The AI Dude

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch welcomes Chris McGown, founder and principal of Peak 9860, to explore how artificial intelligence is impacting the world of planned giving while keeping relationships at the heart of fundraising. With over 30 years of nonprofit development experience, Chris has cultivated $95 million in planned gifts and shares invaluable lessons from his career. Together, Josh and Chris discuss the evolving role of AI in planned giving, from identifying prospects to crafting personalized messaging, and the critical importance of transparency and trust when integrating AI into nonprofit strategies. Chris shares heartfelt stories of donor relationships that underscore the power of human connection in inspiring legacy gifts. Key Topics: How AI analytics can identify and prioritize planned giving prospects. The importance of building meaningful donor relationships in fundraising. Transparency and ethical practices in AI-generated nonprofit communications. Memorable donor stories that highlight the impact of planned giving. Challenges nonprofits face in ensuring data accuracy for AI applications. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Planned Giving and AI02:34 Chris McGown’s Career and Achievements in Nonprofit Development06:12 Balancing Relationships and Technology in Planned Giving09:52 Using AI to Identify Prospects and Personalize Messaging12:02 Challenges with Data Accuracy and AI in Nonprofits14:27 Transparency in AI-Generated Content16:40 Donor Skepticism in the Age of AI18:58 Ethical AI Practices and Building Donor Trust23:42 Chris’s Journey: The Story Behind Peak 986026:01 Fun and Reflection: Favorite 1980s Movies Connect with Chris McGown: Website: Peak 9860 LinkedIn: Christopher McGown Connect with Josh Hirsch: Website: The AI Dude LinkedIn: Josh Hirsch

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Diana Otero, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Bloomerang, to explore the intersection of AI and nonprofit innovation. With a deep background in volunteer-driven organizations, Diana shares how her experience maintaining trails for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy shaped her perspective on nonprofit operations and volunteer engagement. Together, Josh and Diana discuss how Bloomerang is integrating AI into its platform to simplify donor management, enhance communications, and empower nonprofits to achieve more. Learn about the AI Content Assistant, a game-changing feature that helps nonprofits overcome writer’s block and create personalized donor interactions at scale—all while keeping donor privacy intact. Key Topics: How AI can be used for A/B testing to optimize fundraising campaigns. The importance of clean data in segmentation and donor relationship-building. Practical examples of using AI to simplify nonprofit operations and save time. Diana’s insights on keeping the human element at the forefront of AI-driven communications. Nonprofits need to adapt to technological advancements. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Nonprofits 02:46 Diana Otero's Journey and Volunteer Experience 06:12 The Role of Bloomerang in Nonprofit Management 09:04 Integrating AI into Nonprofit Operations 11:58 AI Content Assistant: Enhancing Communication 14:50 User Experience and Feedback on AI Features 18:03 Future Developments in AI for Nonprofits 21:12 Personal Use of AI and Learning 24:01 Fun and Reflection: 1980s Movies and Balance

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS engages in an in-depth conversation with ⁠Woodrow Rosenbaum⁠, ⁠Chief Data Officer at GivingTuesday⁠, and a leading voice in the global generosity movement. Together, they uncover how artificial intelligence (AI) and data are transforming the nonprofit landscape, from shaping donor engagement strategies to driving impactful decision-making. Woodrow dives into the ⁠Fundraising Effectiveness Project⁠, a vital tool for understanding trends in fundraising, and the ⁠GivingTuesday Data Commons⁠, a global initiative leveraging data to inspire generosity. They also examine the findings of the recently released AI Readiness Survey, discussing how nonprofits can overcome skepticism, implement ethical AI practices, and harness technology to build stronger, more resilient organizations. This episode is packed with actionable insights for nonprofits of all sizes looking to future-proof their operations and maximize their mission. Key Topics AI as a Strategic Partner: How AI enhances decision-making and empowers nonprofits to act with data-driven confidence. Education and Readiness: The importance of equipping nonprofit teams with the knowledge and tools to embrace AI effectively. Ethical AI Practices: Addressing data privacy, transparency, and accountability to ensure responsible AI adoption in the nonprofit sector. Data-Driven Insights: How AI accelerates data analysis, revealing actionable trends and opportunities faster than traditional methods. Advocating for AI in the Sector: Why nonprofits must take an active role in shaping AI’s integration into philanthropy. Personalization at Scale: Leveraging AI to create meaningful, personalized donor experiences while maintaining authenticity. Overcoming Skepticism: Understanding the hesitations surrounding AI adoption and how organizations can foster experimentation in a low-risk environment. The Power of Imagination: Exploring how creativity and curiosity unlock the full potential of AI tools for nonprofit innovation. Strengthening Fundraising Efforts: Practical ways nonprofits can use AI to boost efficiency, retention, and engagement with donors. Opportunities for Small to Mid-Sized Organizations: Why these nonprofits stand to benefit the most from AI adoption and how to get started. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Data-Driven Fundraising03:15 - What is the Fundraising Effectiveness Project?07:52 - Using Data to Build Resilient Nonprofits12:10 - Skepticism vs. Experimentation with AI16:40 - AI Readiness Survey Results21:05 - Ethical AI and Transparent Policies25:30 - The Future of AI in Fundraising and Philanthropy28:47 - Woodrow’s Favorite 1980s Movie

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Scott Remington to discuss the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for nonprofits. They explore how AI can serve as a co-pilot, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making without replacing human jobs. The conversation covers the ethical implications of AI, the importance of education and advocacy for nonprofits, and practical applications of AI tools, including custom GPTs. Scott shares his mission with FosterAI, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to embrace technology while maintaining a humanistic approach.   Key Topics: AI can enhance decision-making in nonprofits. Nonprofits should embrace automation and co-piloting with AI. Education on AI tools is crucial for nonprofits. AI can help brainstorm and generate ideas. Ethical considerations are vital in AI development. Custom GPTs can be tailored for specific organizational needs. AI can analyze data faster than traditional methods. Nonprofits must advocate for their role in AI discussions. Imagination is key to leveraging AI effectively. AI tools can significantly improve fundraising efforts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Nonprofits 05:08 The Future of AI in Nonprofits 09:47 AI as a Co-Pilot for Nonprofits 14:59 The Ethical Considerations of AI 20:02 Practical Applications of AI for Nonprofits 24:49 Custom GPTs and Personalization 30:01 Foster AI and Scott's Mission 34:48 Conclusion and Resources