The Boosted Volunteer

What can five years of building software for booster clubs teach you about supporting volunteers?  In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, Evan Eissler and Robin Eissler talk about the lessons behind BoosterHub’s growth, from Robin’s experience juggling 18 different software tools as a booster club president to building an integrated platform that helps volunteers manage their workload. They discuss booster club accounting, financial reporting, nonprofit compliance, gaming licenses, and fundraising rules, along with what’s next for BoosterHub and DistrictHub. Key Takeaways 01:31 — How Robin’s volunteer experience inspired BoosterHub 02:13 — Why managing 18 different software tools became a problem 06:17 — Why different booster programs need different tools 09:01 — How integrated accounting reduces the treasurer’s workload 13:07 — The behind-the-scenes work required to run a booster club 14:22 — Why financial reporting should be planned from the start 16:04 — Essential documents, insurance, and compliance requirements 17:10 — When raffles and other games of chance may require a license 18:05 — Why individual fundraising accounts can put nonprofit status at risk 23:14 — What’s next for BoosterHub and DistrictHub Ready to simplify booster club management? Visit www.boosterhub.com to learn how BoosterHub helps volunteers stay organized and spend more time supporting their students.  

What does school district oversight really mean for booster clubs? In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, Evan Eissler and Robin Eissler discuss why stronger communication, clear guidelines, and proper oversight can benefit both booster clubs and school districts. They explore what districts are actually looking for—from nonprofit status and tax filings to financial controls, insurance, documentation, and approved fundraising activities—while addressing common concerns about privacy and maintaining the booster club’s independence. Robin also explains how oversight can help protect volunteers from fraud, embezzlement, compliance issues, and personal liability. The conversation covers volunteer turnover, unauthorized fundraising, the importance of bylaws and operating procedures, and practical steps booster presidents can take to build a stronger relationship with their district. Ultimately, the goal is to create a framework that protects everyone while helping more resources reach the students and programs they support. Key Takeaways: 01:23 — Why school district oversight can be a positive thing for booster clubs. 03:32 — What school districts are actually looking for when reviewing booster clubs. 06:13 — How District Hub helps streamline documentation and compliance. 08:43 — How better systems can protect a booster club through volunteer turnover. 10:41 — How unauthorized fundraisers can create problems for schools and boosters. 14:21 — Why embezzlement is the number one claim for booster club insurance. 15:47 — How oversight and insurance can protect volunteers from personal liability. 18:00 — Why bylaws, operating procedures, and term limits matter. 19:23 — What can happen when booster clubs don't maintain compliance. 23:29 — How booster clubs and districts can build a healthy working relationship. 24:32 — What booster presidents can do if their district has no oversight process. 25:53 — Why stronger organizations can lead to stronger student programs. Ready to strengthen your booster club? Learn more about how BoosterHub can help your organization stay organized, compliant, and prepared for volunteer transitions. Visit www.boosterhub.com to learn more. 

Think your school's insurance automatically protects your Booster Club? Think again. Many Booster Club volunteers assume they're covered if something goes wrong—but a single accident, theft, or lawsuit could leave the organization and even individual volunteers financially exposed. In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Elgin Allen Jr., Founder & CEO of Association Insurance Management (AIM), and Jamie Fagan, President of AIM, to explain the insurance every Booster Club should understand before hosting fundraisers, concession stands, banquets, or community events. They break down the four essential types of coverage, discuss why embezzlement remains the most common claim they see, share real-world lawsuits that surprised even experienced professionals, and offer practical advice to help Booster Clubs protect their volunteers, finances, and mission. Whether you're a first-time Booster Club officer or a seasoned board member, this episode will help you better understand your responsibilities and avoid costly mistakes. Key Takeaways: 01:15 – How one playground injury inspired the creation of AIM and changed Booster Club insurance nationwide. 03:45 – Why Booster Clubs are more vulnerable to lawsuits than most volunteers realize. 05:00 – The questions every Booster Club should ask their school district before planning an event. 06:40 – Understanding the four essential insurance coverages: General Liability Crime/Fidelity Bond (Embezzlement) Directors & Officers Liability Property Coverage 10:50 – Can Booster Club officers and volunteers be personally sued? What every board member needs to know. 12:05 – Why embezzlement is the #1 insurance claim and the financial controls every organization should implement. 15:25 – High-risk fundraising events, vendors, raffles, fireworks, and other activities that require extra caution. 18:20 – Annual insurance vs. single-event coverage: which option makes the most sense? 19:35 – Common mistakes organizations make when purchasing insurance and how to avoid coverage gaps. 22:30 – Real insurance claims that prove anyone can file a lawsuit—even for unexpected reasons. 25:25 – Safety tips every Booster Club should consider before running their next fundraiser. 27:30 – How new Booster Club boards can quickly get insured and stay protected year after year. 28:45 – Jamie and Elgin share how school activities shaped their lives and why supporting student programs matters. Association Insurance Management (AIM) specializes exclusively in insurance solutions for Booster Clubs, PTOs, PTAs, and other educational nonprofit organizations across all 50 states.   References: Elgin Allen Jr.: LinkedIn Company: LinkedIn Website: https://www.aim-companies.com Facebook  Instagram  

