Episodios

  • Ep 316 | How to Use AI to Repurpose your Content with TJ Robertson
    Aug 26 2025

    Are you making the most of your nonprofit's content? In this episode, I sit down with TJ Robertson, founder of TJ Digital, to explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize your content repurposing strategy. We discuss innovative ways to leverage AI tools that can help you connect with donors, save time, and stretch your budget.

    Harnessing AI for Efficient Content Repurposing
    TJ shares insights on:
    - Creating a comprehensive brand guide using AI assistance
    - Developing a “brand ambassador” AI to maintain consistency across teams
    - Turning one piece of content into multiple formats for various platforms
    - Overcoming the fear of on-camera content creation

    Practical Applications for Nonprofits
    Discover how AI can help you:
    - Craft consistent messaging across different departments
    - Repurpose video content into blog posts, social media updates, and more
    - Streamline your content creation process
    - Expand your reach with multi-platform distribution

    Addressing Common Concerns
    We tackle important questions about:
    - Getting started with AI tools if you're feeling behind
    - Maintaining authenticity when using AI-generated content
    - Balancing efficiency with quality in your content strategy

    Building Trust Through Video Content
    TJ recommends practical strategies for:
    - Overcoming camera shyness and creating authentic video content
    - Leveraging short-form video to stand out in a crowded digital landscape
    - Using video to build trust with your audience at scale

    Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you leverage technology in your nonprofit's content strategy. Learn how to create more engaging content, save time, and stretch your resources further.

    Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways:
    06:28 Creating a Brand Bible with AI Learn how to develop a comprehensive guide for consistent messaging across your organization.

    12:47 Repurposing Content Across Platforms Discover how to turn one piece of content into multiple formats for maximum reach.

    19:36 Overcoming Video Content Hesitation Explore strategies for creating authentic video content that builds trust with your audience.

    26:15 Integrating AI into Your Workflow Understand how to incorporate AI tools into your daily tasks for increased efficiency.

    Don't miss this opportunity to learn how you can ethically and effectively utilize AI to amplify your nonprofit's message and reach more supporters. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to content creation and distribution.

    TJ Robertson
    Meet TJ Robertson, founder of TJ Digital—an agency dedicated to helping small and medium businesses stand out in today’s AI-driven world. With 16 years in digital marketing, TJ is passionate about transparency, results, and making sure clients show up where it matters most: in AI-powered platforms like Google, ChatGPT, and TikTok. Outside of work, he’s a husband, dad of three, and a fan of board games and camping.

    Learn more at tjrobertson.com
    https://www.youtube.com/@UCXo0fazQabsLonrHH4t9fBg
    https://www.instagram.com/tjrobertsondigital/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-robertson-seo/
    https://www.tiktok.com/@tjrobertson52?refer=creator_embed
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-robertson-seo/

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    31 m
  • Ep 315 | Mindset Reset
    Aug 19 2025

    Are you feeling overwhelmed as you gear up for the busy season? In this solo episode, I'm here to offer a much-needed pep talk and share some powerful mindset shifts to help you navigate the challenges ahead. As we transition from summer mode to year-end campaigns, it's crucial to approach our work with renewed focus and energy.

    Embracing Imperfection in Your Nonprofit's Communications
    Let's talk about the paralyzing effects of perfectionism and how it can hinder your progress. I share:
    - Why minor mistakes in emails or social media posts aren't the end of the world
    - How to turn communication mishaps into opportunities for engagement
    - The importance of moving forward despite imperfections

    Harnessing the Power of Collaboration
    Drawing inspiration from recent marketing phenomena, we explore:
    - Strategies for creating buzz around your campaigns through partnerships
    - How to make it easy for collaborators to amplify your message
    - The impact of coordinated marketing efforts in your local community

    Staying True to Your Foundation
    When things get hectic, it's essential to:
    - Focus on consistent, foundational activities that drive long-term success
    - Avoid getting caught up in the comparison game
    - Remember that small, daily actions lead to significant results over time

    Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways.
    06:22 Turning Mistakes into Opportunities Learn how to reframe communication errors as chances for deeper donor engagement.

    12:15 Collaborative Marketing Strategies Discover ways to create a ripple effect in your community through strategic partnerships.

    19:30 Maintaining Focus on Core Activities Understand the importance of consistent, foundational work in achieving your nonprofit's goals.

    Don't miss this opportunity to reset your mindset and approach the busy season with renewed clarity and purpose. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your perspective on nonprofit leadership and impact.

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    13 m
  • Ep 314 | Connecting with Your Website Visitors with Abby James
    Aug 12 2025

    Are you making the most of your website visitors? In this episode, I sit down with Abby James from Nonprofit Megaphone to explore innovative ways to connect with people who've shown interest in your organization. We discuss how to leverage website visitor data ethically and effectively to grow your supporter base and enhance your fundraising efforts.

    Overcoming the “Creepy Factor”
    Abby shares insights on:
    - Why collecting visitor information isn't as invasive as you might think
    - How to approach outreach in a way that feels authentic and valuable
    - Balancing personalization with privacy concerns

    Practical Strategies for Engagement
    Discover actionable advice for nurturing relationships with website visitors:
    - Crafting a welcoming initial email that sets clear expectations
    - Developing a consistent communication strategy beyond the first contact
    - Using segmentation to tailor your messaging effectively

    Maximizing the Value of Visitor Data
    Learn how to:
    - Identify potential business partners and volunteers from your website traffic
    - Use visitor information to refine your programs and services
    - Leverage data for both online and offline marketing efforts

    Getting Started with Visitor Engagement
    We address key considerations for implementing a visitor outreach strategy:
    - Essential tools and platforms to simplify the process
    - How to involve different departments in utilizing visitor data
    - Setting clear goals for your engagement funnel

    Whether you're new to digital marketing or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you turn website visits into meaningful connections and support for your mission.

    Want to skip ahead? Here are some key moments:
    05:40 Ethical Considerations Explore the balance between personalization and privacy in visitor outreach.

    12:15 Crafting Effective Welcome Emails Learn how to make a strong first impression that encourages further engagement.

    19:30 Data-Driven Decision Making Discover how visitor information can inform your organizational strategy and program development.

    26:45 Building a Sustainable Engagement Funnel Understand how to create a journey that guides visitors towards deeper involvement with your nonprofit.

    Don't miss this opportunity to learn how you can ethically and effectively utilize your website visitor data to grow your nonprofit's impact. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to supporter engagement and fundraising.

    Abby James
    Abby has been immersed in the Google Ad Grant world for over 5 years, holding various positions at Nonprofit Megaphone. Nonprofit Megaphone is a Google Certified Partner and manages more than 750 Google Ad Grant accounts for nonprofits. With her experience in managing accounts and background in marketing and development, she now consults with nonprofits every day on how to fully utilize this program and amplify their missions!

    Learn more at nonprofitmegaphone.com
    https://www.facebook.com/nonprofitmegaphone/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofitmegaphone

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    30 m
  • Ep 313 | Setting a Strong Search Engine Strategy for Long Term Growth with Steven Schneider
    Aug 5 2025

    Are you struggling to attract more visitors to your nonprofit's website? In this episode, I sit down with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO, to explore the power of search engine optimization (SEO) for mission-driven organizations. We discuss why SEO is a crucial long-term strategy for increasing your online visibility and connecting with potential donors and supporters.

    Building a Foundation for Sustainable Growth
    Steven shares insights on:
    - Why SEO is like investing in your retirement account for your nonprofit
    - The importance of patience and consistency in your SEO efforts
    - How to balance short-term paid strategies with long-term organic growth

    Practical SEO Strategies for Nonprofits
    Discover actionable advice for improving your website's search rankings:
    - Crafting content that aligns with what your audience is actually searching for
    - Leveraging free tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics
    - Optimizing your Google Business Profile for local nonprofits

    Measuring Success and Adapting Your Approach
    Learn how to:
    - Track your SEO progress using key metrics and tools
    - Identify which content is resonating with your audience
    - Adjust your strategy based on real data and user behavior

    Overcoming Common SEO Challenges
    We address potential hurdles in implementing an SEO strategy:
    - Balancing SEO efforts with other marketing priorities
    - Staying motivated during the initial “sandbox” period for new websites
    - Adapting to changes in search engine algorithms and user behavior

    Whether you're new to SEO or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you increase your nonprofit's online visibility and connect with more supporters.

    Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways:
    06:28 Understanding Organic vs. Paid Traffic Learn the difference between organic search results and paid advertising, and how they can work together in your digital strategy.

