Branding is about far more than just slick, eye-catching aesthetics.What truly transforms an organization is a brand built on vision and strategy. Without a clear strategy, positioning, and messaging, the aesthetic elements like logos, fonts, and colors won’t do anything to create lasting impact.Branding goes beyond visuals. It’s about aligning every aspect of the organization with its purpose, values, and audience.A successful rebrand requires more than just a great logo—it demands a strategic mix of:→ Brand Strategy→ Positioning and differentiation→ Messaging→ And, of course, the aesthetic elements like fonts, colors, photography, and logosIn this episode, we break down the difference between approaching branding as a purely aesthetic exercise versus a deeply strategic process, and how a well-thought-out rebrand can help your social impact organization create meaningful change.Episode Highlights[00:00] Introduction to the Branding Spectrum [01:01] Cosmetic vs. Strategic Branding[04:40] Color and Visual Identity [09:27] Tone, Voice, and Messaging [12:21] Target Audience and Niche [16:11] Mission, Vision, and Values Quotes“A really good brand should hit a lot of different points on the spectrum from cosmetic to strategic.” - Eric Ressler [00:30]“Logos are absolutely important, but all of the other things that make a brand are significantly more important than the logo.” - Eric Ressler [01:41]“The logo can be very powerful as a symbol or a fingerprint for your brand, but it is not your full brand.” - Eric Ressler [02:37]“Sometimes we can hide behind the work we put into the logo a little bit. It carries no weight or purpose if you’re not backing it up with real world action.” - Jonathan Hicken [03:48]“Potentially getting your audience right is one of the most difficult steps in this process.” - Jonathan Hicken [13:14]“Target audience is one of the very first things we do. It’s very preliminary in our work.” - Eric Ressler [13:20]“The number one thing I wish I would have been ready to do going into rebranding efforts was be prepared to adjust the mission and vision and values.” - Jonathan Hicken [18:23]Resources:In Depth: Social Impact Branding Navigating a Rebrand: Nine Common Mistakes to AvoidWant to Scale Your Social Impact? Your Brand is the FuelBeyond Aesthetics: The ROI of Brand Building*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Do you ever feel like you’re just STUCK?Like no matter what you try or how hard you work you just can’t seem to get traction?We’ve all been there before, and it’s NOT a fun space to be in. Here’s the thing: there are going to be sticking points in your social impact journey. That’s pretty much guaranteed. What worked on day 1 — or year 1 —  won’t necessarily work for year 3, or year 5. What worked when you were brand new and had a $500k annual operating budget won’t work to get you from $5m/yr to $50m/yr.But there’s a powerful way to overcome these sticking points: Learn to build a social impact flywheel.A flywheel takes some initial effort to start and spin up, but then it builds momentum and continues to propel your work forward with minimal effort once it’s going. You can’t just build one big impact flywheel. You need to build a bunch of them that all work together. Jonathan and Eric go into this in detail in our latest episode of Designing Tomorrow. If you’re feeling stuck right now, you don’t want to miss this one.Episode Highlights[01:11] - Flywheel concept from Good to Great and its relevance to social impact[05:27] - Positive feedback loops and their application in social impact organizations[06:16] - Creating positive feedback loops and examples of effective stakeholder engagement[09:38] - Importance of showing the impact of financial contributions[12:05] - Providing immediate feedback for donors and participants[14:06] - Immediate feedback to help maintain donor and participant engagement[20:21] - The idea of multi-threaded value to enhance retention and momentumQuotes"I think the idea and the concept of a flywheel is very alluring, right? Because it's like, okay, if we can get this flywheel built and we do all this effort at some point it starts to build its own momentum and then we can, you know, reduce the effort." - Eric Ressler [03:25]"One of the mistakes that we make most commonly, and I think one that if we correct it would get that positive feedback loop going, get that flywheel turning is to make this feedback more immediate." - Jonathan Hicken [14:06]Resources:Article - How To Power Up Your Content Strategy When You’re Short on Time and StaffArticle - How to Increase Supporter and Donor Action Using an Engagement PyramidArticle - Nonprofits, Master the 3 Pillars of Digital Engagement for Maximum Social ImpactArticle - How to Build a Next-level Content StrategyGood to Great - by James C. Collins  AllBirds*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Far too many social impact orgs are giving their power away — and they don’t even know they’re doing it. There’s a fundamental tension in the social impact space. A tension between the generosity that powers this sector and the need for social impact brands to leverage their power so they can make a true impact. But when this healthy tension strays out of balance — in either direction — the results can be disastrous. Relying solely on the generosity of your supporters leads to the common “hat in hand” position that leaves many incredible organizations begging for money/resources and stuck in the scarcity mindset/starvation cycle. Too much focus on power (this is rarer, but it does happen) means that bigger, more established organizations suck up resources and leave smaller (and sometimes more impactful) orgs begging for the scraps of available funding within an issue area. And giving your power away can happen with the smallest of well-intentioned actions. From how you craft your donation appeals, to how you position yourself in your niche, to how you develop your team’s internal culture. Today, Jonathan and Eric break down all the ways that social impact orgs are unknowingly giving their power away and how to strike a healthy balance between the generosity that powers your work and strength in your approach to reaching your mission.Have you ever felt like you’ve given your power away, or felt powerless in your social impact work? Then this episode is a must listen.Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your favorite podcasts.Episode Highlights[00:00] - Introduction and Topic Setup[01:15] - Exploring Power in Social Impact[02:24] - Personal Experiences with Power Dynamics[04:05] - The Power Crisis in Social Impact[06:04] - The Trap of Transactional Marketing[12:00] - Brand Building as a Power Tool[08:01] - Balancing Values with Financial Necessity[14:47] - The Importance of Credibility and ReputationQuotes"Power really is the ability to influence behavior or change the course of events, and when used wisely, it can shape the future, especially in the social impact space." - Eric Ressler [01:15]"As an executive director and marketer, questions of power often arise in conversations with influential stakeholders, whose power could move the needle significantly for the organization I serve." - Jonathan Hicken [02:24]"One big way that social impact organizations are giving their power away is by practicing transactional marketing and fundraising, which might hit short-term goals but comes with long-term costs." - Eric Ressler [06:04]"Another side effect of too much transactional marketing is that it becomes about the organization rather than the impact you're seeking, which dilutes your power." - Jonathan Hicken [06:32]"Building a solid brand and marketing muscle can help your organization build credibility and authority, which opens up new opportunities, resources, and, ultimately, power." - Eric Ressler [15:10]Resources:Article - Brand Building: An Authentic Approach to Growing a Fierce, Loyal, and Supportive Community*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Core brand values aren’t just fluffy words you put on posters. But without the right approach, that’s all they’ll ever be. Core brand values — when done right — can be absolutely transformative for your organization’s culture, effectiveness, and impact. But you can’t just come up with 5 words that all start with the letter “R” and call it a day. So how do you create core values for your brand that ACTUALLY make a meaningful impact for your team? Jonathan and Eric have some ideas — and some things to watch out for — in this week’s episode of Designing Tomorrow. Episode Highlights[00:00] Discussing a disappointing experience at a museum and how it led Jonathan to reflect on the importance of core values[01:32] This episode is for executive directors and board members looking to build meaningful core values[03:39] First tip: Core values should be easy to remember and not lame to repeat, using his organization's value "Find Out" as an example[05:54] The importance of backing core values with specific behaviors and evaluating them regularly[07:34] Emphasizing the need for continuous evaluation, suggesting quarterly reviews rather than annual ones[09:35] The fluidity of core values and the necessity of adapting them as an organization evolves[11:35] Fifth tip: Use core values as a foundation for hiring decisions and team building[14:23] Focus on one core value per year to allow teams to deeply integrate and embody itQuotes"I've seen a lot of core values out there, and I'm not really sure how many of them are actually enacted by their organization." - Eric Ressler [01:00]"Core values need to be easy to remember or not lame to repeat. It has to be something that somebody would actually say in their day-to-day life." - Jonathan Hicken [03:39]"You have to back these values with specific behaviors...what does a five out of five on the 'Find Out' value actually look like when you show up to work?" - Jonathan Hicken [05:54]"To me, these are the brand values, but to you, they're the team values. I think they're the same thing." - Eric Ressler [10:18]"When these values are done excellently, it’s clear how they’re driving impact." - Jonathan Hicken [10:29]"I challenge you to think about how the brand, the rebrand, the strategic plan you’re putting together, makes its way to your team and what that’s going to look like in people's day-to-day jobs." - Jonathan Hicken [13:56]Resources:Article - Nail Your Brand Strategy with this Simple FrameworkVideo - Demystifying Strategic Planning: Insights from a Seasoned ExpertArticle - Create Better Social Impact Messaging by Finding Your Brand Voice*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

What makes an EXCEPTIONAL social impact marketing team?Often, when we get this question from clients, they are trying to determine what ROLES to hire for. But that’s putting the cart before the horse. Instead, it’s best to think about the QUALITIES and CULTURE of a successful marketing philosophy for your brand. Because you can build a highly-skilled marketing team and still totally flop if:↳ You don’t have vision as a brand↳ You don’t let them create BOLD, scroll-stopping content↳ You micro-manage and add arduous approval processesIn today’s episode of Designing Tomorrow, Eric distill’s what he’s seen work the best when building out your in-house marketing team at your social impact org. And at the end, he outlines how he would structure the marketing department for social impact orgs at different sizes. Jonathan STRONGLY disagrees with his recommendations at first, but starts to come around towards the end. Eric hopes to get him eventually. Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Episode Highlights[02:15] - The importance of brand strategy[05:05] - Knowing your audience deeply [07:55] - Creating scroll-stopping content [13:42] - Balancing cadence and quality [17:14] - Evaluation and curiosity in marketing [20:45] - The role of leadership in marketing success [22:47] - Building marketing teams across different organizational sizes [24:26] - The role of content in marketing[28:06] - In-house capacity vs. agency support [31:54] - Challenges of scaling a marketing teamQuotes:"You have to understand who you're talking to. Who are you actually speaking to, who's reading this?" - Jonathan Hicken "If you start to just do marketing... and just putting content out there for the sake of putting content out there, but there's not a solid brand strategy... you're kind of setting yourself up for failure." - Eric Ressler "At the end of the day, if you or your marketing team are not spending time with the people that you're serving... you're never going to get it." - Jonathan Hicken"We need to find ways to get more creative and more emotional, sometimes more fun with our content, even if that feels intuitively wrong." - Eric ResslerResources:Rethinking Your Unhealthy Relationship with Social Impact MarketingIs Your Social Impact Marketing Strategy Built on a Strong Foundation or a House of Cards?Podcast - We Are For Good — Nonprofit Trends That Matter in 2023: Marketing is MissionMarketing Isn’t Overhead, It’s an Impact MultiplierEthical Storytelling Resource - Maria Bryan Creative*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

There’s one thing the most successful social impact orgs get right, every time.They truly define and own a niche.Owning a niche as a social impact brand is probably one of the most important — but least understood — superpowers to further your mission. When we help our clients define and own a niche, they:↳ More easily drive engagement and action for their mission↳ Build capacity and become more effective with their existing resources↳ Reduce friction in securing donations and growing their revenue↳ Build a stronger culture and clarity of purpose for their teamBut owning a niche is easier said than done. And your niche should evolve over time. Where you started might not be right for where you are today — or more importantly where you need to be tomorrow. In today’s episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan outlines 5 simple but powerful questions that you can ask yourself to test your social impact niche. If you’re trying to find your niche, or ready to make a pivot, these questions can help you make sure you’re putting your ideas to the test. Episode HighlightsQuestion 1: What Specific Problem Do You Solve? [01:41]Explore the importance of clearly defining the problem your organization solves and ensuring it's communicated effectively.Question 2: Who Experiences the Pain If You Disappear? [06:12]Discuss the significance of understanding your primary audience and the implications of your absence on them.Question 3: What Is Your Unique Solution? [09:30]Examine how to articulate your unique approach to solving the problem and how it differs from other solutions.Question 4: What Are the Ramifications of Not Solving the Problem? [12:44]Consider the impact of not addressing the problem and how it can help refine your organization’s focus.Question 5: Who Are Your Competitors or Collaborators? [15:07]Analyze your position relative to competitors and how understanding this can help strengthen your niche.Quotes"The most important question to test your niche is, what specific problem do you solve?" - Jonathan Hicken "If my organization disappeared tomorrow, who would feel the most pain?" - Jonathan Hicken"Are you uniquely positioned to solve that problem in a way that's different or better than other people also working across that problem?" - Eric ResslerResources:Use Your Niche to Supercharge Your MissionDefine Your Social Impact Niche to Build a Brand That Matters8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact NicheHow to Find Your Social Impact NicheAl Ramadan - Play Bigger ​​*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Your brand is not your logo. It’s not your fonts, or your colors, or your voice. It’s not your content. It’s not your mission. Your brand is:↳ Whether you come through on the promises you make to your community↳ The actions you take↳ How your team shows up each and every dayBut what happens when you paint a picture of those values and promises, but don’t come through on them for your community?And how can you ensure that your brand values and promises are EMBODIED by everyone on your team in real life? In today’s episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan shares exactly how he and his team have done this at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center and his past roles in his social impact journey. Eric and Jonathan emphasize the need for consistent brand experiences across all interactions, especially during rebranding efforts. The conversation provides practical strategies for ensuring that both internal and external communications reflect an organization’s core values and promises.Episode Highlights[00:00] - Eric and Jonathan discuss the disconnect between brand promises and actual delivery, reflecting on past experiences at a B2B software company.