In this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot Aladin sits down with Bryan Wilburn — a powerhouse fundraiser and president of St. Monica Montessori — to unpack the secrets behind his monumental achievement: raising over $40 million for a non-profit mission.
Bryan shares how his journey began as a missionary, what he learned from leading one of the largest Newman Center capital campaigns in the country, and why real fundraising is less about events and bake sales, and more about deep relationships and radical honesty.
Together, Ricot and Bryan dive into:
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The mindset needed to lead long-term fundraising efforts
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Why rejection is essential to professional growth
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How to build donor trust without being weird 🙃
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Creating a mentorship culture and leading by example
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The underrated power of wearing a tie 👔
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And what it means to leave a lasting leadership legacy
Oh — and yes, Bryan reveals why lemonade stands and bake sales won't cut it when you’re chasing million-dollar goals. 🍋💸