Auction is Action with U in it!

Join us as we delve into the exciting world of fundraising auctions, where every bid is a step towards making a difference. We believe that Auctions is action with a "U" in it! Whether you're a seasoned organizer or a newcomer, our insights will equip you with the knowledge to elevate your fundraising initiatives and create memorable experiences for everyone!

Auction is Action with U in it! is a business podcast hosted by Call To Auction, with 41 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Call To Auction hosts Auction is Action with U in it!, a business show with 41 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #42

  How to Create an “Oprah Moment” at Your Fundraising Auction

  Aug 14, 202610 minS1

  What if one travel package could produce multiple winners, multiply your auction revenue, and help identify your organization’s next major donors? In this episode, Bobby D. explains how to create an “Oprah Moment” at your fundraising auction by selling the same exciting travel experience multiple times. This strategy engages midlevel donors, reveals willingness and financial capacity, and creates opportunities for deeper relationships after the event. You’ll also learn about an exclusive five-day, four-night, all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta experience for two at Costa Sur Resort, featuring oceanfront accommodations, dining and beverages, airport transfers, a couples massage, and more. Plus, every new Call To Auction client who signs before the end of 2026 will receive a free live-auction item for their event. Ready to create your own “Oprah Moment”? Connect with Call To Auction to learn more. Auction is action—with “U” in it. calltoauction.com Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

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  Episode #40

  Your Gala Isn't Entertainment. It's Leadership.

  Jul 17, 20266 minS1

  What if the biggest factor in your gala's fundraising success isn't your auction items, décor, or entertainment? In this episode, Bobby D. reveals why every decision—from your venue and storytelling to your emcee, auctioneer, and paddle raise—is a leadership decision that shapes donor behavior. Learn how intentional leadership creates generosity while entertainment alone creates applause. If you want to raise more money and create greater impact, this episode is for you. Schedule your free Event Evaluation at calltoauction.com Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

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  Episode #39

  The Secret to Turning Every Guest Into a Donor

  Jul 3, 20267 minS1

  Most nonprofits end their paddle raise too early. In this episode of Auction is Action , Bobby D. Ehlert shares one of the simplest—and most overlooked—fundraising strategies you can implement at your next event: the Paddle Drop . The Paddle Drop happens immediately after your paddle raise and gives every remaining guest one final opportunity to participate. It's an effortless way to transform attendees into first-time donors, tap into their philanthropic budget, deepen donor relationships, and raise thousands of additional dollars without adding another auction item or extending your program. You'll learn: What the Paddle Drop is and why it works. How to convert guests into lifelong supporters. Why participation matters just as much as gift size. The simple script that can generate more revenue in just a few minutes. How professional fundraising strategy turns good events into extraordinary ones. Free Resource: Download "Stop Hiring the FREE Auctioneer" and discover how investing in the right fundraising auction team can actually pay for itself while helping your event raise significantly more money. Stop leaving money on the table and start building events that maximize both revenue and donor relationships. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

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  Episode #38

  The Hidden Revenue at Every Gala: 8 Games That Raise Thousands

  Jul 1, 202613 minS1

  Most fundraising events rely on the same three revenue streams: the silent auction, the live auction, and the paddle raise. But what if you could add thousands of dollars to your event without adding another live auction item or extending your program? In this episode of Auction is Action , Bobby D. Ehlert shares eight proven revenue-generating games that increase guest participation, build excitement, and create additional fundraising opportunities throughout the evening. You'll discover how to strategically use Golden Tickets, Heads or Tails, Gift Card Frenzy, 100s Boards, Bag of Money, Spirits Pulls, Balloon Pops, and Mystery Boxes to engage more guests and generate meaningful revenue. Bobby also explains why these games work, how to execute them successfully, and the common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're planning your first gala or looking to take your fundraising event to the next level, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can implement right away. In this episode you'll learn: How revenue games lower the barrier to giving. Which games generate the highest return. How to create energy before your paddle raise. Tips for promoting and running each game successfully. How a single revenue game can generate an additional $1,500 to $8,000—or much more. Free Resource While you're there, grab our free guide, "Stop Hiring the FREE Auctioneer," and discover ways to raise more money to you can how invest in a professional fundraising auction team that can actually pay for itself while helping your event raise significantly more money. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

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  Episode #37

  Is Your Nonprofit Mindset Holding Your Event Back?

  Jun 26, 202618 minS1

  Many nonprofit events struggle not because of the mission, the donors, or the economy—but because of the mindset behind the event itself. In this episode of Auction is Action, Bobby D. Ehlert explores how traditional nonprofit thinking can unintentionally limit fundraising results. From scarcity and budget-first decisions to undervaluing donor experience and settling for "good enough," these beliefs can hold organizations back from reaching their true potential. You'll learn how successful organizations shift from an event-planning mindset to an investment mindset, create transformational donor experiences, and build events that inspire generosity rather than simply raise money. If you've ever heard phrases like "we've always done it this way" or "our donors won't spend that much," this episode is for you. Recommended For Nonprofit leaders Development directors Board members Event planners Fundraising committees School, hospital, and foundation galas

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