[01:01] - They delve into how nonprofits can enhance donor retention by embodying their brand effectively in real life.[02:00] - Eric and Jonathan talk about the risks of rebranding and the importance of internal alignment.[07:12] - They offer tips on storytelling for nonprofits, emphasizing the need to balance vision with authenticity.[10:04] - The discussion turns to making supporters the heroes of the story rather than the organization itself.[13:02] - Jonathan shares a real-world example of how a small change at the front desk of an educational center reinforced a community-focused brand.[14:55] - The impact of inconsistent brand experiences and the importance of aligning internal actions with external messaging. [17:27]- Methods for assessing how well employees embody the brand, including coaching and feedback mechanisms.[21:08] - The concept of "pulses" for obtaining customer feedback and compares it to traditional surveys.[25:18] - Embodying the brand is crucial for authenticity and long-term success.Quotes"You want your supporters to be the hero of the story, not your organization. The focus should be on how they can make a meaningful impact." — Eric Ressler  [09:44]"If your brand's promise isn't met in real-world interactions, there's an instant lack of trust and credibility." - Eric Ressler [15:38]"Every single human being who's a part of your organization is in some way embodying and creating your brand." - Jonathan Hicken [16:12]Resources:They Said - pulses / mini surveys Storybrand by Donald MillerCreate Better Social Impact Messaging by Finding Your Brand Voice Unexpected Ways a Rebrand Can Supercharge Your Team Culture*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topiListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

You probably shouldn’t rebrand your social impact organization. Except, of course, when you really should. (wait, what?)Because when the conditions are right, a rebrand can be one of the most powerful ways to reach your mission faster. But how do you know when it’s the right time to invest in a rebrand?Let’s be real: a rebrand is a big swing move. And it’s a tempting play to run when:↳ You aren’t making the impact you need to↳ You can’t seem to get your story or message across↳ You aren’t getting engagement from customers or donors↳ Your current brand feels dusty and dissonantBUTThere are times when you absolutely, positively, shouldn’t do a rebrand. And if you try to push one through anyway, the results can be disastrous and might even cause a huge backlash from your community of supporters. In this week’s Episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan and Eric discuss how you know if it’s the right time to invest in a rebrand for your social impact org. And maybe even more importantly, what to watch out for to make sure you are ready to make the most of it. Episode HighlightsIntroduction to the topic of rebranding social impact organizations.The importance of rebranding as a significant investment.The role of rebranding during organizational growth or inflection points.Rebranding as a solution for organizations stuck in a stagnation loop.Rebranding during large strategic shifts and the concept of nonprofit life cycles.Addressing outdated branding and content strategies.The importance of effectively communicating your story to supporters.Discusses the pitfalls of rebranding without a clear strategy or measurable ROI.Emphasizes the importance of having broad support within the organization for a rebrand to avoid pitfalls and ensure effectiveness.Advises on the integration of rebranding efforts with strategic planning for a cohesive approach.Highlights the necessity of adequate resources and long-term planning to sustain a rebrand beyond its initial launch.*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Article - Dare to Be Bold: Making a Case for Better Social Impact BrandingArticle - Unexpected Ways a Rebrand Can Supercharge Your Team CultureArticle - Navigating a Rebrand: Nine Common Mistakes to AvoidBook - Nonprofit Lifecycles: Stage-Based Wisdom for Nonprofit Capacity by  Susan Kenny StevensListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

In this bonus episode, we're kicking off Season 2 with a new co-host, Jonathan Hicken.Learn about Jonathan’s path to social impact, from being raised by peace corps parents in Venezuela to his current role as Executive Director at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, a marine science museum. You can also learn a bit more about Eric's journey from design school dropout to accidental entrepreneur and what sparked his decision to focus his work at Cosmic fiercely on social impact. Jonathan and Eric cover a lot of ground in this season, and we can’t wait to get future episodes out into the wild soon. 🎧 Watch here on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the first full-length episode that drops next Tuesday, followed by new episodes every week.And don't forget to welcome Jonathan to the show in the comments. P.S. — Did you miss Season 1? It might just be bingeworthy enough for you to go back and watch before Season 2 kicks into full gear.Episode Highlights [00:22] - Introduction of Jonathan Hicken as the new co-host for Season 2.[00:48] - Jonathan shares his background in social impact, from Peace Corps parents to leading nonprofit initiatives.[02:01] - Eric and Jonathan discuss their past collaboration on a successful digital transformation project.[04:01] - Eric reflects on his journey from a design school dropout to a leader in social impact.[08:22] - The hosts outline the mission of "Design Tomorrow" and the questions they'll explore in the new season.Quotes"I’m really excited to have someone to represent the practitioner seat and to talk about how these ideas can be translated within an organization." - Eric Ressler [03:23]"My success in running Cosmic is just straight luck of being in the right place at the right time with a skill set that was highly in demand." - Eric Ressler [05:21]"I’m a big fan of the way you think about social impact work, and I’m excited to channel that energy into our conversations." - Jonathan Hicken [03:10]Resources:Designing Tomorrow Podcast Season 1Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History*** If you like our show, help us spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

We’re back with Season 2 of Designing Tomorrow, and we’ve got an exciting update. This season, we’re joined by our new cohost, Jonathan Hicken. Jonathan has extensive experience as a leader in the social impact sector, and brings a practitioner’s point of view to the show as he tests Eric’s ideas about brand building and marketing, and introduces ideas of his own. This season, we’ll continue to explore the question that frames our show: “Why do some social impact organizations thrive, while so many others fail to get traction and reach their true impact potential?”If you’re a social impact marketer, executive director/CEO, or just someone interested in exploring this question with us, then this show is for you. We’ve released a bonus episode to kick off Season 2, and our first full length episode wild drop next Tuesday, so be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss it!*** If you like our show help us spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Today’s episode is going to be a little different. Because this is the last episode in our first season of Designing Tomorrow. Today, we’re not going to introduce any new concepts or strategies. Instead, we’re going to challenge you. If you follow the the playbook we outlined over the course of Season One in Designing Tomorrow — truly, actually embody it — you will become a leading social impact organization.And once you begin to experience the benefits of this methodology for your organization, don’t just declare victory and call it a day. Use your new influence in your ecosystem to create a ripple effect of positive change.Our challenge to you today is this: Lead the conversation.*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Nonprofits, Fundraising Success Depends on the Strength of Your WebsiteThe ROI of Brand BuildingRead the Manifesto Listen to the ManifestoListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Is your social impact brand attracting enough revenue to power your mission and build a healthy, sustainable organization? Or do you feel like you’re constantly chasing donors and customers just to keep the lights on?Chances are, the second scenario hits closer to home. If so, you’re not alone. Because the social impact sector has a revenue problem. And it’s not a small one. We’re not just talking about donor retention, or shifting consumer behaviors, or downward trends in giving and support for social impact causes either. We’re talking about deeply rooted cultural beliefs and narratives that have shaped our entire sector. And that many of us have just learned to accept as inevitable.In today’s episode, we cover:The cultural beliefs and narratives that have created unhealthy and unsustainable norms that are holding our sector backWhy so many social impact organizations struggle to attract, grow, and retain revenue for their missionsAnd how you can create the conditions for revenue generation that can lead to the growth you need to truly power your mission and build a sustainable, resilient organization*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Nonprofits, Fundraising Success Depends on the Strength of Your WebsiteThe ROI of Brand BuildingRead the Manifesto Listen to the ManifestoListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Is community in decline, or is the way we’re participating just changing?The data and statistics, as always, are messy. And there’s valid opinions and arguments supporting different trends here.But whether or not community-engagement is in decline, our relationships with community is going through a rapid transformation. And as a social impact brand, you need community support to power your work. You can’t power your mission and reach your true impact potential alone. But, building authentic, vibrant communities seems harder than ever before. Today, we’re talking all about community-building. And specifically, how to build an authentic community around your mission — and why that’s becoming an increasingly important part of a successful social impact strategy.In today’s episode, we cover:Why community is changing and what that means for your social impact brandThe key pillars of healthy and vibrant communitiesAnd how you can build a community around your cause to drive support, engagement, and revenue for your mission*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.     