The Real Story of MarketSmart…

You may already know that MarketSmart helps nonprofits engage with their supporters in a way that keeps them highly involved and committed— so they give more. 

But what you might not know is that the personal challenges I faced building this business have been tremendous. So today, I thought I’d share my story with you. 

I tried to bury what follows because it was so painful. But, when I was interviewed because my firm won a very big award (last year), it got me thinking about the challenges I/we overcame to get here.

Here is my story:

I started the business in 2008 during the economic downturn. It was shortly after my dad died from a heart attack and my stepmother began to sue me for his estate.

My dad 2 weeks before he suddenly died from a heart attack

Here’s a picture of my dad 2 weeks before he suddenly died from a heart attack

At the same time, my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer.
That meant I had to help her physically, emotionally and financially. Then one of her nurses stole $50,000 from her after giving her an overdose of drugs and rousing her from her sleep to have her sign checks emptying money from my mom’s account to her’s and her friend’s.

On top of all that, sadly, that crime led some people to judge how I took care of my mom (even though they weren’t involved in her care at all). I felt terribly guilty that I wasn’t with her 24/7. But I had to work. When she first got sick, I brought my laptop to her bedside and worked beside her. But I just couldn’t do that every hour of every day. Nevertheless, I felt horrible about it. Reprehensibly, those people made me a pariah. It still breaks my heart.

Screen Shot 2015-08-21 at 9.20.34 AM

Me and my mom before we learned about the cancer

Mom in the hospital dealing with operations, chemo and radiation

Mom in the hospital dealing with operations, chemo and radiation

If that wasn’t enough, the adjustable rate mortgage on my home came due and my house payment more than doubled.
The business wasn’t ready to provide my family with an income. I had been paying my employees. And, of course some of them wanted raises. But I wasn’t yet paying myself. And, in fact, the business needed a lot more capital just to keep it alive. 
Everything was hitting me at once.
Plus, many of you probably know that my wife has been a Type 1 diabetic since the age of 8. The birth of both of our children was tremendously challenging. Her daily life is filled with blood sugar testing, episodes of hypoglycemia and other demands. It was because of her dreadful disease that I took particular notice of a terribly offensive newsletter sent to us from a diabetes-related charity. That’s what led me to realize that I could do more to support the search for a cure by helping them overhaul their marketing efforts than by giving them money. More on that can be found here.

So, on top of my dad dying, his wife suing me, my mom dealing with cancer, my mortgage coming due and my business floundering, I had tremendous concerns for my wife’s well-being.
Her disease made it especially challenging for her to rear our two young children. I desperately wanted to be there to see them grow up because my dad wasn’t around much when I was a young boy or a teenager. He left our home when I was just 12, leaving me with my mom who suffered from chronic depression, anxiety and other issues.
I can’t believe how much I was dealing with when I look back. But I’m sure many of you have faced similar hard times. Everyone does, including your donors, volunteers and the beneficiaries of their gifts and time.
Finally, MarketSmart started to deliver serious results for our clients.
I was thrilled. Making progress warmed my heart. Building relationships with great people around the world made me feel like I was contributing. Making the world a better place.
But we still weren’t out of the weeds yet because many fundraisers simply were not yet ready to accept our “disruptive” software and strategies. In fact, soon after achieving amazing results for a few of our clients I was invited to speak about our successes at a fundraising symposium. But a handful of naysayers heckled me so much I couldn’t even finish my presentation. It was awful! I felt like an Uber driver at a taxi cab convention all because my technologies and methods were unorthodox and unconventional. 
Today MarketSmart is finding more acceptance but, we still frequently encounter consternation.
I guess I’m a pariah to some in the nonprofit sector too. Such is the life of a disruptive, conscientious capitalist. We’re growing very fast. People keep asking about buying us or funding us. We’re winning awards. But most of all, we’re delivering results in line with our brand promise and our mission.

