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The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast

The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast

By: Brad Layland CEO of The Focus Group
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Taking Donors Seriously® is a time-tested, sustainable framework for relational fundraising. Hundreds of nonprofits and schools have used TDS over 30+ years to successfully raise the funds that are critical to their missions. Brad Layland, CEO of The FOCUS Group shares insight, stories, and tips on this podcast.2020 Brad Layland Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • 153 Years of Hope: Fighting Homelessness in NYC
    Oct 27 2025

    In this episode Brad Layland interviews James Winans, CEO of the Bowery Mission, discussing his journey from intern to CEO, the mission's response to homelessness in New York City, and the challenges faced during the pandemic. They explore the importance of community, the role of faith in leadership, and effective fundraising strategies. James shares insights on balancing family and work, the need for collaboration in fundraising, and the vision for the future of the Bowery Mission.

    The Bowery Mission
    https://www.bowery.org/

    Book Recommendation
    The Island at the Center of the World: The Epic Story of Dutch Manhattan and the Forgotten Colony That Shaped America, by Russell Shorto

    Brad's Marathon Link
    https://my.bowery.org/fundraiser/6464857

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    35 mins
  • Leading a College On Top of a Hill
    Oct 13 2025

    In this conversation, Brad Voyles, the president of Covenant College, shares his journey to leadership, the distinctives of the college, and the importance of community and student experience. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with growth, particularly in light of the recent Partners Campaign aimed at enhancing student enrollment and experience. The conversation also explores the relational aspect of leadership and the significance of maintaining a Christ-centered education. Brad concludes by sharing insights on books that have influenced his perspective.

    Covenant College
    https://covenant.edu

    Books:
    Living Life Backward: How Ecclesiastes Teaches Us to Live in Light of the End, by David Gibson. Project Hail Mary, by Andy Weir

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    29 mins
  • Answering Hudson Taylor's Challenge
    Sep 30 2025

    In this episode of the Taking Donors Seriously podcast, Brad Layland interviews Justin Burkholder, the International Director of Team, a mission-sending organization with a rich history of over 135 years. They discuss the legacy of Team, the challenges of funding and measuring impact, and Justin's personal journey as a missionary kid. The conversation highlights success stories from the field, future aspirations for sending more missionaries, and the importance of leadership and education in mission work.

    Website: https://www.team.org/

    Books:
    The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman
    The Missionary Movement in Christian History by Andrew Walls

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    35 mins
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