Resources:9 Ways to Make Your Membership Model More InclusiveNonprofit Membership Programs: How to Create a Better One at Your OrganizationCommunity Building Might Not Feel Like Your Core Work, But It Should BeHow to Build a Focused, User-Friendly Website for Your Community FoundationListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

What if we told you that there is a way to work smarter, not harder, with your content strategy that can help you get the absolute most out of each piece of content and idea that you come up with?Whether you’re just getting started on your content creation journey or if you’re a seasoned content creator with established workflows and formats, the big idea and framework we’re going to cover today can be an absolute game changer.There’s one trend we consistently see holding social impact marketing teams back in their content strategy. And the worst part is that we see this with teams who put a lot of time and effort into their content. But because they aren’t implementing this strategy, they still aren’t getting the most return on their investment.So then they have to spend more time and energy thinking about new content ideas and formats, more time and energy creating that new content, and so on. In today’s episode, we cover: Why effective content distribution is half the battle to breaking through in the attention economyHow to craft a distribution-first content strategy and mindsetHow to squeeze the most value out of your content, whether that’s new content OR content that you’ve already created and publishedAnd a simple framework you can use to take these ideas and put them into action for your mission*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Read the Manifesto Listen to the ManifestoHow To Power Up Your Content Strategy When You’re Short on Time and StaffHow to Build a Next-level Content StrategyQuality Over Quantity: A Content Strategy to Stand ApartListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Are you tired of putting time and energy into creating content that just doesn’t get meaningful engagement from your community?We’ve all been there. You’re proud of your hard work and effort. A feeling of excitement rushes over you as you hit “post” or “publish.” This one’s going places, you just know it. Only, it doesn’t. It flops. Or maybe a few people engage but nowhere near the level of traction you need to take your mission to the next level. It’s one of the hardest and most disheartening parts about creating and producing content. And it makes you question if any of your energy and investment is even worth it at all. Sometimes it even feels unfair, like the algorithm holds a weird personal grudge against you, or that people’s attention spans are so short these days that they don’t engage with anything meaningful anymore. Other people seem to be blowing up and going viral, and their content feels generic, clickbaity, and low value.What’s going on here?In today’s episode, we cover: The top 10 mistakes we see that stop marketers from getting traction with their contentThe importance of framing and packaging your content in a way that actually captures attentionThe mindsets and habits of successful content creators that will forever change your thinking on content creationAnd how you can apply these strategies to your own content to start getting the traction you need*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:How To Power Up Your Content Strategy When You’re Short on Time and StaffHow to Build a Next-level Content StrategyQuality Over Quantity: A Content Strategy to Stand ApartCase Study: Let’s Green CaliforniaListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Are websites a dying relic of the internet’s past? With so much of our digital engagement today happening through social channels, there’s an ever-growing narrative that your website just isn’t that important anymore.That what you really need to do is nail your content strategy. Get big on TikTok. Tell your story through short form video. Build supporter trust through influencer campaigns. That Gen Z doesn’t even use websites anyway. That narrative couldn’t be further from the truth — especially for social impact brands.In today’s episode, we cover: The changing nature of the internet and how it’s shaping our modern cultureWhy most websites don’t convert, and the top 10 issues we see with most social impact websitesAnd the specific strategies and tactics that can turn your website into an activating, revenue-generating, digital flywheel*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.    Resources:Article: The 5 Key Things the Best Marketing Websites DoArticle: Your Organization’s Website Should be Catalytic – and CustomArticle: Nonprofits, Fundraising Success Depends on the Strength of Your WebsiteArticle: 5 Factors for Improving Digital Accessibility & EquityArticle: How to Build a Focused, User-Friendly Website for Your Community FoundationArticle: Achieve Your Social Impact Organization's Digital Goals with JAMstackCase Study: Equality Fund Presents “Your Daily Feminist Intention”Interactive Website Experience: Equality Fund Presents “Your Daily Feminist Intention”Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Picture this: You’re scrolling through your inbox and see a message from an organization you support. But something’s not quite right.The subject line reads “URGENT! WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!”You open the email, only to be bombarded with more fake urgency around hitting an important fundraising deadline and how you, and only you, can make that happen. You just have to donate RIGHT NOW OR ELSE the organization will fail miserably and the entire world will come crashing down. This may seem dramatic, but these exact tactics and fake urgency messaging are becoming more and more common for social causes. What was once contained to political campaigns is rapidly spreading into social impact marketing and appeals. And there’s a good reason why. In today’s episode, we cover: Why this shift into transactional marketing is becoming more common.Different transactional marketing traps and the problems they create. How you can embody a brand-building approach to create deeper, lasting support with your community. *** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on iTunes. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com.Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Guest Podcast: How to Authentically Market Your Social Impact WorkGuest Podcast: Nonprofit Marketing Best Practices for 2024Article: Rethinking Your Unhealthy Relationship with Social Impact MarketingPatagoniaListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

There’s one critical piece of your social impact strategy that you have to get right. When you don’t get it right, it holds back every facet of your growth and progress. We’ve seen it block and hinder revenue and fundraising.We’ve seen it create massive inefficiencies and reduce capacity.We’ve seen it negatively impact engagement, growth, and culture.So, what is this one key thing?It’s your social impact niche. Owning a social impact niche is a fundamental piece of your broader strategic plan and approach. In today’s episode, we’ll cover:  The key ingredients to defining a social impact niche for your organizationReal-world examples of 3 different social impact brands that have nailed their niche, and how it’s helped them supercharge their growth and successKey tips that you can use to define and own a niche for your own social impact mission*** If you liked this episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:Social Impact Branding: Making Your Nonprofit Standout How to Find Your Social Impact NicheIs Your Social Impact Marketing Strategy Built on a Strong Foundation or a House of Cards? Benefits of Our Integrated Branding Process One Acre FundCruzFoamSTEM from DanceSTEM from Dance Case StudyListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

Today, you’ll consume 74GB of information. That’s the equivalent of watching 16 movies. In one day. Our inboxes are overflowing, our social streams are noisy, we doom scroll short form content on apps purpose-built to hijack our attention, designed by the world’s smartest minds.But as the volume of information we consume grows each day, our capacity as humans to focus and make sense of the world remains basically unchanged. And this is the essence of the attention economy—where information is no longer the scarce commodity; instead, our attention is the prize to be won.In today’s episode, we’ll cover What, exactly, the attention economy is and how the world's most successful brands have mastered it to gain an unfair advantageThen, we’ll break down the 4 key pillars these brands use to win in the attention economy and how you can apply them to to your social impact strategy*** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Resources:The Revolution is Digital: A Manifesto for Today’s Social Impact LeaderWe Are For Good Podcast: How to Grow Your Social Impact in the Attention EconomyThe ROI of Brand Building4 Scroll-Stopping Digital Experiences to Inspire Your Nonprofit's Content3 Must-Have Digital Elements Every Social Impact Organization NeedsCommunity Building Might Not Feel Like Your Core Work, But It Should BeListeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

In our rapidly-evolving world, today’s social impact brands are falling behind their profit-driven competitors.The old playbook for creating meaningful social impact just isn’t keeping pace with modern culture. The lion's share of attention is dominated by big brands, often leaving social missions unable to remain relevant.But, for those of us committed to pioneering a new path, there’s hope. In the first episode of Season 1, we outline a new playbook that social impact leaders can use to succeed and thrive in today’s changing landscape. Join us, and step into a community of forward-thinking innovators, social impact pioneers, and authentic changemakers. *** If you like the episode, it really helps a new podcast if you can help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.comThank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.