So that’s my story.
And now I just want to say “THANK YOU” to my wife. She is everything to me. She is the reason I started the business— to help raise money to cure her diabetes. She is my inspiration, my support, and my most trusted advisor. She is my true love and my best friend. If you ever meet her, you should thank her too. Without her, none of this would be possible.
Screen Shot 2015-08-21 at 9.09.45 AM

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Karen
Karen
8 years ago

Greg, thanks for so freely sharing your journey. Congratulations on the success you’ve achieved as a result of your impeccable marketing talent and personal ethos.

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Karen

Karen, you are very welcome.

Tracy Malloy-Curtis
8 years ago

Greg, I for one am so grateful that despite your incredible personal challenges you persevered with your business. My organization – and more importantly, the millions of people in need who access our services – has benefited enormously from your creative and disruptive ways of thinking. Planned giving especially is a world where the status quo is king and no one wants to rock the boat. Add to that an unhealthy distaste of “marketing” and it’s no wonder people were skeptical. But how selfish it is to refuse to consider new and different way to raise more money and to help more people! Keep disrupting, Greg! You’re a great role model for your kids.

engagementfundraising
8 years ago

Awwww. Thank you Tracy. And thank you for being so brave and forward-thinking. I can’t push the envelope at all without people like you. It’s a team effort.

Mike Cowart
8 years ago

Greg,
Once again, you have proven the power of “story” and there is no gain without pain!
Thanks

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Mike Cowart

Thank you Mike. And, the best stories are real.

Sasha Lewis
Sasha Lewis
8 years ago

Wow. Thank you for sharing your story and congratulations on your success! I had just learned about SCORE and saw your mention of it the same week. Excited to learn more and encouraged after reading your post.
Best,
Sasha Lewis

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Sasha Lewis

SCORE is just terrific Sasha. They help tons of nonprofits. I strongly suggest you call them and meet with some mentors to find one you like. Go to http://www.score.org.

Pamela Miler
Pamela Miler
8 years ago

Greg, thank you for sharing your story. Your strength, determination, love and resilience are inspiring. As for those who felt compelled to judge you, they have not walked in your shoes and do not your heart. We do. You have made a difference in the lives of many, and we know that — remember that. My best to you and yours!

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Pamela Miler

Thanks so much Pamela.

Lucy Barnett
8 years ago

I have learned so much from your blogs, high level perspective and sage advice. You pass on key concepts, powerful messages and encouragement freely. When meeting with Board around their fundraising roles, if I print out something from you, it’s accepted without question because it is concise, on point and very “human” too. Best to you on your path. You’ve helped more people and nonprofits than you know.

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Lucy Barnett

You are so kind. Thanks for these wonderful words of encouragement Lucy. I’m so glad to hear that I’ve been able to help.

Roland Emerton
Roland Emerton
8 years ago

Thank you so much for sharing your story. It is deeply inspirational. Reminds me of Jim Valvano’s “never quit” speech. Much appreciated and God bless you and your family.

engagementfundraising
8 years ago
Reply to  Roland Emerton

Thanks so much Roland. Quitting is not part of my vocabulary.

Scott
Scott
8 years ago

Thanks for sharing your story, Greg. I love what you’re doing. Keep up the great work. And thank you so much for hanging in there!

Dianne
Dianne
8 years ago

Thank you for sharing your story. As a caregiver to my mom after losing my dad last year, I could really relate to some of the things you have been through.

Greg Shannon
7 years ago

Everyone has a story and now I know yours. Like the others above I always find tremendous value in your posts and so does our team. Thanks Greg and I wish you nothing but success and great memories with your family today and in the future.
Greg

Laura
Laura
7 years ago

Greg, thank you for sharing. You are blessed with the greatest asset: A loving family. God bless you!

Theresa
Theresa
7 years ago

What an inspiring story! Thanks for sharing it. We all suffer hardships, but when they all seem to occur at once it can be simply overwhelming. Many of us owe you for seeing it all through and bringing us encouraging ways to better our seach for more and bigger donors!

engagementfundraising
7 years ago
Reply to  Theresa

Thanks Theresa.

