Episode

Pruning Your Portfolio to Grow Your Results

Podcast
The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast
Published
Apr 28, 2026
Duration seconds
1195
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://the-intentional-fundraiser.captivate.fm/episode/pruning-your-portfolio-to-grow-your-results
Audio
https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/26dfcc31-61a5-41c2-84d5-ccecde38ac0b.mp3
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/the-intentional-fundraiser-podcast-4795105/episodes/pruning-your-portfolio-to-grow-your-results
Markdown
/podcast/the-intentional-fundraiser-podcast-4795105/pruning-your-portfolio-to-grow-your-results.md

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Summary

Pruning isn't loss. It's care. For years, fundraisers have been told that a bigger portfolio means a healthier pipeline. In my experience, the opposite is usually true. A focused list closes more gifts, and a focused fundraiser feels more human at the end of the week. In this week's episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I walk through the four lenses I use to decide who stays on an active portfolio, who graduates to stewardship, and who pauses for now. I also share the language to use with leadership when you propose a leaner, sharper list. What if the bravest move you make this quarter is to take 10 names off your portfolio on purpose? Give this episode a listen and pass it along to a fundraiser or development leader who needs permission to focus. The donors who stay on your list deserve your best, and so do you. More from Tammy Zonker Author of Calling All Heroes Founder of Fundraising Transformed President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving Learn more about the Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar Subscribe to Tammy Zonker's Scaling Major Gifts newsletter Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn Guest: Name, Title, Company Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode . Review my show: Please review my show . After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies