Podcast – Episode 12: No More Baskets of Bullsh!t
In this episode of Auction is Action with U in it!, host Bobby D. Ehlert delivers a refreshing—and much-needed—wake-up call for nonprofit event planners: your fundraising success is not about baskets of stuff.
From silent auction overload to volunteer burnout, Bobby explains why baskets are often the biggest distraction at fundraising events—and what actually drives generosity instead. This conversation cuts through the noise and refocuses your energy on mission, momentum, and meaningful donor relationships.
If you’re a nonprofit leader, development director, or event chair, you’ll walk away knowing how to:
Reduce event stress and volunteer overwhelm
Redirect effort toward strategies that actually raise money
Build momentum through paddle raises and live auction experiences
Key Takeaways
Baskets don’t raise money—mission does. Fundraising is about transformation, not stuff.
Over-focusing on auction items creates unnecessary stress. Cellophane, bows, and baskets drain time without delivering ROI.
Pre-secured lead gifts fuel paddle raise momentum. They spark generosity and set the tone for the room.
Matching gifts amplify impact. Strategic matches create urgency and excitement during the paddle raise.
Curated live auction experiences outperform generic items. Unique, one-of-a-kind experiences inspire higher bids and deeper engagement.
FULL TRANSCRIPT
Bobby D.:
Hey there, everyone. Bobby D. here with the Auction is Action with U in it! podcast. Thank you so much for listening.
Today’s episode is full of… well, not action exactly—but clarity. We’re talking about why you don’t need baskets of bullsh!t at your fundraising event.
So many nonprofits feel pressure to gather baskets, wrap them in cellophane, add bows, and stress about getting more stuff. But here’s the truth: your baskets are not what raise money.
Your mission is the shining star of your fundraising event—not baskets of bull.
Fundraising Isn’t About the Stuff
Yes, you can use baskets:
Raffles
Fishbowl raffles
Silent auction items
Golden ticket giveaways
But you don’t need them.
For nonprofit professionals, event organizers, and volunteers—please hear this: don’t stress. Fundraising is not about stuff. Fundraising is about transformation.
When you focus all your energy on collecting, wrapping, and managing items, you’re putting pressure in the wrong place.
Focus on What Actually Matters
What matters is your mission and storytelling.
At your event:
Who is speaking?
What stories are being told?
What video is tugging at heartstrings?
How are you inviting generosity in the room?
That’s where money is raised—not in the baskets.
Paddle Raise Momentum Starts Before the Event
One of the most powerful tools you have is pre-secured lead gifts. These are donors who:
Have given before
Give throughout the year
Are planning a significant future gift
Invite them to be the spark of generosity during your paddle raise. Their leadership builds confidence and momentum.
Leverage Matching Gifts
If you have a major donor who wants to maximize impact, offer them the chance to match:
A specific giving level
The next number of paddles raised
A paddle drop or giving moment
Matching gifts create urgency and excitement—and they focus attention on generosity, not stuff.
Live Auction Experiences Win Every Time
If you’re hosting a live auction, this is where your energy should go. Not baskets—but curated experiences:
Travel or adventure packages
Sporting events with VIP access
In-home chef experiences
One-of-a-kind moments donors can’t buy anywhere else
These experiences consistently outperform generic items because they’re memorable and emotionally engaging.
It’s About Relationships
If you’re stressing over baskets, you’re focusing on the wrong thing. Your event is about:
Paddle raises
Live auctions
Relationship-building
This is where you discover future board members, volunteers, and long-term supporters.
It’s not about baskets of BS.
It’s about people, purpose, and connection.
Thank you so much for watching and listening. Remember—auction is action with YOU in it.
Ready to Raise More?
At Call to Auction, Ready to Raise More? We specialize in turning galas and fundraising events into mission-driven, revenue-generating experiences. From paddle raises to live auctions, our team knows how to excite donors, engage audiences, and inspire generosity in the moment.
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