What if the secret to raising $14,000 in three weeks was already sitting in your pocket?  Most booster clubs settle for the "standard" chocolate or much sales that require endless physical labor for a small fraction of the profit.  This week on The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler welcomes Marsha Sray, a fundraising powerhouse and former band booster president who turned a dilapidated equipment trailer into a rallying cry for an entire community. Marsha shares the exact strategies she used to "restore the pride" and explains why peer-to-peer fundraising is the ultimate engine for modern booster clubs. Whether you are trying to fund new uniforms, a championship trip, or just want to stop selling mattresses in the band hall, Marsha’s hands-on experience will show you how to turn a daunting financial goal into an exciting, high-energy event. Key Takeaways: 01:33 The "Eyesore" Inspiration: How an aging, disintegrating band trailer wrap became the catalyst for Marsha’s first major fundraising success. 03:00 Storytelling that Sells: Why one student’s quote about a truck "carrying our pride" was more effective than any professional marketing campaign. 04:16 The Power of the Ask: Why sitting around and talking about a problem for a year won't solve it, but simply asking the community will. 05:30 Peer-to-Peer vs. Static Pages: Understanding the "Ask-a-thon" model—using urgency, time limits, and exponential community growth to drive donations. 07:51 The "Magic" Number of Asks: Why most donations happen between the fifth and seventh time a person is asked. 09:25 Raising $15,000 in One Hour: The crucial role of the "kickoff" event and why being prepared with a contact list is the difference between success and a slow start. 11:13 Incentives & Humiliation Rituals: From duct-taping directors to the wall to eating ranch-flavored crickets—how non-monetary "hustle awards" drive student participation. 15:35 The Personal Touch: Why a phone call to Grandma or a personal text to an uncle outperforms automated messages every time. 17:55 Aspirational Budgeting: Why you should always push your goal just a little bit beyond what you think is attainable. 20:07 Celebrating the Fruits of Labor: The importance of a "reveal party" to show donors exactly what their money provided. Is your booster club running like a champ or just getting by? Visit BoosterHub.com to find the tools you need to manage your nonprofit responsibly, raise more money, and get back to the activities that matter most.   

What does it really take for Booster Clubs to survive—and thrive—in 2026?  As funding shifts, expectations rise, and responsibilities grow, many clubs are being pushed to operate more like full-scale nonprofits than volunteer groups. In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, the roles are flipped as Evan Eissler interviews co-host Robin Eissler, CEO and founder of Booster Hub. Drawing from her experience working with thousands of Booster Clubs nationwide, Robin shares a candid look at the biggest challenges clubs face today—and the strategies that separate those that are thriving from those barely getting by. If your Booster Club feels stretched or unsure what to focus on next, this episode gets straight into the real issues. Key Takeaways 1:40 Funding is shifting—Booster Clubs are carrying more of the load 3:04 Booster Clubs vs PTO/PTA—what makes them different 4:32 Why some clubs thrive (and others burn out) 5:35 Strong clubs plan ahead—not just for the season 7:03 Communication gaps cause most problems 8:13 Compliance basics many clubs get wrong 11:20 “Mandatory fees” and where it gets tricky 12:54 Payment methods that can create risk 15:17 How to prevent fraud and money issues 17:06 Why credit cards can actually increase revenue 18:00 SMS works better than email for engagement 19:20 Planning for leadership and financial stability 22:30 Creating excitement around volunteering 23:24 One simple habit: reconcile your bank account To learn how Booster Hub can help you improve communication, increase engagement, and manage your Booster Club more effectively, visit www.boosterhub.com. Be sure to subscribe to The Boosted Volunteer so you never miss an episode packed with insights for today’s Booster Club leaders.

As Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities continue to reshape athletics, their impact is no longer limited to college programs. In this insightful episode, former professional football player and NIL education advocate Dr. John DeWitt joins host Robin Eissler to explore what this evolving landscape means for high school athletes, families — and most importantly — Booster Clubs. A former 12-year professional football player turned chiropractor, author, and keynote speaker, Dr. DeWitt is the founder of JD Football Training, where he provides NIL and recruiting education to student-athletes, parents, and school communities. In this conversation, Dr. DeWitt shares practical, real-world perspectives on navigating state-specific NIL rules, managing changing team dynamics, and turning potential disruption into meaningful opportunities for athletic programs. He also unpacks sponsorship complexities and leadership challenges, equipping volunteers with clear, actionable insights to stay prepared in a rapidly shifting environment.. Key Takeaways: 1:52 - NIL opportunities are expanding into high school athletics, creating confusion due to varying rules across states, districts, and schools. 3:33 - Booster Clubs must distinguish between team sponsorships and individual NIL deals to avoid compliance risks and locker-room tension. 5:40 - Families should avoid rushing into NIL agreements and carefully review expectations, exclusivity clauses, and long-term eligibility implications. 6:54 - Athletes with strong social media followings are increasingly attracting NIL opportunities, blending performance recognition with influencer marketing. 9:59 - NIL arrangements may influence Booster Club fundraising if donors feel contributions are benefiting individual athletes instead of the entire program. 11:25 - Coaches can turn NIL disparities into leadership opportunities that strengthen discipline, teamwork, and motivation. 12:15 - Education and proactive communication help Booster Clubs confidently navigate evolving NIL rules and responsibilities. 16:01 - Student-athletes should stay focused on long-term development rather than becoming distracted by short-term NIL incentives. 18:46 - Setting new goals after achieving milestones is essential for sustaining growth both in sports and in life. Resources: LinkedIn: Dr. John DeWitt Free NIL Resource: https://jdfootballtraining.com/NIL

Ever wondered why marching band parents are some of the most intense, dedicated, and—dare we say—"cult-like" volunteers on the planet?  This week on The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with the hilarious and insightful duo behind The Band Dads Podcast: Chris Flynn and Scott Lang. Scott, a former band director and leadership expert, and Chris, a data analyst and "super-volunteer," share their journey from confused bleacher parents to becoming the voice of band parents globally and talk about the unique world of band boosters, volunteer culture, fundraising, leadership, and why marching band may be one of the most demanding—and rewarding—activities for students and parents alike. Chris and Scott share how their own podcast, The Band Dads Podcast, was born out of a need to help parents better understand the marching band world—from scoring and competition culture to parent dynamics and volunteer engagement. Along the way, they bring plenty of humor, sharp insight, and real-world advice for booster leaders in any program. Whether you are a "Band Dad" trying to figure out a scoring sheet, a "Sports Mom" struggling to fill volunteer slots, or a Booster President dealing with a "territorial" cameraman, this episode is packed with wit, wisdom, and real-world strategies for running a successful nonprofit organization (because that’s exactly what a booster club is!).   Key Takeaways: 00:50 The "Batman" Moment: How a simple document explaining band scoring turned into a global podcast reaching 35+ countries. 07:23 The Oscar & Felix Dynamic: Why the "Odd Couple" pairing of a data analyst and an emotive band director makes for a successful partnership. 15:25 The Political Power of Band Parents: Why superintendents prioritize band needs during bond elections—hint: it’s about the 300 unified votes! 21:09 Is it a Cult? Scott defends his hilarious take on why the best booster clubs operate like a "cult" with shared values and beliefs. 22:11 The Power of FOMO: Stop shaming parents into volunteering. Learn why "Fear of Missing Out" is the most effective tool for filling your signup sheets. 26:47 Inclusion vs. Athletics: A deep dive into why band is "better" than sports for many kids—there are no benchwarmers in a marching band. 33:42 The "Band Director Whisperer": The secret to a perfect board-director relationship and how to set healthy boundaries. 38:18 The "Speed Round" Solutions: Scott and Chris debate everything from mattress fundraisers and mulch sales to why the Booster President should never speak at the concert. 52:15 Recruiting Dads: How to engage fathers by tapping into their existing passions (like tech, photography, or construction) rather than twisting their arms. 01:00:24 The Standard of Excellence: Why marching band is "as hard" as varsity football and why the older students teaching the younger ones creates a unique community.   References: Website/Podcast: www.banddadspodcast.com TikTok: @thebanddadspod Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lang-382ba82/ Social Media: Find them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube by searching The Band Dads Podcast. Must-Listen Episode: Season 1, Episode 1: "Why Music and Why Does It Matter?"  

