# 296: Real Talk on Confident Fundraising: Answering Your Questions with Mallory Erickson

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/what-the-fundraising-4083661/296-real-talk-on-confident-fundraising-answering-your-questions-with-mallory-erickson
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/what-the-fundraising-4083661/296-real-talk-on-confident-fundraising-answering-your-questions-with-mallory-erickson.md
Podcast: [What the Fundraising](https://stenobird.com/podcast/what-the-fundraising-4083661)
Published: 2026-04-21T10:30:00+00:00
Episode link: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/ICAAL2778276666.mp3?updated=1776786947
Audio file: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/ICAAL2778276666.mp3?updated=1776786947
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/what-the-fundraising-4083661/episodes/296-real-talk-on-confident-fundraising-answering-your-questions-with-mallory-erickson
Duration seconds: 2753

## Resource

This episode takes a slightly different approach. Instead of the usual format, Mallory responds directly to a range of thoughtful questions from her community! She begins by discussing how to handle anxiety before donor conversations, encouraging fundraisers to acknowledge their feelings rather than push them away. Simple techniques, such as validating emotions with phrases such as "that makes sense," can help reduce stress more quickly. She also explains that preparation and practice are key to building confidence, introducing AI-based tools that allow fundraisers to rehearse conversations and develop strong muscle memory. Mallory also highlights how confidence impacts fundraising success, noting that low confidence can lead to missed opportunities and inefficiency. She further addresses burnout and loss of motivation, explaining the "freeze" response and suggesting that sometimes people need energizing activities rather than just rest to regain momentum. A key theme in the episode is a shifting mindset. Mallory encourages fundraisers to stop feeling guilty about asking for money and instead see it as an opportunity for donors to contribute to meaningful change. She also emphasizes curiosity when handling objections, focusing on understanding donors rather than persuading them. Overall, the episode reinforces the importance of practice, emotional awareness, and purpose. Mallory also points to the growing role of AI in supporting fundraisers, helping them build skills while keeping human connection at the center. In this episode, you will be able to: Recognize practical ways to manage anxiety before donor conversations. Learn how validating emotions can reduce stress and improve performance. Understand the role of preparation and practice in building fundraising confid…

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## Transcript

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