further down in the conversation, they explore the topics of what you should be concerned with regarding the acceleration of AI, data privacy and social media, the future of humanity and the role of AI in it, and at last the delicate balance between using AI and maintaining trust in the nonprofit sector.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02.32] The creation of Claude Bot.
[04.00] Claude Cowork - A multi-step work AI agent designed by Anthropic.
[07.52] The importance of AI regulation.
[10.40] The global kill-switch.
[13.38] The absence of a second chance.
[20.20] AI acceleration and what to look out for.
[26.47] Tiktok ownership change in the USA and data privacy.
[31.34] The future of humanity and AI.
[33.53] AI, nonprofit, and trust.
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
This conversation explores the growing influence of artificial intelligence on humanity, work, and relationships, framed through reflections on the World Economic Forum in Davos. Nathan and Scott discuss how AI has overtaken environmental issues as the dominant theme, while also questioning the irony of elite climate discussions driven by private travel. They examine how rapidly AI is reshaping daily life and challenge listeners to think beyond the present, including the implications of a near future marked by ideas such as "AI 2027" and the path toward artificial general intelligence.
The discussion turns to philanthropy and nonprofits, where AI can improve efficiency but cannot replace human generosity, judgment, or relationships. Nathan and Scott emphasize ethical oversight, critical thinking, and responsible use of donor resources. They also address AI's impact on jobs, youth, and relationships, warning against over-reliance on relational AI. The conversation concludes with a call for curiosity, adaptability, and thoughtful leadership in an AI-driven world!
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:24] Davos and the Impact of AI on Humanity
[08:30] The Role of Donors and AI in Philanthropy
[14:18] The Evolution of AI and Its Impact on Jobs
[19:38] Practical Considerations of AI
[30:59] The Impact of AI on Youth and Relationships
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
This conversation features a thoughtful discussion between Nathan and Kelley Hecht on how nonprofits can use AI in practical, responsible ways.
Nathan introduces Kelley and highlights her work at AWS, where she helps nonprofit organizations adopt cloud technology and AI with a strong focus on data, security, and ethics. Kelley shares her journey into AI, explaining how early confusion helped her understand the gap between hype and reality. Together, they explore common misperceptions about AI, stressing that it is not about tools alone, but about clear goals, good data, and strong decision-making.
The conversation emphasizes data as a strategic asset and introduces Amazon's "working backwards" approach to solving problems. Nathan and Kelley also discuss challenges faced by both small and large nonprofits, the importance of leadership support, and the role of culture in AI adoption. They conclude by reinforcing that AI should strengthen human connection, not replace it.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:22] Kelley's Role and Contributions to Nonprofit AI
[07:04] Challenges and Misperceptions in AI Adoption
[12:11] AI's Role in Nonprofit Ecosystems
[15:00] Data Strategy and AI Integration
[20:52] Working Backwards: Starting With the Why
[24:16] Moving Beyond "AI as the Answer"
[32:59] Data as the Lifeblood of the Organization
[41:45] Future of AI in Nonprofit Sector
Connect with Kelley:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelleyhecht
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
The rapid development of AI technologies is changing the rules of productivity, creativity, and success in ways that are a marvel in comparison to before. Nonprofits now have the tools closer by to accelerate workflows, generate insights, and unlock new possibilities, but the challenge is defining what success looks like in this fast-growing landscape. Leaders must rethink priorities, protect time for strategic thinking, and harness AI to amplify mission impact rather than just speed when linear benchmarks, incremental growth, and traditional measures of output are no longer enough. Join Nathan and Scott in this new year’s episode and learn how organizations can thrive by pairing technology with imagination, intention, and cross-team collaboration.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[00:57] The end of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026.
[02:46] The challenge of defining success in a rapidly changing world.
[08:30] AI’s potential for increased output and the risk of burnout.
[12:52] Curiosity, intentionality, and the ability to apply passion with direction.
[16:00] Redefining success as adaptability, alignment, and intentional choice.
[20:30] Lack of imagination in the nonprofit sector.
]21:51] The future of AI and its implications for nonprofits.
[27:45] Turning AI from a tool into a strategic advantage.
[29:09] Predictions for AI in 2026.
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/
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AI is a dichotomy of infinite possibility and infinite doom. It challenges humans to reclaim agency in an era strongly shaped by technology. From reshaping creative industries to redefining authenticity, AI is more than just a tool but a mirror of decision-making, curiosity, and restraint. Join Nathan and Scott in their conversation on how leaders, creators, and organizations can navigate cognitive dissonance, acknowledge AI as a thinking partner, not a task executor, and focus on human-centered action amid rapid technological development.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02.27] The importance of understanding one’s values in the age of AI.
[05.34] Infinite possibility and infinite doom.
[13.08] Task-executor vs. cognitive partner.
[20.00] Common objections to AI and resistance to change.
[27.19] The Future of AI: Predictions for 2026.
[36.12] Predictive vs. generative AI.
[36.52] Australia: The first country to outlaw AI or social media for teenagers.
[39.25] The value of social media platforms.
[43.10] Quantum computing and AI development.
[47.51] The potential for AI to enhance and transform creative processes.
RESOURCES
Australia begins enforcing world-first teen social media ban
reuters.com/legal/litigation/australia-social-media-ban-takes-effect-world-first-2025-12-09/
GPT-5.2 Release
linkedin.com/posts/openai_gpt-52-is-now-rolling-out-to-everyone-this-activity-7404948016161488898-uz_2/
Disney strikes $1B deal with OpenAI
linkedin.com/news/story/disney-strikes-1b-deal-with-openai-8080826/
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/
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In this episode, Nathan and Scott talk about how quickly AI is changing the fundraising world. They look back at 2025 and think about what 2026 might bring. Nathan points out that no one expected AI to advance this quickly in just three years, and both agree that staying curious and adaptable is essential.
They share real examples, such as Nathan's young sons building apps, to show how easy it is to use AI tools. They also discuss AI's impact on jobs, with reports suggesting that nearly 12% of the US workforce could be affected.
A big part of the episode focuses on agentic AI—AI that can perform complex tasks on its own—and "vibe coding," which lets people build apps simply by talking to their computer. They also discuss Google's Gemini 3 and tools such as Notebook LM that make creating content faster and easier.
To wrap up, Nathan and Scott encourage listeners to stay open-minded, keep learning, and make the most of new AI opportunities as we head into 2026.
HIGHLIGHTS
[05:05] AI's Impact on the Workforce and Personal Experiences
[08:03] The Role of Agentic AI and Vibe Coding
[21:14] Google's Gemini 3 and AI Integration
[30:10] AI Strategy and Ethical Considerations
[32:03] Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ -
Change rarely begins with certainty. It begins with a decision to act. In this episode, Nathan is joined by Michael Sheldrick to explore what it takes to turn ideas into real impact.
Michael Sheldrick is the Co-Founder and Chief Policy, Impact and Government Affairs Officer for Global Citizen, who oversees a global team of 30 professionals who work with governments, businesses, foundations, and artists to end extreme poverty and achieve the sustainable development goals. As a believer that lasting change begins with action, he is guided by optimism and a global outlook where he sees technology, creativity, and collaboration as tools to amplify humanity’s potential. Turning his gratitude into service, Michael made a lifelong commitment to empower others to act, adapt, and reimagine what’s possible.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[01:00] Introduction and background of Michael Sheldrick.
[04:11] Choosing to act meaningfully in your sphere of influence.
[07:11] Turning belief and gratitude into meaningful change.
[13:34] Willingness to ask for help.
[17:21] Systemic change through collaboration and creativity.
[25:30] The promise and paradox of AI.
[35:03] AI, labor, and creativity.
[38:50] The role of education in the future uncertainty.
[43:55] What’s in the future for Michael?
RESOURCES
Connect with Michael Sheldrick
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/michael-sheldrick-30364051/
Website - michaelsheldrick.com/
From Ideas to Impact: A Playbook for Influencing and Implementing Change in a Divided World
by Michael Sheldrick
amazon.com/dp/1394202342
Connect with Nathan and Scott:
LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/
LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans
Website: fundraising.ai/ - Show more