Mbwoge Ngole Solomon
Mbwoge Ngole Solomon
7 years ago

Most of the comments on this sad story are of 2015 precisely September. I believe I was missing something good. I am astonished to read such a sorrowful narration from a white colored family. We in Africa, feel sometime that blacks suffer most. I am happy you shared this story with many, and observing you, where you are now, will encourage many , I NOT EXCLUDED. You were truly led by the Holy Spirit. God will continue to bless you more and more in Jesus name- Amen.

Kelley Tetzlaff
Kelley Tetzlaff
7 years ago

Greg,
Thank you for sharing. I have appreciated your approach, methods and material from the first day I became connected to your organization.
Now however, I am honored to even say that i know you, even if it is only via your marketing emails and a couple of contacts through your sales.
Truly inspiring and appreciated. Blessing to you.
Kelley R.J. Tetzlaff
BGCA

Bob Werner
Bob Werner
6 years ago

Greg – Your sad story is part of our human experience and I salute you for having the strength and fortitude to create and achieve what you have. This is a tribute to those that you love.
I met your organization through Fundraising Report Card which is but one of the great innovations you and your team have created, It has been a great gift to the several non-profits that i work with as a volunteer. Thank you.

engagementfundraising
6 years ago
Reply to  Bob Werner

Thanks Bob. I’m so happy to hear that it has helped you and your beloved nonprofit.

Gary
6 years ago

Greg,
Thank you for sharing your story and making me aware of the challenges you have undertaken,it is a powerful story and applaud you in persevering in the challenging times that you have gone through.Wish you continued success in all of your efforts at MarketSmart in making a difference in the nonprofit world.
Gary Bukowski

engagementfundraising
6 years ago
Reply to  Gary

Thanks for your kind words Gary. I know we think a lot alike!

Rick
Rick
6 years ago

Wow. That’s quite a story. Congratulations on overcoming all those challenges. I’m a very satisfied client. My thanks to you and your team for your unorthodox approach. It’s refreshing and, most important, leads to results.

engagementfundraising
6 years ago
Reply to  Rick

Thanks Rick. I’m thrilled that you’ve had success with MarketSmart!

Ven
Ven
6 years ago

Inspiring story Greg. I’m also impressed with the way I was led to this post via email. Simple but very effective idea!

engagementfundraising
6 years ago
Reply to  Ven

Thanks for engaging with us Ven.

LeAnne Miller
5 years ago

Greg, thank you for sharing your story. Authenticity makes us vulnerable yet human. Most people, unless they are jealous, are drawn to people who have struggled and overcome. You have a powerful reason on what drives your business, never let anyone or anything take that from you. We are grateful for your passion, service and commitment to making this world a better place. I am new to your resources, but from what I have seen, its impressive. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents with the nonprofit sector.

engagementfundraising
5 years ago
Reply to  LeAnne Miller

Thank you so much LeAnne. You made my day!

Ernestine Miller
Ernestine Miller
5 years ago

Thank you so much for sharing your story. May God continue to bless you and your family.

engagementfundraising
5 years ago

Thank you so much Ernestine.

engagementfundraising
5 years ago

Thanks so much Ernestine.

Carolyn Lowery
Carolyn Lowery
5 years ago

Yes, I had read your story a couple of years ago but re-read today. I have always admired your creative common sense approach and hope to convince a client to sign up for your help with their success.

engagementfundraising
5 years ago
Reply to  Carolyn Lowery

Thank you Carolyn.

Frank Santulli/713-816-7197 cell
Frank Santulli/713-816-7197 cell
5 years ago

Thank you for sharing Mr. Warner!
I look forward to helping your company grow to new levels and very motivated to working with you on mapping out your company’s growing success!

John L
John L
5 years ago

Greg,
Thank you for sharing your personal story behind the story of MarketSmart. Life is messy. A good friend of mine’s mother often said, “Make you mess your message.”
Stay strong!

John Leshney
John Leshney
5 years ago

Greg,
Thank you for sharing your personal story behind the story of MarketSmart. Life is messy. A good friend of mine’s mother often said, “Make you mess your message.”
Stay strong!

engagementfundraising
5 years ago
Reply to  John Leshney

Thanks John. That’s a great quote. Thanks for sharing it.