    12:15 Essential SEO Tools for Nonprofits Discover free and paid resources to help you research keywords, analyze your website's performance, and track your progress.

    19:36 Creating Content That Ranks Explore strategies for developing blog posts and web pages that address your audience's needs and align with popular search terms.

    26:15 Optimizing for Local Search Understand how to leverage your Google Business Profile to improve visibility for local nonprofits and events.

    Don't miss this opportunity to learn how SEO can help your nonprofit reach more people and make a bigger impact. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to online visibility and donor engagement.

    Resources
    Google Ad Grant: https://www.google.com/grants/
    Google Search Console & Analytics: https://search.google.com/search-console/about
    SEMRush: https://www.semrush.com/
    Ahrefs: https://ahrefs.com/

    Steven Schneider
    Steven is co-founder and CEO at TrioSEO, an agency that helps B2B brands design and implement ROI-focused SEO strategies.

    Before TrioSEO, he co-owned a portfolio of 40 blogs, managed 400 articles monthly, and scaled to 7 figures via SEO – no paid ads, social media, or other strategies.

    Today, TrioSEO creates content that converts browsers into buyers. Their team manages everything – the process is 100% hands-off for founders and CMOs

    Learn more at TrioSEO.com
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/schneis/

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    31 m
  • Ep 312 | Setting up Task Automations for Increased Productivity with Karen King
    Jul 29 2025

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by your nonprofit's workload? In this episode, I sit down with Karen King, founder of Gold Star Pro, to explore how automation can revolutionize your organization's productivity and give you back precious time to focus on your mission.

    Embracing Automation Without Losing the Human Touch
    Karen shares valuable insights on:
    - Why automation doesn't mean depersonalization
    - How to create personalized experiences at scale
    - Balancing efficiency with authenticity in your communications

    Streamlining Your Nonprofit's Processes
    Discover practical strategies for:
    - Identifying tasks that can be automated
    - Creating a roadmap for implementing automation
    - Leveraging data to make informed decisions

    Overcoming Common Automation Hurdles
    We address key concerns, including:
    - Maintaining consistency in your messaging
    - Ensuring quality control in automated processes
    - Freeing up time for strategic thinking and creativity

    Getting Started with Automation
    Learn how to:
    - Map out your current processes
    - Identify areas for improvement
    - Choose the right tools for your organization's needs

    Whether you're a small grassroots organization or an established nonprofit, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on how to work smarter, not harder. Don't miss this opportunity to explore strategies that could transform your approach to productivity and impact.

    Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways:
    06:28 Mapping Your Processes Learn why creating a roadmap is crucial before implementing any automation tools.

    12:47 Personalization in Automation Discover how to maintain a human touch while leveraging technology for efficiency.

    19:36 Data-Driven Decision Making Explore how automation can provide valuable insights to guide your strategy.

    26:15 Consistency and Trust-Building Understand how automation can help you maintain a consistent presence and build trust with your audience.

    Don't let burnout hold your nonprofit back. Tune in to learn how automation can help you create more impact while reclaiming your time and energy.

    Resources
    Worldschooling Central: A community founded by Karen King, helping families educate their children through travel.: https://www.worldschoolingcentral.com/

    The Escapepreneur: Another program by Karen King, teaching entrepreneurs how to design businesses that fund their ideal lifestyle.: https://www.theescapepreneur.com/

    Karen King
    Karen King is a visionary entrepreneur, world traveler, and founder of Gold Star Pro—a platform and coaching program designed to help solopreneurs and coaches build scalable, location-independent businesses. With over a decade of experience in technology coaching and marketing, Karen specializes in simplifying business automation so her clients can focus on creating freedom, not just revenue.

    After leaving corporate burnout behind, Karen sold everything to travel the world with her family, embracing a “world schooling” lifestyle for nearly a decade. This journey inspired her to launch Worldschooling Central, a 13,000-member community helping families educate their children through travel. Now, she merges her expertise in business automation with her passion for freedom through The Escapreneur Movement—a program teaching entrepreneurs how to design businesses that fund their ideal lifestyles.

    Learn more at usegoldstar.com
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/worldschoolingcentral
    https://www.instagram.com/gold.star.pro/
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-e-king/


    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    34 m
  • Ep 311 | Using AI To Support Video Creation with John Gargiulo
    Jul 22 2025

    Are you struggling to create engaging video content for your nonprofit? In this episode, I sit down with John Gargiulo, founder and CEO of Air Post, to explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize your video production process. We discuss innovative ways to leverage AI tools that can help you connect with donors, save time, and stretch your budget.

