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April 29th, 2025

Empowering Nonprofits: The Marketing Magic of Laura Van Bloem

  1. Empowering Nonprofits: The Marketing Magic of Laura Van Bloem Christine Van Bloem 43:16

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Remember back in the day when tv shows would declare a “very special episode”? Well this week, I'm declaring it too, as I convince my brilliant sister-in-law, Laura Van Bloem, to join me on the podcast to talk all things non-profit marketing.

Laura shares her insights on the importance of storytelling and impact communication for successful nonprofit fundraising. We get into hybrid work culture, fractional Employment, and the transitions women experience as our children leave home. You'll find practical advice for nonprofits and service businesses on effective marketing strategies, and a great conversation about being a mid-life woman in today's world.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:04 Gym Stories and Hydrotherapy Chair
03:42 Nonprofit Marketing Insights
07:17 Career Journey in Nonprofit Sector
09:45 Challenges and Strategies in Fundraising
13:36 Transition to Consulting
20:37 Work-Life Balance and Career Reflections
22:44 Reflecting on Gen X Responsibilities
24:15 Changing Career Dynamics
25:51 The Rise of Fractional Employment
30:09 Hybrid Work Culture Challenges
32:01 Navigating Empty Nest Syndrome
36:01 Future Plans and Retirement Thoughts
40:27 Favorite Meals and Final Thoughts

Find Laura at VB Communications or on Linked In.

Hi! I’m Christine, and I’m super stoked to be cooking, writing, and helping everyone sink into to a better life. If you’re looking for healthier recipes for one and two, or want to add more delightful cocktails into your repertoire, you’re in the right place.

My philosophy is simple:

It’s a meal, not a mortgage.

Real food is the most important factor in good cooking.

If you’re going to drink, drink in moderation and always drink the good stuff.

I’ve been teaching cooking for a long, long time, and I am still excited to cook, teach, and share with you. If you’ve got a question, I’ll work hard to give you an answer so that you’re better and more confident in the kitchen. Hey, it’s a meal not a mortgage, so there’s nothing to stress about and only fun to be had.

With a heart attack in 2020, loss of my brick & mortar cooking school business of 15 years, broken bones, and even my husband having a stroke, and all within just a couple of months, I've been through it! BUT, I’m a lucky gal with endless support and a deep gratitude for everything that I do have. It’s not always easy, but I’m working to make sure that it stays fun.

Post heart attack, I’m reforming my butter-loving, heavy cream worshiping ways by making changes to how I cook, taking things in a healthier direction, without doing a complete 180 and still keeping things flavorful and delightful. The key here is healthier. I’m not afraid of butter, but I’m using a touch instead of stick. A tablespoon or two of cream or half-and-half, not a cup, and so on and so forth. And now that the kids are grown and living lives on their own, I’m re-learning how to cook for two.