Podcast – Episode 9: Is Your Mindset Holding Back Your Fundraising?
Nonprofit leaders often believe myths like “people aren’t giving like they used to” or “auctions don’t raise money anymore.” But Bobby D’s 2025 fundraising season proves otherwise—every single event broke records or exceeded goals.
The real limiter? Mindset.
In this episode, Bobby challenges scarcity thinking, shows how high-net-worth donors view giving, and explains why abundance, preparation, and donor-centered energy drive fundraising success.
Key Takeaways
Myth busted: Generosity hasn’t dried up—mindset is what holds nonprofits back.
Don’t project your wallet onto donors. A $10K gift may feel massive to you, but it can be a “no big deal” for donors with high capacity.
Scarcity sabotages planning. Starting with “what if we can’t…” energy ensures mediocrity. Start with abundance and possibility.
ROI matters. Professional support isn’t a cost—it’s an investment that multiplies results.
Fundraising is about feeling. Donors give when the room feels safe, inspired, and energized.
FULL TRANSCRIPT
Bobby D:
Hey there everyone, Bobby D here with the Auction is Action with U in it! podcast presented by Call to Auction.
Today, I want to tackle a myth I keep hearing: “Donors aren’t as generous as they used to be.” “Auctions don’t raise money anymore.” Well, let me tell you—that’s just not true.
In 2025, from January through June, every single event I was part of met or broke fundraising records. Why? Prior proper planning, and having someone on stage to maximize the opportunity you’ve worked so hard to create.
Here’s the truth: fundraising is unlimited. The only limit is our mindset.
Too often, nonprofit leaders project their own money mindset onto donors. Maybe a $10,000 trip to Greece feels huge to you. But to a high-net-worth donor? That’s a casual purchase—and they’re thrilled it supports a cause.
If we let our scarcity mindset take over—worrying about auction items, presold gifts, or matches before planning even begins—we’re already setting ourselves up to fail. Scarcity thinking kills momentum. Abundance thinking fuels it.
Remember: donors want to give. They want to create impact. They chose to spend one of their 365 nights at your gala. It’s not about tax write-offs—it’s about feeling good, inspired, and connected.
So what do we do?
Put our limiting beliefs aside.
Plan with confidence.
Create a safe, inspired atmosphere where donors feel free to give generously—even irrationally.
That’s how records are broken. That’s how missions get fueled.
So my challenge to you: check your mindset. Don’t pass your scarcity onto your board, your staff, or your donors. Lead with abundance, and watch the results follow.
Thanks again for joining me here on the Auction is Action with U in it! podcast. Like, subscribe, and leave a review. Let’s keep learning how to unlock generosity and raise more together.
All right—see you next time.
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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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