Rev Rick J Fritzemeier
Rev Rick J Fritzemeier
5 years ago

Dave, thanks for sharing your own humanity and journey, including the depths of the valleys. We don’t need supermen/women. But we do need caring, honest, and transparent bosses, leaders, colleagues, staff, and friends.

Rick

Rev Rick J Fritzemeier
Rev Rick J Fritzemeier
5 years ago

Ah shucks, Greg, not Dave. My bad!

Gaynor Brymer
Gaynor Brymer
5 years ago

Goodness – congratulations on keeping your head above water in the battle of life !
As a business professional who took up professional fundraising 6 years ago I find Marketsmart exactly that – business savy, client focus and simple practical advice – I was surprised to hear you had fought criticism from the sector; but then my approach is that philanthropy is a business just as any trade and exchange – the difference being the currency is the fulfilment of the higher calling or emotional desire to make a difference .
I continue to learn from marketsmart advice and insist my staff subscribe to your newsletters !!
Well done !

Geoff Lloyd
Geoff Lloyd
4 years ago

Greg, It’s funny how so many people you meet are fighting serious personal battles, especially entrepreneurs. Although the details are quite different, I relate to so many of the challenges you faced. I look forward to meeting you in a few weeks. This will be good fodder for connecting. Best, Geoff

Bill Olson
4 years ago

Above all else in fundraising, after 30+ years of experience, I appreciate honesty. Greg, your back story is helpful to me at this time (though it appears your 2015 replies may have been modified some in recent years). My wife of nearly 40 years is fighting her fifth battle with breast cancer. This time, it is Stag 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer – spreading in the lungs. In the midst of this most recent battle, my organizations that I have worked with for nearly 15 years decided to require me to produce 40% of my annual goal in less than the first three months of our FY … AND … one Monday morning soon after that ultimatum, our director of development walks into our one on one weekly meeting and says, “Surprise, we have hired another planned giving director!” He detailed that the new guy was basically taking over my position and I was to have to start working more than one hour away from our home and the clinics my wife needed to attend weekly, or more. In short, with God’s help, and the prayers of many, many faithful friends and even strangers, I was able to reach 60+% of my annual goal by Christmas Day and 100%+ by Easter morning that FY. Now, I am in a new FY and my wife’s health is teetering on ‘slight improvement’ after reaching a point this past summer where she could barely walk to and from the bathroom. And, the two trials she had entered at great cost to a nationally known oncologist both had failed over the past year. So, she was and is now receiving the best ‘standard or care’ they can offer a person in her condition. Basically, medications approaching $20K per month that at best ‘slow’ the progression of her particular kind of cancer. We’ve celebrated Thanksgiving several times this year because in August we were not sure she’d see it again. We’ve held a ‘family reunion’ on the East Coast with our family to see the Fall Leaves of Vermont, because both Christmas and our 40th anniversary in May next year seemed a bridge too far. Yet, with faith, and GREAT HOPE, we are trusting God to help her overcome this dreaded disease and prognosis – this slow progression – and we seek in faith a TOTAL RECOVERY and VICTORY over this her fifth battle in the last 25 years. Why is your back story so important? Victory! Winning! Overcoming the seeming ‘pile on’ that life’s circumstances has thrown at us. And, for me to win means keeping our health insurance intact – forget the income – we NEED this health insurance and are so thankful we have it. What can MarketSmart do for us? I hope, I trust, it will be a godsend through your team members to help me reach my goals as soon as possible and DO THE MOST GOOD with the compressed time I have to be both a full time fundraiser and full time husband of a woman who deserves so much more than I can offer in time and love – yet – it is my life and hers wrapped up together in this awesome challenge we face. Can MarketSmart help? It is my hope it will and not only this — amplify what I can do in ways that not only secure my job (and health insurance) from year to year – but allow me/us to enjoy the over 40 days of vacation I am now entitled to with my seniority. Time for my wife and I to be with family and friends and just enjoying and loving each other and her precious rescue dog (who has rescued us). Let’s see. I am re-engaging as best I can with your incredible staff. Our organization has opened the floodgates for you to help us (something I worked on quietly from my lowly position over the past few years). IF MarketSmart can help me – a fellow who is NOT smart enough to operate his SmartPhone – you can help anyone. And, I am reminded, God can help us all. Even me! Do I need His help? YES! Daily! Hourly! Can MarketSmart be His instrument in my fundraising for legacy and outright gifts of significant size? Of course it can. Is this vitally important? Like your backstory – I need to have a victory over my circumstances. We need a WIN!
Thank you for sharing your story. Life, and fundraising, are not separable in my circumstances. I must be more efficient. I must be more successful. And, so much as humanly possible, I need to have a deeper, calmer more loving approach to every minute of my day so that the healing and health we need for my wife’s total recovery is enhanced by my life’s work. There. That felt a bit better to share my hope for our relationship AND yes. I will share what MarketSmart can do for other fundraisers, their organizations and most important the people they seek to help – like diabetics or cancer patients – or a myriad of afflictions and difficulties every family will face in our lives on this planet.
One last thought, technology is NOT the devil. Nor is it the Savior. It is a tool. When I think of the ‘technology’ that Jesus Christ had available to him during His ministry in Palestine nearly 2,000 years ago, it really came down to story-telling and travel. Today, we can send a story like this I am sharing or like you shared to hundreds if not thousands with the push of a ‘send’ button on a computer. However, like Jesus in the days He walked among us, we have to meet face to face, hear each other’s voice, and experience personally the sincerity of our messages. We have to draw close enough to feel the depth of compassion that comes with writing a check or feeling the needs of others we seek to help. Otherwise, we are missing the humanity we all need to experience – truly loving one another. At the very heart of life it is caring for others that matters most. Charity is not the only way to express love, but Love is the goal we all should share. And, if technology helps us to reach out and touch the lives of others more effectively, more genuinely, then I believe that MarketSmart will serve a greater purpose and a good purpose that may meet the needs of our seemingly degrading dive into metrics and digital measurements of production as fundraisers. We need to protect our humanity and the Human Spirit from becoming a tool of AI and rather let AI and technology be a part of what draws us and our many needs closer together.
God bless all of your staff and their families and everyone near and dear to them. When they go to work today, I pray they will realize they are helping me and hundreds if not thousands of people they serve who also have a back story.
Now – let’s all go about seeking the Ultimate Victory in Life – to love one another the way Christ has loved us …. immeasurably and eternally …. go!