If your booster club’s graphics look inconsistent, outdated, or thrown together at the last minute… sponsors notice. And so do parents, athletes, and recruiters. In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with Becki Jacobs, founder of Team Mom Boutique, to share how booster clubs can create a professional, consistent, and sponsor-ready social media presence—without hiring a designer. Becki, a former corporate digital product designer turned youth sports entrepreneur, built Teen Mom Boutique after seeing teams struggle to create polished graphics from scratch each season. What started as cheer templates for her daughters’ teams has grown into full-season Canva bundles designed specifically for booster clubs, sports teams, and marching bands. In this conversation, you’ll learn how to stop “winging it” on social media and start building a simple, repeatable system that elevates your program. Key Takeaways 1:53 — Booster clubs often struggle with inconsistent graphics; reusable Canva templates eliminate the need to start from scratch each season. 5:24 — Canva is ideal for volunteer-run programs because it’s simple, collaborative, and easy to transition between leaders. 7:16 — A full-season bundle includes 78 templates covering registration, game days, player spotlights, and sponsor recognition. 9:52 — Focus on three weekly posts: upcoming events, recognition, and game results. 11:07 — Strong, well-planned photos are just as important as the templates themselves. 13:12 — Professional, consistent graphics increase sponsor visibility and renewal potential. 14:30 — A polished social presence helps athletes and programs stand out. 16:00 — Canva simplifies leadership handoffs and protects brand consistency. 17:47 — Start simple: post schedules, game days, and final scores—then build from there. Resources: Special Offer:  Use Code Boost26 for 10% off Website:  https://www.teammomboutique.com/ Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckijacobs/ Facebook & Instagram: @teamomboutique TikTok: Team Mom Boutique

When a “game” becomes a full-blown event, booster clubs and athletic directors feel the pressure—more volunteers, more fundraising, more compliance, and higher expectations from fans and families.   In this Boosted Volunteer Podcast episode, Robin Eissler welcomes Scott Garvis, a Certified Master Athletic Administrator and Activities Director at Newton High School (Iowa), to break down what athletic directors need most from booster clubs today—and how booster leaders can build support systems that actually work. Scott shares why “people power” is the biggest challenge schools face, how to create a student-focused fan experience, and why structure, transparency, and compliance protect both your club and your community. Key Takeaways: 2:23 The Volunteer Gap: Scott discusses the 27% decline in volunteerism since COVID and why "people power" is the most valuable currency a Booster Club provides to an AD. 3:18 The Shift in Coaching: Discover why 70% of coaches now come from outside the teaching profession and how this changes the support they need from parents. 4:24 Making Moments, Not Just Games: Learn how ADs are shifting focus toward the "fan experience" and creating memories that stick with families long after graduation. 7:55 Student-Led Success: Why establishing a Student Athletic Advisory Council is the secret weapon for ensuring your fundraising and facilities actually meet the students' needs. 11:25 The "All-Sports" Umbrella Model: Scott explains why consolidating into a single 501(c)(3) saves time, ensures Title IX compliance, and prevents individual parents from facing unexpected tax burdens. 24:41 The Power of Local Loyalty: Why high school sports brand recognition outperforms NASCAR in customer loyalty—and how to use that to land sponsors. 34:10 Advice for New Volunteers: The single most "refreshing" question a new volunteer can ask their Athletic Director. Resources: Website: https://scottgarvisconsulting.com/ Beyond the Bench Podcast Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgarvis

What if your Booster Club didn’t rely on the same five people every single week? In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Sharon—better known online as "The Band Mom”—and her husband Jeremy, who ran concession stand operations for the Waxahachie High School band to unpack how they transformed concessions from a stressful scramble into a fun, well-run operation that volunteers actually wanted to be part of. From doubling volunteer participation to running concession stands like a real business, Sharon and James share practical, field-tested strategies that any Booster Club can use—whether you’re managing Friday night football in Texas or juggling shared facilities across multiple programs. This isn’t theory—it’s real-world Booster Club leadership from people who’ve done the work. Sharon and James show how treating concessions like a business and volunteers like valued teammates can change everything. Key Takeaways 0:30 Why this episode is for the few volunteers doing most of the work and how that burnout shows up in Booster Clubs. 1:27 Sharon’s journey to becoming the “Band Mom” and how long-term band involvement shaped her leadership approach. 4:00 What wasn’t working in concessions when Sharon and James took over and the common challenges most booster programs face. 5:47 How managing shared concession stands requires strong relationships with school staff and facilities teams. 8:27 The relationship-based strategy that helped double the number of volunteers. 10:20 Why a positive, fun volunteer experience keeps people coming back and attracts new help. 14:00 How assigning clear roles helps volunteers feel confident and reduces stress during busy events. 16:14 Using point-of-sale systems, inventory tracking, and credit cards to run concessions like a real business. 20:21 How creative, limited-time menu items help build excitement and boost concession sales. 22:07 Why adding drink-only lines improved speed, sales, and the overall fan experience.   Resources:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealbandmom Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealbandmom/?hl=en Website: https://therealbandmom.com/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebandmom YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealBandMom