Episode Details

Today I sit down with my very first manager in higher ed fundraising, Jim Mahoney. Jim was the one who pushed me to make my first big solicitation—knowing full well the donor would probably turn me down—just so I could learn what it feels like to ask boldly.

Now the Vice President for Development at Adrian College, Jim shares his journey from student phonathon caller to leading advancement efforts at two institutions. We talk about the small-world connections that open doors in fundraising, the mentors who shape our paths, and the early experiences that build resilience in the face of rejection.

Jim also tells the story of his very first major gift ask, the lesson he learned about spotting the “window of opportunity,” and how missing it taught him something more valuable than a yes ever could.

Be sure to tune in after the holiday break to hear part two, where Jim explains how he recovered from that early stumble and built a successful career in major gifts.