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[…] talk about making yourself vulnerable so others can understand your “why” — you can read here, the long and short of it is that we exist to connect people who want to help, who want to exercise […]

Claire Axelrad
4 years ago

OMG Greg. I had NO idea. Your back story is heart breaking, and I am SO sorry for your many losses and trials. Please forgive yourself (and please forgive me for not knowing, not asking and, as a result, not empathizing.) Yours is an inspirational story of the healing power of reaching for meaning and the helping power of caring about others. May the love you give come back to you in blessings yet to reveal themselves. Keep on reaching. And please tell Nessa thank you .

AMCHA GHAR
3 years ago

Hi Grey, it is incredible to read through your story. I really appreciate that you have mastery over fundraising now for Non profit organizations. Congratulations!!!!!
Well I am also running a organizations, how can you assist me

Nancy Larson Lim
Nancy Larson Lim
1 year ago

Hi Greg!
I don’t know how I got to this site, but I am glad that I had a chance to read your story. As your co-worker so many years ago now, I am sorry that I never knew this about you, I would have hoped to be a help in some way. It wouldn’t have changed my mind at all about you because I always liked you and thought that you were someone I admired. Your tenacity, your intelligence and mostly your kindness towards me. I was not a shining star in sales at all, but you never made me feel inferior. I wish you and your family all the best Greg, and I know that your passion for what you do and your fairness towards people will carry you a long way! God bless!

Last edited 1 year ago by Nancy Larson Lim
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