Technology as a Vehicle for Purpose
You wouldn’t think a fintech guru and founder of a revolutionary app rocking the sector would be all about authenticity and relationships, but Susan Langer is exceptional. In this episode, Susan and Katie discuss how the use and benefits of technology can never negate the purpose of the relationships it helps facilitate.
What is the Purpose of Technology?
While there is no argument technological advances in fundraising have helped expedite and increase ways to give, these same advances have some drawbacks. As Steven Shattuck reminded us in his recent book, Robots Make Bad Fundraisers, a machine-like system for raising support has glitches. However, the up-and-coming generations of digital natives expect and respect the use of digital fundraising so long as the purpose is still present. At its best, Susan reminds us that technology can be more than a payment gateway. It can be a vehicle for a higher level of relationship and communication around purpose.
Meet Susan Langer
For over 30 years, Susan Langer has worked in financial services, marketing, and international development. As a result, her career spans corporate, entrepreneurial, and nonprofit sectors. She was a leader at US Bank, General Mills, and World Vision. Susan founded Mosiac Marketing in 1996. Mosiac Marketing worked with small and growing businesses in the financial and high-tech industries. Over ten years, Mosaic Marketing grew revenues to $3.5 million. One week before 9/11, the firm moved to New York City. This led to a professional move to the nonprofit world.
Move to the Nonprofit World
During this time, Susan was an Executive Director for World Vision on the East Coast. She also helped launch a women’s homeless shelter in New York City. In addition, she worked with women and children in the Middle East. Finally, she developed a growth strategy for a nonprofit helping at-risk Minneapolis teens.
Mosaic Mindshare and LGS
In 2010, Susan changed Mosaic Marketing to Mosaic Mindshare. The firm used Susan’s learned experience in the nonprofit world and with women-led businesses. A few years later, in 2016, she founded Live.Give.Save., Inc. (LGS). LGS is a financial technology company focused on social good. For example, LGS created the first financial wholeness tool, Spave®. In June 2021, Reseda Group acquired 80% of LGS’s assets. Together, they made a new company: Spave, LLC.
Thought Leader and Personal Life
Susan is a thought leader in fintech, startups, nonprofit board engagement, fundraising, women, and youth. She also supports plans that help women and children. She wants to empower, equip, and encourage them to reach their full potential. Additionally, she has been on nonprofit boards and on her school board. Most recently, she joined the City of Red Wing Advisory Planning Committee. Susan has two adult children named Roarke and Maddie. She lives in Red Wing, Minnesota with her husband, Gary.
