Fun In Fundraising

Fun In Fundraising
Podcast Description
Fun In Fundraising is a podcast that gives you behind the scenes access to those behind top fundraising galas and cocktail parties. These events raise large sums of money through producing fun, memorable experiences that have guests and attendees coming back year after year.
Each episode, host Rob Giardinelli talks with top gala and non-profit fundraising event chairs, honorees, producers and non-profit executives. These conversations highlight how top leaders facilitate raising large sums of money to positively impact their communities in a fun, organic way.
Rob Giardinelli is a sales executive turned ”professional guest on duty” through his work at esteemed publications The Society Diaries and Society Texas. During the past 12 years, Giardinelli has attended/chronicled over 2,000 galas, kick-off events and cocktail parties that have raised over $250 million for some of the world’s top nonprofits.
To learn more about or work with Rob, visit https://eventmindset.com
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers themes centered around effective fundraising strategies, community engagement, and event planning, with episodes that delve into specific topics like maximizing donor involvement, innovative event themes, and the role of celebrities in fundraising efforts. Examples include discussions on the Mavs Ball's success in increasing donations over the years and tips on creating compelling event narratives to inspire giving.

Fun In Fundraising is a podcast that gives you behind the scenes access to those behind top fundraising galas and cocktail parties. These events raise large sums of money through producing fun, memorable experiences that have guests and attendees coming back year after year.
Each episode, host Rob Giardinelli talks with top gala and non-profit fundraising event chairs, honorees, producers and non-profit executives. These conversations highlight how top leaders facilitate raising large sums of money to positively impact their communities in a fun, organic way.
Rob Giardinelli is a sales executive turned ”professional guest on duty” through his work at esteemed publications The Society Diaries and Society Texas. During the past 12 years, Giardinelli has attended/chronicled over 2,000 galas, kick-off events and cocktail parties that have raised over $250 million for some of the world’s top nonprofits.
To learn more about or work with Rob, visit https://eventmindset.com
What are the keys to hosting a successful fashion and runway show at your gala or signature fundraising event?
Today, I talk with Jacob Samson and Payton Martin, co-chairs of DIFFA Dallas’ signature fundraising event House of DIFFA 2025: Dreamstate.
Over the past several decades, DIFFA has consistently been one of Texas’ most anticipated, successful, fun, and fashionable signature fundraising events. As Texas’ most fashionable gala, it features an epic jacket auction where the organization partners with acclaimed designers known locally, regionally, and globally. It all culminates with a hour-plus fashion show that ties into the event theme, complete with cutting-edge, avant-garde fashion mixed in with choreographed numbers making it an unforgettable night for their guests.
The substantial amount of funds raised from House Of DIFFA support HIV prevention, awareness, and treatment programs in North Texas.
In this episode, Jacob and Payton share their thoughts on a wide range of topics including creating innovative themes that keep donors on their toes and wanting more, how to host a successful kickoff party that creates buzz for your gala or signature fundraising events, establishing strong partnerships with production partners, and so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss.

Disclaimer
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