Episode 95 - Building Ethical, Transparent AI Models for Fundraising with Daniel Basco

Today, let's explore how good data, clear goals, and trust are the real keys to getting value from AI. Meet Daniel Basco, Senior Director, iWave & Data Intelligence at Kindsight. Starting the conversation, Daniel shares his career journey from public policy and economics to data science and fundraising. He talks about his work with governments, nonprofits, and now Kindsight, where he leads data science and AI product development. The conversation explores how AI and machine learning have improved over the years, making it easier to test ideas and work faster. Daniel explains why organizations need clean, reliable data and why it is important to understand how AI reaches its conclusions. He also discusses the need to reduce bias and use AI ethically. Furthermore, Daniel talks about the benefits of combining different data sources to improve results and how AI can help nonprofits make better decisions and improve daily work. He discusses the importance of teamwork, experimenting with new ideas, and continuing to learn as AI evolves. He also shares how he uses Claude to communicate ideas more clearly, brainstorm faster, and save time in his daily work. HIGHLIGHTS [01:47] Daniel's Career Journey [07:12] Challenges and Evolution in AI and Machine Learning [11:26] Data Utilization and Predictive AI in Nonprofit Sector [18:17] Transparency and Trust in Nonprofit AI Models [29:01] Future of AI in Nonprofit Sector [35:23] Personal Reflections and Favorite AI Tools Resources: 2025 Donor Perceptions of AI Report: kindsight.io/resources/ebooks/2025-donor-perceptions-of-ai-report Connect with Daniel: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/daniel-basco Website: kindsight.io/