Big name. Big crowd. Big donations… right? Not always. In this episode of Fundraising is Dead, Ryan Dobson shares what really happens when you bring in a celebrity speaker—from powerful wins to painful disasters. With nearly 300 events under his belt, Ryan breaks down when a celebrity works, when it backfires, and the three questions you must ask before booking a big name.

You’ll hear stories of Tim Tebow, Kirk Cameron, and a political guest who nearly tanked an entire donor base. This episode will save your next banquet—and maybe your reputation.