The Cause+Effect Podcast

10 Episodes
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By: Dunham+Company Podcast Network

Tired of doing things the same. way. every. year? The Cause+Effect Podcast, brought to you by the Dunham Podcast Network, is a fresh voice that breaks down the latest fundraising trends, leadership lessons and the ups and downs of the nonprofit industry. Our host Trent Dunham talks to a variety of guests with effective strategies and stories that inspire us. The goal? Increased effectiveness for more impact.

How AI Is Reshaping SEO and SEM
Today at 10:00 AM

Dive into the latest episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, where Trent Dunham sits down with industry experts Nils Smith, Madison DeLage, and Haley Johnson to discuss the cutting-edge tools and trends shaping the future of digital marketing and fundraising.  

In this engaging conversation, the team tackles how AI is revolutionizing audience engagement, from predictive analytics to personalized content creation, making it easier than ever to connect with the right people, at the right time. They also explore the shifting role of search engines in the age of AI-driven algorithms and how these changes impact visibility and strategy f...


The Power of Trust in Leadership
04/17/2025

Welcome to a special episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast! Today, Trent Dunham is joined by his long-time collaborator and friend, Nils Smith. This episode explores the role of trust in leadership and how it shapes career transitions, business, and ministry. Nils reflects on his nine years at Dunham+Company, highlighting moments of growth and how trust has been a cornerstone of his unconventional journey from pastoral ministry to innovation. He shares insights on viewing ministry and calling through a broader lens while maintaining a 50,000-foot perspective on life and leadership.  

Trent and Nils also discuss the dynamics o...


Resilience: Redefining Identity and Leadership in Challenging Times
04/03/2025

Without a guest this time, Trent takes time to reflect on a meaningful and thought-provoking word that has shaped Dunham+Company at its core. Following the rebranding conversation from a previous episode, where the process of redefining Dunham+Company’s identity with the founder still involved was discussed, Trent takes a deeper look into the concept of resilience.  

Why resilience? How is it different from perseverance? And how can this one powerful word inform how your organization communicates, operates, and leads with intention?  

This episode is packed with insight into the process Dunham+Company went through, a bi...


The Universal Power of Creativity
03/20/2025

On this episode of Cause+Effect, we’re exploring creativity in a way you've never considered before. Join host Trent Dunham as he welcomes Dan Sumpter, Chief Product Officer at Dunham+Company, and Dean Sell, founder of Red Leaf Brands, for a thought-provoking discussion on understanding and redefining creativity.

Is creativity a skill reserved for only a select few? Not at all. The conversation dives into how creativity is a universal resource, hardwired into all of us. From leading a company to crafting a campaign, everyone has a unique role to play in the creative process. Tune in to...


How Media and Content Creation are Evolving
03/06/2025

How has the media landscape changed in the past decade, and what does it mean for content creators today? Carey Nieuwhof, returning guest and renowned leadership podcaster, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss the major shifts in content creation and media consumption over the last 5-10 years.   

From the decline of traditional blogging to the rise of video and short-form content, Carey shares insights on adapting to new media trends and staying relevant in a crowded digital space. You'll learn about the importance of owning your channels – like email lists and podcasts – over relying solely on social algori...


Innovating for a Kingdom Impact
02/20/2025

Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Cause+Effect podcast featuring James Poulter, a global leader in AI and innovation. Together, Trent and James dive into how to thrive in the ever-changing environment of technology, foster creativity, and let go of outdated practices that hold us back. James shares powerful insights on how these principles can spark meaningful change in technology, ministry, business, and personally.  

Whether you're a leader in your field or simply looking for ways to grow personally and professionally, this episode is packed with practical strategies to increase your impact and effectiveness. Don’t miss it!


The Charitable Tax Deduction – What You Need to Know
02/13/2025

Welcome to this special episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast! Host Trent Dunham sits down with Rick Dunham, Founder and Chairman of Dunham+Company, to explore the crucial relationship between government policies and charitable giving. Together, they dig into the history of the charitable tax deduction and the recent legislation that has been introduced, proposing a universal charitable tax deduction.  

Also, discover insightful findings from a new national study on attitudes related to the charitable tax deduction and the implications of the recently introduced legislation. Whether you’re a nonprofit professional, donor, or simply curious about the intersection of...


Unpacking Donor Confidence: Insights from the 2025 Donor Confidence Study
02/06/2025

Today, we’re excited to explore some fascinating insights and trends in donor psyche, brought to life by our special guest, Rick Dunham. A frequent visitor to the podcast, Rick joins Trent to unpack critical findings from the latest Donor Confidence Study – a resource the team at Dunham+Company commissions annually to better understand donors' mindsets as we head into a fresh year.  

This year’s edition of the study has a nuanced focus, influenced by its timing right after the election.  As Rick explains, the study surveyed donors who had contributed at least $20 to charity in the previous...


Top Ten Trends to Watch in 2025
01/23/2025

This episode of the Cause+Effect podcast dives into the highlights of Trent’s presentation at our annual Summit. Featuring a dynamic discussion between hosts Trent Dunham and Nils Smith, this conversation is packed with insights to fuel your mission.   

Trent’s iconic “Top 10 List” from the Summit takes center stage as he and Nils break down key trends, actionable recommendations, and best practices for leaders and teams. Whether you're a ministry leader or simply looking to optimize your impact, this episode offers invaluable takeaways to empower your organization.


Leading Through Change: What We Discovered in Our Rebranding Process
01/09/2025

Join us for a special episode of the Cause and Effect Podcast, where Trent Dunham leads a discussion alongside Nils Smith, Rick Dunham, and Dan Sumpter. Together, they peel back the curtain on the rebranding process at Dunham+Company—offering invaluable insights into leadership transitions, organizational branding, and the art of patience and discernment.  

Whether you're exploring a rebrand or evaluating how to lead in a new season, this episode provides practical and inspiring lessons for navigating change with resilience.