It's Not About the Money: In Search of Grounded Fundraising

By: Heather Winchell and Andy Brennan
  • Summary

  • For us, ministry fundraising is the overflow of a deep sense of purpose. In “It’s Not About the Money”, we look past formulas, and explore both the nuance and the big picture of the fundraising journey. It’s not about tips, tricks, or clever phrasing. It’s about being grounded. Each episode focuses on an aspect of real life as a support-seeker. We hold space for both practice and theory. Join us as we explore the truth that, while the funding is essential, it’s not about the money.

    © 2025 It's Not About the Money: In Search of Grounded Fundraising
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Episodes
  • 49. Sales ≠ Sleazy: Rethinking the S-Word with Bernie Anderson
    Apr 23 2025

    In this episode of It’s Not About the Money, we’re joined by Bernie Anderson—missions leader, podcast host, business consultant, and certified Growability coach. Bernie helps us reframe our ideas around sales and fundraising, showing how sales, when done with integrity and generosity, can become a transformative experience for both the giver and the receiver.

    We talk about why fundraising isn’t a transaction but a transformation, why great fundraisers are great listeners, and how donor alignment is better than manipulation. Bernie shares wisdom on identifying donor personalities, avoiding burnout through authenticity, and how storytelling—done honestly—can drive partnership fruit.

    If you've ever felt awkward "making the ask" or have been burned by manipulative sales tactics, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. Bernie reminds us that fundraising is discipleship, that rejection isn’t failure, and that there’s no such thing as “sacred vs. secular” when you're doing Kingdom work.

    📚 Books + Articles

    1. To Sell Is Human by Daniel H. Pink
      – A modern, research-driven take on how everyone is in sales, whether they realize it or not.
    2. The Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen
      – A short but powerful read framing fundraising as spiritual formation and invitation.

    🎧 Podcasts

    1. The Psychology of Fundraising: Part 1 and Part 2 (Counselor Panel)

    2. NATM Episode 29.5 with Bernie Anderson

    3. Global Trellis Podcast
      – Co-hosted by Bernie Anderson and Amy Young; supports cross-cultural workers in soul care and sustainability.
    4. Growability Podcast
      – Focused on leadership, business development, and nonprofit growth; co-hosted by Bernie.

    If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Follow It’s Not About the Money for more insightful discussions on faith-based fundraising and support raising!

    Get help today! Visit www.provisiofundraising.com

    Follow along @ its.not.about.the.money.pod
    . . . . .
    THANKS FOR LISTENING!

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • 48. It’s Not Impossible: Reframing Fundraising Through Faith and Formation with Tony Dentman
    Apr 16 2025

    “I was probably the wealthiest person in my family when I chose to go into ministry—then I had to go back and ask my family for money.”

    “If God did it in my life, He can do it in yours.”

    “If you’re not willing to be faithful, I can’t do much with you. But if you are—I got you.”

    In this powerful episode, Tony Dentman of Funding Tribe joins hosts Heather and Andy to reframe the soundtrack of “This is impossible.” Tony shares his journey from inner-city St. Louis to full-time ministry, despite having no wealthy or Christian background. He explains how his organization empowers minority leaders to get fully funded and mobilized for mission. The conversation dives deep into character formation, faith-building, and the systemic lie that fundraising success is tied to privilege. A must-listen for anyone who has ever doubted their calling or resources.


    🔗 Show Notes & Resources: fundingtribe.org


    If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Follow It’s Not About the Money for more insightful discussions on faith-based fundraising and support raising!

    Get help today! Visit www.provisiofundraising.com

    Follow along @ its.not.about.the.money.pod
    . . . . .
    THANKS FOR LISTENING!

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    54 mins
  • 47. Fundraising, Fatigue, and the Faith to Keep Going: Dr Mandy on "Is it worth it?"
    Apr 9 2025

    In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Mandy returns to share her ongoing journey in ministry and fundraising. The conversation explores how ministry fundraising transcends mere numbers—it's about personal formation, genuine partnerships, and living out one’s calling. Dr. Mandy recounts her early introduction to support-based ministry, her refreshing re-engagement with longtime partners (including a memorable 5000-mile road trip), and the lessons learned from her leadership challenges. Interwoven with rich Scripture readings (notably from Second Corinthians and other Biblical passages), the discussion offers spiritual encouragement and practical insights on overcoming doubt, resisting the temptation to “fix” everything, and staying true to God’s word. Listeners are encouraged to lean into community, continuously study Scripture, and trust that every step—even the hard ones—is part of a greater divine plan.

    Recommended Resources Mentioned:

    • Perspectives courses (visit perspectives.org)
    • Books: Mountain Rain by Eileen Fraser Crossman and The Prayer of Faith by James O. Fraser
    • Scripture study tools: Logos, NAVS, Precept.org

    Other Scripture for Reference:

    • Revelation 15:3
    • 1 Chronicles 29:11-13
    • 1 Chronicles 16:31
    • Psalm 9:7-10
    • Psalm 103:19-22
    • Psalm 96
    • Psalm 93:1-5
    • 1 Timothy 1:17
    • 1 Timothy 6:15-16
    • Isaiah 44:6-9
    • Psalm 145:8-13
    • 1 Corinthians 15:20-28
    • Zechariah 9:9
    • John 18:36-37
    • Hebrews 1:3-4
    • Hebrews 1:8-12

    If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. Follow It’s Not About the Money for more insightful discussions on faith-based fundraising and support raising!

    Get help today! Visit www.provisiofundraising.com

    Follow along @ its.not.about.the.money.pod
    . . . . .
    THANKS FOR LISTENING!

    Show More Show Less
    50 mins

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