Team Member Spotlight — Ryan Edwards

Name:         Ryan Edwards

Title:             Copywriter

Ryan has been part of the Fuse team since 2024, bringing more than a decade of experience in nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and copywriting. Before joining the agency world, he spent more than six years helping lead an international nonprofit, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges, opportunities, and strategy behind successful fundraising. As a copywriter, he enjoys turning complex ideas into clear, compelling stories that inspire action, always balancing creativity with a deep respect for authentic storytelling.

Getting to Know Ryan:

1. Q: How do you like to spend your free time away from the wonderful world of direct response?
A: As a former English major, I love a good book. Lately I’ve been into history books because I find the stories of how we all got here really fascinating. I also love going to the movies, seeing live theater, and traveling. I also never say no to trying out a new bakery or having fun at a drag show.

2. Q: What's a lesson you've learned that changed how you approach fundraising?
A: Early in my career, I had the privilege to work with a fundraising consultant who lived and breathed storytelling. She helped really cement for me that powerful storytelling leads with emotion and is centered on human impact instead of organizations or mission statements. It’s something I still have top of mind all the time.

3. Q: What's your favorite part of the creative process?
A: I love a good brainstorm. It’s exciting to take a step back, look at the big picture and leave all preconceptions about a campaign or organization at the door to see what comes forward. That kind of collaboration and innovation is really satisfying — especially when it ends with a clear path forward toward a fresh new campaign.

4. Q: If you could give every fundraiser one piece of advice, what would it be?
A: We all have the potential to be both donor and fundraiser. So don’t treat your audience as someone separate. Imagine how you or someone you love would like to be invited to make a bigger difference or join an organization’s mission and put that foot forward instead of your carefully crafted pitch. Authenticity is powerful.

5. Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A: Teleportation. Imagine taking your lunch break on the Amalfi Coast — no air fare needed!

6. Q: What was your dream job as a child?
A: Scientist

7. Q: If you had to choose a different career path, what would it be?
A: Academia

8. Q: What's your go-to karaoke song?
A: “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes (I’m not a great singer — but usually folks are willing to sing along to this one!)

9. Q: What are you currently reading, watching, or listening to?
A: I’m reading A True History of The United States by Daniel A. Sjursen and watching House of the Dragon and Grey’s Anatomy.

10. Q: What's a hobby you've picked up as an adult?
A: I'm not sure if it could be called a hobby, but I’m learning Spanish. I’m thrilled to be conversational after working at it for about five years.