    Harnessing AI for Impactful Video Creation
    John shares insights on:
    - Using AI to generate realistic video content from text prompts
    - Repurposing existing footage with AI-powered editing tools
    - Creating personalized video messages at scale
    - Translating video content into multiple languages effortlessly

    Practical Applications for Nonprofits
    Discover how AI can help you:
    - Craft compelling fundraising event videos
    - Produce Netflix-quality content on a shoestring budget
    - Streamline your video editing process
    - Expand your reach with multilingual content

    Addressing Ethical Concerns
    We tackle important questions about:
    - Maintaining authenticity when using AI-generated content
    - Balancing efficiency with transparency
    - Communicating your use of AI tools to stakeholders

    Getting Started with AI Video Tools
    John recommends practical tools for:
    - Creating AI avatars for spokesperson videos
    - Enhancing video quality and removing filler words
    - Generating storyboards and scripts

    Whether you're a seasoned video creator or just starting out, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you leverage AI in your nonprofit's video strategy. Learn how to create more engaging content, save time, and stretch your resources further.

    What to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways:
    03:54 The Excitement of AI in Video Production There have been rapid advancements in AI video technology, especially with Google's VO3 as a significant leap forward. AI can now create realistic videos with sound, opening up new possibilities for content creation.

    06:22 Authentic Use of AI in Nonprofit Video Production You can use AI to repurpose existing footage, create personalized videos, and translate content into multiple languages. This allows for better efficiency and expanded reach.

    12:40 The Future of AI in Video Production AI is revolutionizing video production, replacing traditional methods. AI helps you create high-quality, Netflix-level content at the click of a button, opening up new possibilities for nonprofits to create compelling video narratives.

    15:54 AI Tools and Job Security in Content Creation AI won't replace human creativity but will act as a highly capable assistant. Human input in content creation will always be critical.

    19:21 Recommended AI Video Tools and Final Thoughts There are several AI video tools for different purposes, from caption generation to avatar creation. Experiment with AI tools and communicate with them effectively.

    John Gargiulo
    Founder and CEO of Airpost, an AI-driven platform automating video ad production. Former Global
    Product Marketing Lead at Airbnb, where he launched and scaled new products and features for millions of hosts and guests.
    Seasoned marketer with over 15 years of experience in creative direction, digital marketing, and online advertising.
    Frequent speaker on the future of AI in marketing, user-generated content, and advanced creative strategies for consumer brands in ecommerce, fintech, and mobile

    Learn more at Airpost.ai
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gargiulo/

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    25 m
  • Ep 310 | Tips for Event Fundraising in 2025 with Roger Devine
    Jul 15 2025

    Are you looking to boost your nonprofit's fundraising efforts and connect with more donors? In this episode, I sit down with Roger Devine, co-founder of SchoolAuction.net, to explore the power of event fundraising in 2025 and beyond.

    Roger shares his wealth of experience in helping organizations create successful fundraising events, from galas to golf tournaments. We discuss why events are becoming increasingly important for nonprofits of all sizes, especially in an uncertain funding landscape.

    Crafting Events That Resonate
    Discover practical strategies for:
    - Tailoring your event to your specific audience
    - Balancing cost-effectiveness with donor expectations
    - Leveraging technology to streamline your auction process

    Maximizing Impact Without Breaking the Bank
    Roger offers insights on:
    - Creative alternatives to traditional galas
    - Engaging donors through interactive experiences
    - Using data to inform your event planning decisions

    Building Long-Term Fundraising Success
    Learn how to:
    - Create a sustainable event strategy that grows with your organization
    - Use software to build institutional memory and improve year-over-year results
    - Balance the needs of different stakeholders in your event planning process

    Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to event planning, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you create memorable experiences that inspire generosity and build lasting relationships with your supporters.

    Want to Skip Ahead? Here are Some Key Takeaways:
    05:40 Tailoring Events to Your Audience Learn how to research and design events that resonate with your specific donor base.

    12:15 Leveraging Technology for Better Results Discover how software can help you track data, improve decision-making, and streamline your event processes.

    19:30 Creative Fundraising Ideas Explore unique event concepts that can energize your supporters and set you apart from traditional galas.

    26:45 Building a Sustainable Event Strategy Understand how to create an event program that grows with your organization and adapts to changing donor needs.


    Roger Devine
    Roger Devine has led a life based on service, communication, education, and entrepreneurship. As the co-founder of SchoolAuction.net, he has spent the past 20 years assisting and advising local and national nonprofit organizations and charities on how to grow their programs and ensure financial stability through fundraising events, such as gala auctions, golf tournaments, and trivia nights.

    In addition to assisting organizations across the country, Roger has personally chaired dozens of fundraising events for his kid's schools, his Rotary Club, and Pacific Northwest nonprofits focused on causes such as building schools in rural communities, matching US military veterans with service dogs, and pandemic relief.

    Learn more at schoolauction.net

    Sign up for a FREE Trail: https://my.schoolauction.net/registrations/new?product_id=281&aff_id=firstclick

    https://www.facebook.com/SchoolAuction
    https://www.pinterest.com/schoolauction/
    https://www.instagram.com/SchoolAuction/
    https://twitter.com/schoolauction?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    36 m
  • Ep 309 | AI Misconceptions with Aarti Anand
    Jul 8 2025

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by the buzz around AI and wondering how it fits into your nonprofit's digital strategy? In this episode, I sit down with Arti Anand, an AI automation expert, to demystify the role of artificial intelligence in personalizing donor engagement and streamlining operations.

    Embracing AI Without Losing the Human Touch
    - How AI can enhance, not replace, genuine connections with donors
    - Strategies for maintaining authenticity while leveraging automation
    - The importance of transparency when implementing AI tools

    Practical Applications for Nonprofits
    - Using AI for efficient proposal generation and follow-ups
    - Implementing AI voice agents for improved donor communication
    - Leveraging ChatGPT for problem-solving and strategic planning

    Overcoming Implementation Challenges
    - Start small and iterate your AI strategy
    - Train AI tools effectively using your organization's unique data
    - Balance automation with human oversight for optimal results

    Addressing Common Concerns
    - Maintaining personalization in automated communications
    - Ensuring AI aligns with your nonprofit's values and mission
    - Communicating the benefits of AI to donors and stakeholders

    Whether you're AI-curious or skeptical, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape of nonprofit technology. Discover how embracing AI can free up your team to focus on what matters most – making a meaningful impact in your community.

    Want to Skip Ahead? Here are Some Key Takeaways:
    03:31 AI as a Tool for Personal and Business Growth It is important to identify what brings joy and generates income, then using AI and automation to handle necessary tasks that don't fall into those categories. This approach allows for better time management and increased productivity.

    11:05 Balancing Automation and Personalization There are concerns about AI and automation leading to depersonalization. Start with what works manually, then automate 80% of it. This approach saves time and increases productivity while still maintaining quality through human supervision. Pay attention to the iterative nature of implementing AI solutions in business.

    18:20 Understanding AI Agents and Their Applications There are different types of automations, including linear, AI-powered, and AI agents. AI agents can be used in businesses, such as replacing receptionists for appointment booking. It's important to have proper training and data input for effective AI implementation.

    24:26 Transparency and Practical Implementation of AI Transparency is so important when using AI in organizations. Communicate the use of AI to stakeholders, emphasizing its benefits. Attach AI implementation to specific outcomes that solve pain points for users.

    28:10 Getting Started with AI in Business Start by describing the problem and desired outcome to ChatGPT, then consulting with multiple vendors. The importance of asking the right questions and starting with a proof of concept is important.

    Don't miss this opportunity to gain practical knowledge on harnessing AI to enhance your nonprofit's efficiency and donor engagement. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to digital strategy and fundraising.

    Resources
    Follow Aarti on Insta and DM her FC-Pod to receive her playbook to adopt AI.

    Aarti Anand
    After years of building SaaS products, Aarti saw businesses wasting time on outdated, manual prospecting and thought, “This is broken.” With AI on the rise, she knew the answer wasn't more outreach—it was smarter automation.

    Now, Aarti is on a mission to help businesses ditch the grind and scale faster. No more chasing leads that go nowhere—just an AI-driven system that works while you sleep.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/aartianand82/
    https://www.instagram.com/aartianand82/

    Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click
    Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net
    Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    Más Menos
    35 m