Meet the Principals

Meet Larry Montali

How did you get into direct response fundraising?

Like many in this field, I took a circuitous route. An interest in writing and photography, and a soft spot in my heart for life’s underdogs, led me to journalism. But I wanted to have a more direct impact on addressing needs near and far, and I discovered that writing and creating to help non-profits do their good work gave me that chance.

What’s the best part of your job?

“Working hard at work worth doing,” as Teddy Roosevelt put it, pretty much says it all. Like any job, this one has its ups and downs, but at the end of the day, I’m grateful for the chance to use my abilities to do some good.

Worst part of your job?

I’m an optimist so I’ll say “most challenging,” not worst. And that would revolve around getting every detail right on every job we do. A lot of blood, sweat, and tears go into making that happen. In a detail-dependent business like ours, it isn’t easy.   

Your favorite escape from the job?

Indonesia sounds good. Barring physical escape, running (5Ks, ½ marathons, 100-mile relays, you name it) does me good. Wailing on the harp (“harmonica” to the uninitiated). Strumming my guitar. Music. Reading. Keeping a half step ahead of my kids. It all helps keep me sane and replenishes the creative juices.  

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Meet Rod Taylor

How did you get into direct response fundraising?

I started my career as a journalist because I wanted to tell stories and help make the world a better place. Along the way I made the move to public relations for a non-profit which eventually led to a career in direct marketing for good causes. The nice thing is that through this rewarding career I’ve accomplished my ambition to tell stories that help make the world a better place.

What’s the best part of your job?

There is a lot to love. It’s hard to narrow it down but I guess the best part is getting to work with our clients. Great people who have devoted their lives and careers to the greater good.

The worst part?

The worst part is delivering bad news when a package or list test fails. However there is an upside to even that because we learn something from every failure.

Your favorite escape from the job?

In a creative industry it is absolutely imperative to get away and take a break to recharge the batteries. Creativity is the first thing to suffer when you are over-worked. For me its reading, dining out with the woman I love, or playing guitar with some buddies on the back porch.

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