Podcasts about bridgespan

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Best podcasts about bridgespan

Latest podcast episodes about bridgespan

Walk Talk Listen Podcast
From Systems to Soul: Reimagining Power and Purpose with Nate Wong - Walk Talk Listen (Episode 190)

Walk Talk Listen Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 68:12


Nate Wong, partner at Bridgespan and a visionary leader is dedicated to reimagining systems through equity, innovation, and human transformation. Nate shares his journey from management consulting to becoming a trusted voice in shifting power to communities, exploring how ownership models, trust-based philanthropy, and inclusive collaboration can fuel social change. His reflections are grounded not only in systems thinking but also in deep personal insight, reminding us that lasting change requires both organizational and inner transformation.   As we walk through topics like spiritual grounding in professional life, the courage to let go, and the beauty of Hawaiian wisdom (yes, Nate chose a Hawaiian song that embodies this episode's spirit), Nate challenges us to build a “social impact consciousness.” Tune in for a conversation that bridges policy and presence, capitalism and compassion — and invites each of us to walk with more intention, wherever we are.   Listener Engagement: Discover more about Bridgespan via their Website. Check their LinkedIn and Instagram. Follow Nate via LinkedIn, Website and Medium. Share your thoughts on this episode via walktalklisten. Your feedback is invaluable to us. Please do explore the songs selected by Nate and previous guests on our #walktalklisten playlist here. A few of Nate's Publications: “From Capital to Connections: Aligning Donor Strengths with Nonprofit Needs” (Bridgespan.org, 2024) "Nonprofit Leadership Transitions: Four Ways Funders can Support Leaders of Color" (Bridgespan.org, 2024), "How to Support New Leaders of Color: A Transition Timetable" (Bridgespan.org, 2024), “Building a Trust-Based Philanthropy To Shift Power Back to Communities” (SSIR, 2021) Follow Us: Support the Walk Talk Listen podcast and Maurice by liking and following Maurice on Blue Sky, Facebook and Instagram. Visit our website at 100mile.org for more episodes and information about our initiatives. Check out the special WTL series "Enough for All," featuring Church World Service (CWS) and the work of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI).

Philanthropisms
Farai Chideya: Philanthropy, Democracy & Multiracial Pluralism

Philanthropisms

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 45:03


Send us a textIn this episode, we talk to Farai Chideya, journalist, writer, academic and lead author of a recent report from Bridgespan Group, "Philanthropy for a Multiracial Democracy: How Investing in Pluralism Can Open the Aperture for Democracy Funders". We discuss:Why is pluralism so important as an ideal, and what barriers/threats prevent it being realised?Why is it particularly important to emphasise multiracialism as an aspect of pluralism?What does it look like in practice to foster pluralism as a philanthropic funder?Does philanthropic pluralism naturally lead to a pluralistic society, or are there regressive philanthropic actors who want limit pluralism in society? Can we square these two things?Is there too much focus on elections when it comes to defining democracy-building philanthropy, at the expense of other elements of democracy?Why is a long-term perspective so important when it comes to funding democracy and pluralism?Why is collaboration so important?Why does it often pay to focus at a local level?How are funders harnessing storytelling and creative arts as tools for fostering pluralism?Might donors need to look beyond traditional nonprofit structures at times, and support work that is more overtly political? Does there need to be a clear distinction between this work and traditional philanthropy, or at the lines increasingly blurred?Can progressive funders take any lessons from the successes of conservative philanthropic funders in the US over the last 50 years, when it comes to the power of long-term, unrestricted funding for grassroots organisations as a means of shifting the parameters of political debate? Do concerns about an authoritarian crackdown on civil society during the2nd Trump administration mean that funders might have to put longer term ambitions of fostering pluralism on hold in order to address more immediate challenges, or is leaning into support pluralism part of an effective response? Has the idea of pluralism itself become more politicised, and is there a risk that this might make some funders more reluctant to fund this kind of work?Related links:Bridgespan's report, "Philanthropy for a Multiracial Democracy: How Investing in Pluralism Can Open the Aperture for Democracy Funders"Upcoming webinar on the report (March 25th)Farai's podcast "Our Body Politic" (currently on pause, but past episodes available).Philanthropisms podcast interview with Daniel StidPhilanthropisms episode on pluralismWPM article on "Philanthropy at a time of chaos"

The Nonprofit Show
DEI Under Fire: Why Nonprofits Must Lead the Charge

The Nonprofit Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2025 29:48


In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are often polarized, Raël Nelson, Partner and Head of Equity at the Bridgespan Group, brings clarity and hope to the nonprofit sector. Joining Julia Patrick, Raël shares insights rooted in years of experience leading DEI efforts.“We live siloed lives,” Raël begins, “but it's in the workplace where most of us interact across lines of difference. This is our opportunity to learn and grow together.” These moments are pivotal in fostering understanding and collaboration, especially within mission-driven organizations.Raël's leadership at Bridgespan demonstrates how nonprofits can lead the charge in addressing systemic inequities—not just externally, but within their own structures. As she points out, “It's not just about hiring diverse teams; it's about building an environment of equity and inclusion where everyone thrives.” This timely episode reframes DEI as a mutual benefit rather than an obligation. Raël explores with us how nonprofits, regardless of their mission, are inherently tied to DEI, from dog shelters addressing systemic poverty to libraries serving diverse communities. Her message will be clear to you: inclusivity strengthens organizations and their impact.  #DiversityLeadership #EquityInAction #NonprofitDEIFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Successful Nonprofits Podcast
What's Your Operating Model with Leslie MacKrell

Successful Nonprofits Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 35:45


What if the key to your nonprofit's success lies not in working harder but in structuring your work smarter? In this insightful episode, Leslie MacKrell, partner at Bridgespan Group and expert in nonprofit operating models, breaks down the essential elements for driving strategic impact. From rethinking accountability structures to streamlining decision-making, Leslie shares actionable steps and real-world examples that help nonprofits of all sizes overcome growth challenges and achieve big, bold goals.   If your nonprofit is scaling or facing operational bottlenecks, this episode is a must-listen to transform your strategy into tangible results. This episode answers the following questions: How can I move my nonprofit from strategy to results? What is a nonprofit operating model? How can I align my organization around our goals? What are common barriers to implementing strategic plans? How do decision-making practices impact nonprofit effectiveness? Links mentioned in this episode: Nonprofit Operating Models (Bridgespan Article) Project ECHO Looking for more? Check out these episodes: How the Best Nonprofits Launch, Scale Up and Make a Difference with Kathleen Janus  [Episode Title on our website with show notes]

Good Data, Better Marketing
Better Customer Engagement Starts with Better Messaging with Des Cahill, CMO at Tipalti

Good Data, Better Marketing

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 38:10


This episode features an interview with Des Cahill, Chief Marketing Officer at Tipalti. Des has served as CMO at multiple startups, such as Ensighten, Samepage and BridgeSpan, while also having successful experiences at companies like Apple and HP. Most recently, he drove global product marketing strategy for Oracle's Advertising & Customer Experience as Group Vice President.In this episode, Kailey and Des discuss the importance of foundational experiences and adapting to different company environments, crafting a solid messaging framework, and the evolving role of content marketing in the age of generative AI.-------------------Key Takeaways:A well-defined messaging framework is foundational, informing content across various channels such as websites, marketing collateral, sales pitches, and internal communications. Organizations can effectively tailor their communications and improve customer engagement through a phased approach to personalized marketing. Starting with a strong foundational messaging framework and then expanding it to specific personas and behaviors.Training AI tools like Grammarly to maintain brand tone and partnering with specialized AI vendors to leverage data in impactful ways can improve efficiency and ensure company communications remain aligned with brand messaging.-------------------“A lot of people think customer experience is about delighting the customer and I disagree. I think most of us, in our day-to-day lives, what we're trying to achieve is we're trying to get the information we want and we're trying to move on to the next thing. If you're marketing correctly, you've captured that signal, you've given them a message and you can always follow up with a nurture.” – Des Cahill-------------------Episode Timestamps:‍*(02:35) - Des's career journey*(06:21) - Trends impacting customer experience*(12:02) - Personalization strategies*(22:24) - How Tipalti is building practical AI strategies‍*(35:04) - Des's recommendations for upleveling customer experience strategies-------------------Links:Connect with Des on LinkedInConnect with Kailey on LinkedInLearn more about Caspian Studios-------------------SponsorGood Data, Better Marketing is brought to you by Twilio Segment. In today's digital-first economy, being data-driven is no longer aspirational. It's necessary. Find out why over 20,000 businesses trust Segment to enable personalized, consistent, real-time customer experiences by visiting Segment.com

Dreaming in Color
Tarik Ward: Dreaming of Life Without Limitations

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 50:30 Transcription Available


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode of Dreaming In Color, guest host Angela Maldonado, a partner at Bridgespan, welcomes Tarik Ward, Director of Global Strategic Operations and U.S. Programs at ELMA Philanthropies. As the manager of digital and physical infrastructure for ELMA Philanthropy Services, Tarik oversees their operations in New York, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kampala. He also directs U.S. programming for the ELMA Music Foundation, ELMA U.S. Foundation, and ELMA Caribbean Foundation.Tarik's innovative approach has significantly expanded the reach and impact of the ELMA Music Foundation both in the U.S. and South Africa. His collaborations with organizations using music for youth development are transforming lives and creating brighter futures.With a career journey as diverse as it is impressive, Tarik has worked as a flight controller for the International Space Station at NASA, a consultant at Deloitte focusing on education and early childhood development nonprofits, and as the COO of the Commit! Partnership, a nonprofit dedicated to quality education access in Dallas, Texas.Tarik holds a B.S. in aerospace engineering from MIT, an M.B.A., and an M.A. in education from Stanford University. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a passionate trumpet player and has amassed a digital music collection of nearly 100,000 songs.Join us as we dive into Tarik's journey, explore his insights on the educational potential of music, and discover how his work is making a global impact.Jump Straight Into:(00:22.1) Introduction of Angela Maldonado, Partner at Bridgespan.(00:52.1) Introduction of Tarik Ward, Director of Global Strategic Operations and U.S. Programs at ELMA Philanthropies. (01:55.1) Tarik reminisces on the memory of his mother and how she inspired him to dream and learn music.(06:22.8) Tarik takes us on his journey from musician, to MIT student to eventually flying spaceships for NASA.(11:56.6) Tarik tells us how he met his wife and how she inspired his journey to Stanford and eventually into education and non-profit work.(18:28.9) Tarik talks about his non-traditional approach to funding and how he builds relationships with other leaders of color. (22:19.1) Tarik comments on the current state of philanthropy and paints us a picture of what he hopes the future will look like. Episode Resources: Connect with Tarik through LinkedIn.Learn more about ELMA Philanthropies through their website. Follow Tarik on Twitter.Read Tarik's interview with Entartain Impact here. Learn more about Jamaican composer and musician Ansel Collins here and follow him on Instagram here. Listen to the Dreaming In Color Spotify Playlist here.

Untapped Philanthropy
How Can Funders Effectively Support Advocacy Efforts?

Untapped Philanthropy

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 32:05


Guests: Debby Bielak and Liz JainIn this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, Debby Bielak and Liz Jain from Bridgespan discuss their latest research on funding advocacy. They provide a comprehensive primer on the different types of advocacy, share success stories, and offer practical advice for funders looking to support systemic change. Discover how to navigate the complexities of advocacy funding and leverage it to drive meaningful impact.Supplemental resources:Betting on the Tortoise: Policy Incrementalism and How Philanthropy's Support Can Turn Small Sustained Steps into Big ImpactUsing All the Tools in the Toolkit: Funding Advocacy for Social ChangeTo learn more about Bridgespan Group, visit: www.bridgespan.orgTo learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.ioTo learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.comEpisodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording.

Dreaming in Color
Rukaiyah Adams: Dreaming of Visionary Capital

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 51:37 Transcription Available


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode, our guest host, Jasmine Reliford, a Manager at Bridgespan, welcomes Rukaiyah Adams, a distinguished financier from Portland and CEO of 1803 Fund. Listen as Rukaiyah talks about navigating her career and the challenges of investing in community wealth. Rukaiyah shares her reflections on the unique history of Portland's Albina neighborhood, the effects of systemic racism, and the importance of building a beloved community. Emphasizing the contributions and resilience of Black women, the conversation explores the creation of the 1803 Fund, a venture designed to empower Black Portlanders through strategic investment, advocacy, and inclusive planning. They also discuss the personal sacrifices and triumphs involved in leading such an initiative, underscoring the significance of collective achievement over individual success.This is Dreaming In Color. Jump Straight To: (01:05.2) Introduction of Rukaiyah Adams, CEO of 1803 Fund.(03:18.6)) Water In Motion: Rukaiyah discusses her love for Portland and how her family came to set roots in the city that, like water in motion, is always in motion. (09:16.5) Rukaiyah discusses being an example of policy outcome and the excellent education she experience attending school in Portland's Albina neighborhood.(14:00.6) Money as a measure of energy: Rukaiyah explains the different forms of capital and how she strives to be the capitalist that teaches the next generations to convert creative or socia captial into financial capital for collective benefit. (19:00.9) “Woe is me” vs. “whoa, it's me.” Rukaiyah embraces her struggle and reflects on the heroism of Black women in the industry and the sacrifices they endure to reach career and life milestones.(22:09.9) Rukaiyah explores the difference between working for freedom vs. working for liberation. (37:09:9) We learn the origin story behind 1803 Fund.Episode Resources: Connect with Rukaiyah on LinkedInLearn more about 1803 Fund through their websiteLearn about the history of Portland's Albina neighborhood here.Learn more about Albina Vision Trust through their website. Watch Rukaiyah's TEDx Talk “A Love Letter to Portland.”Watch Rukaiyah's TEDx Talk “Homegirls' Guide to Being Powerful”Explore the Alvin Ailey Dance theatre Rukaiyah references here. Listen to the Dreaming In Color Spotify Playlist here.

The Nonprofit Show
Learning From Next-Gen Leaders

The Nonprofit Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 31:53


Exploring the challenges and triumphs faced by emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector, from the fresh perspectives that Generation Z brings to the table, with guests Anum Qadir and Christian Celeste Tate from the Bridgespan Group. Watch on video!Host Julia Patrick kicks off this eye-opening chat by acknowledging the frequent exclusion of young leaders from critical discussions about the future. "It's just a bunch of old people like me yammering on and not engaging our next-gen leaders," she remarks, setting the stage for this thought-provoking dialogue. Christian Celeste Tate, who co-hosts Bridgespan's "Dreaming in Color" podcast, shares key takeaways from their recent season, which focuses on elevating leaders of color within the social sector. "One of the most powerful messages for me personally comes from Michael Tubbs," Christian says, referencing the former mayor of Stockton, CA. Tubbs emphasizes the importance of identifying not just what we want to succeed for but what we are willing to fail for. "That measure is such a different bar that really requires you to reflect on what's important to you and what you're willing to go out on a limb for." Anum Qadir, also from the Bridgespan Group, speaks on the necessity of embracing risk, particularly for young leaders who might feel intimidated by the possibility of failure. She highlights the different forms that risk can take and emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries. "You can't even imagine what's possible unless you're willing to try and push those boundaries," Anum states, drawing from her own experiences and those of her colleagues. The trio dig into the importance of celebrating success as a form of activism. Anum shares insights from a conversation with Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital, who proposes that celebrating success not only sustains individuals but also serves as a model for others. "Success is a form of activism. It helps us see that even when things get hard, there is progress being made," Anum quotes, which points out the dual benefit of personal and communal upliftment. Christian and Anum touch on the necessity of creating inclusive and supportive environments. Christian notes that building a new world involves risk and requires bold, imaginative steps. "When we're building a world that doesn't exist today, there's no way forward that doesn't involve risk," he says, advocating for a mindset that embraces both success and failure as part of the journey. Continuing, about the dynamics of leadership, in relation to gender and cultural expectations, Anum reflects on her own upbringing in a South Asian household and the cultural nuances that influence one's approach to leadership. She emphasizes the values of listening to and integrating diverse perspectives, saying that true progress comes from acknowledging and harnessing the full potential of a group's collective brilliance. The episode ends with a reflection on the concept of radical love in leadership. Christian and Anum agree that embodying the values we strive for in our day-to-day actions is crucial. "If we're not practicing love in our day-to-day work, we can't expect to find it in the world we're building," Christian asserts. This conversation is rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, putting on display the vital role of next-gen leaders in shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and empathetic future for the nonprofit sector.Follow us on the Twitter: @Nonprofit_ShowSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Dreaming in Color
Liz Thompson: Dreaming of Love That Transforms

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2024 38:16


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode, Nithin Iyengar, Partner at Bridgespan and head of the San Francisco office, sits down with longtime friend, Liz Thompson, the President, Co-founder, and CEO of The Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education Group (The CAFE Group), which supports leaders of color through financial and programmatic aid. The CAFE Group aims to create a pathway from college intern to established leader, leveraging community genius to drive systemic change.Liz's nonprofit career began in 1993 as the founding Executive Director of City Year Chicago, influencing the AmeriCorps Program's development. She later expanded the Early Head Start program at Family Star Montessori School in Denver as its Executive Director. Before her nonprofit work, Liz had a successful decade-long career with Ameritech Corporation. In this intimate conversation, Liz Thompson discusses her journey from growing up in Cabrini Green to becoming a transformative figure in philanthropy. Liz and Nithin explore themes of radical love, leadership, and service. Liz shares her experiences with challenging philanthropic relationships, her dedication to supporting Black educational visionaries who she likes to call Luminaries, and the founding of the CAFE Group. She guides us through the significance of authentic relationships, collective action, and the joy of giving. Liz reflects on her mentors, the future of education, and the emotional weight of her work before giving insights on self-care, the essence of freedom, and the power of love in her life and work.This is Dreaming In Color. Jump Straight Into: (1:14:3) Introduction of Liz Thompson, CEO of CAFE Group(4:52:2) Liz reflects on growing up in her beloved Cabrini Green community in Chicago. (11:28:9) Liz shares the origin story of how she Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education with her husband. (12:58:7) We explore the inspiration behind the origins of the 1954 Project.(16:59:5) Liz and Nithin discuss creating strategy that changes the philanthropic landscape.(27:30:6) Liz paints a picture of how she imagines the future of education.Episode Resources Connect with Liz on LinkedIn hereLearn more about CAFE Group here. Learn more about the 1954 Project here and read Bridgespan's case study about it here. Listen to the Dreaming In Color Spotify Playlist here.

Dreaming in Color
Dreaming In Color Season 4 Trailer

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 1:06


 Y'all, I'm back! Welcome to Dreaming in Color, where we sit down with social change leaders of color to learn how their unique life experiences have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek.I'm your host, Darren Isom, and this season I'm lucky to have a few of my Bridgespan colleagues dropping in to join me as guest hosts. Join us for Dreaming in Color, available every Thursday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Dry Powder: The Private Equity Podcast
Data-Driven Impact Investing w/ Bridgespan's William Foster

Dry Powder: The Private Equity Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2024 17:15


Private equity firms are developing measures of success that go far beyond carbon footprints.

The R.A.C.E. Podcast
Flourishing As An Organization and A Society with Jeff Bradach

The R.A.C.E. Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2024 41:13


Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 3 of The R.A.C.E. Podcast. Today's conversation is with a fellow consultant and colleague, Jeff Bradach, Co-Founder of Bridgespan. Our discussion is filled with new knowledge and connection points and centers around the importance of ….. in the world of Philanthropy. A special thank you to Jeff for his time, work, and colleagueship.Meet Jeff Bradach:Jeff Bradach is co-founder and former managing partner of The Bridgespan Group. In this role he leads the organization's strategy and mission for accelerating social impact. He works directly with foundations, philanthropists and nonprofit organizations to help them scale the programs that work. Jeff writes, teaches, and speaks extensively on topics relating to nonprofit strategy, business planning, and philanthropy.Prior to establishing The Bridgespan Group, Bradach taught at Harvard Business School, where he was a member of the Organizational Behavior and the Social Enterprise Initiative faculty. Jeff began his career at Bain & Company. He is a graduate of Stanford University, elected Phi Beta Kappa, and completed his master's in sociology and PhD in organizational behavior at Harvard University. He serves on several nonprofit boards, including the board of directors for Independent Sector.Listen in as Jeff shares:His identities and how they impact how he shows up in the worldHow his identity as a trained Academician has influenced his journeyHow he challenges himself to go deeperWhat he would like folks to know, do, and feel in the Philanthropic space, and moreConnect with Jeff Bradach:Website: BridgespanLinkedIn: Jeff BradachHi listener! Please take our short Listener Survey HERE to give The R.A.C.E. Podcast team feedback on the show. We will use the feedback to inform how we approach conversations in the future. Upon completion, you will be entered in our quarterly drawing for a $100 Visa gift card! Your email address will only be used for this purpose. Thanks in advance - we appreciate your feedback.Connect with Keecha Harris and Associates: Website: https://khandassociates.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/keecha-harris-and-associates/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/khandassociates YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukpgXjuOW-ok-pHtVkSajg/featured Connect with Keecha: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keechaharris/

Dreaming in Color
Robert Rooks: Dreaming of Justice Reimagined

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2024 37:17 Transcription Available


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Christian Celeste Tate and Anum Qadir from The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode, Christian interviews Robert Rooks, CEO of REFORM Alliance, founded after the unjust re-imprisonment of recording artist Meek Mill. Robert is one of the nation's premier criminal justice reformers with over two decades of experience as a grassroots organizer, strategist, and movement leader. Under Robert's leadership, REFORM has won major legislative reforms to transform probation and parole systems in California, Georgia, and Mississippi and has lifted up the experiences of people on supervision to educate the public and build support for broader change. Robert co-founded the Alliance for Safety and Justice before joining REFORM, expanding it to eight states with high incarceration rates and leading advocacy efforts for criminal justice reform nationwide, resulting in legislative wins like the Neighborhood Safety Act in Illinois. He directed successful campaigns such as Yes on Proposition 47 and Yes on Proposition 57 in California, which reduced incarceration rates and increased parole eligibility. Additionally, Robert played a key role in fundraising for Florida's Amendment 4, restoring voting rights for over one million individuals with past convictions.Join this conversation as Robert paints a picture of what our society can look like if we “educate not incarcerate.” This is Dreaming in Color. Jump straight into: (0:32) Introduction of Robert Rooks: CEO of REFORM Alliance.(2:22) Robert shares how his upbringing inspired his passion for prison reform.(7:26) Robert discusses how reform legislation in the last 20 years has made strides toward a better justice system and dreams about what the next 20 years will bring. (9:03) We visit the story of Meek Mill's unjust incarceration and how that spurred the beginnings of REFORM Alliance.(13:53) Robert illustrates a picture of society with true reform. (20:38) Abolition vs. reform(22:10) We need everybody and how investing in community organizers is the pathway to change. Episode ResourcesConnect with Robert Rooks on LinkedIn and InstagramLearn more about the REFORM Alliance through their websiteFollow the REFORM Alliance on X, LinkedIn and InstragramRead about Robert's work in Bridgespan's report on philanthropy and the criminal legal system Learn more about Alliance for Safety and Justice through their websiteRead Robert's interview with

Dreaming in Color
Brea Baker: Dreaming of Radical Love

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 39:54


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Christian Celeste Tate and Anum Qadir from The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode, we speak with Brea Baker, a Freedom Fighter and Writer working on the frontlines for nearly a decade. She began as a student activist, contributing to #NextYale, a movement to address the legacy of white supremacy on Yale's campus, the Women's March of 2017 where she was the youngest national organizer, and the 2018 student walkouts against gun violence. In her professional career, Brea has contributed to dozens of electoral and advocacy campaigns. She advises storytellers, celebrities, and industry leaders on building our collective imagination and responding thoughtfully to social justice movements. To add to that, Brea's book, Rooted: The American Legacy of Land Theft and the Modern Movement for Black Land Ownership is set to release on June 18th. Rooted traces the experiences of Brea's own family's history of having land violently taken from them and explores historic attacks on Black land ownership to better understand the racial wealth gap. Join this conversation as Brea takes us on her family's tumultuous journey of land ownership ultimately leading to the “Baker Acres”—a haven for her family, and a palace where they are surrounded by love, sustained by the land, and wholly free. Listen as she paints a picture of a world post-reparations.This is Dreaming in Color. Jump straight into: (0:32) Introduction of Brea Baker: Freedom Fighter and Author.(3:13) Land theft as the original sin that makes colonialism possible.(4:18) Brea shares her origins as a student organizer.(10:03) Brea's delves into her family's history and how the violent theft of her family's land led to her activism.(18:31) Brea paints a picture of reparations in its different forms—the physical, as in the restatement of land and wealth but also the emotional and spiritual, like holding space for grief and rage.(27:20) Brea speaks on her role as an artist and writer and the responsibility of being society's truth teller and recorder of history.(30:52) Holding space for radical love.Episode ResourcesKeep up with Brea on Twitter and InstagramLearn more about Brea through her website.Order Brea's book Rooted here and read her writing in Elle, Refinery29, Harper's Bazaar, and Sweet JulyLearn more about reparations through Bridgespan's special collection

Fund The People: A Podcast with Rusty Stahl
Bridging the Gap: How a Major Consulting Firm (Unintentionally) Misled the Nonprofit Sector

Fund The People: A Podcast with Rusty Stahl

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2024 13:33


In this episode, we offer a critique of a big idea that has led philanthropy and the nonprofit sector astray since 2006, and has negatively impacted our workforce. And I'm going to tell you how Fund the People has been challenging this idea and reframing the issue. The Bridgespan Group is a major consulting firm serving foundations and nonprofits that was co-founded in 2000 by two Bain and Company executives. In the early days of 2006, Bridgespan caused a huge stir in the sector when they declared that there is a “deficit of leadership in the nonprofit sector.” Their research suggested that when long-serving Baby Boomer executive directors retired, there would statistically not be enough Generation X to fill their seats. And, they said, with the number of nonprofits growing each year, the number of seats would keep getting bigger as the population to fill them got smaller. The study was based on deficit thinking. And while it sought to encourage investment in nonprofit executives, it had all kinds of unintended consequences. Resources: Bridgespan Group's 2006 report The Nonprofit Sector's Leadership Deficit Bridgespan Group's 2015 article The Leadership Development Deficit Building Movement Project's article The New Lifecycle of Work This episode is part of our Rusty's Rants and Reflections series. The series offers Rusty's provocative reflections and ideas about investing in the nonprofit workforce.  Go to our website for a transcript of this episode. You can find all the episodes of this podcast plus our blog, toolkit and other resources on our website, ⁠⁠fundthepeople.org⁠⁠. And we invite you to learn from all the amazing past guests of Fund the People - A Podcast with Rusty Stahl at ⁠fundthepeople.org/ftp_podcast⁠.

Purposely Podcast
#176 Brit leading the way in philanthropy downunder, Jo Taylor CEO The Siddle Family Foundation

Purposely Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2023 58:34


Introducing Jo Taylor, the Chief Executive Officer of the Siddle Family Foundation, to Purposely. Jo sheds light on her professional and personal odyssey from the UK to Australia and the impact of her partner—a medical professional whose dreams of a life downunder set the stage for their move. We delve into her her leadership role in philanthropy and how the work she is involved in is reshaping the narrative around giving and philanthropy.  After 23 years, Jo is now happily married to her partner, and they are parents to two children. Having spent two decades in Bondi, they recently moved to the Mid North Coast region.   Contrary to her initial career plan of becoming a lawyer, Jo has emerged as a leader in the philanthropy sector in Australia. Leveraging her legal studies, her involvement in Raise & Give (RAG) during her tenure at the University of Leicester, and her experience as a fundraiser in the charity sector, Jo brings a substantial depth of knowledge and expertise to her current role   Jo shares her professional journey from lawyer to philanthropy leader. This transformation involves her engagement in 'Pay What It Takes' (PWIT), a coalition between for purpose organisations and funders aiming to redefine philanthropy and reshape the funding landscape for the charitable sector. Serving as the Chair of this Coalition, Jo and the PWIT Steering Committee drew inspiration from the impactful work of Bridgespan and Foundations in the United States, prompting crucial questions about the level of financial support provided by Australian funders. Their objective is to challenge the cycle of underfunding and organisational challenges by advocating for unrestricted funding or a 30% addition to project-based funding to adequately cover indirect costs.   A pivotal catalyst for this movement was the inquiry titled 'A Sector in Peril,' laying the foundation for collaboration among like-minded foundations. The Coalition led by Jo, and comprising Philanthropy Australia, the Centre for Social Impact, Social Ventures Australia, The Origin Foundation, and the Paul Ramsay Foundation, conducted comprehensive research, interviews, literature reviews, case studies, and workshops to address chronic underfunding of core operational expenses within Australian organizations. The vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the critical need for adequate funding.   Jo emphasises the necessity to challenge misconceptions surrounding indirect costs and advocates for a redefined evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness by funders. This paradigm shift demands courage and peer leadership within the sector, recognising the entrenched mental models ingrained in both funders and nonprofit organizations that need to be reshaped.   Despite the challenges, the Pay What It Takes movement is gaining momentum, offering optimism for a sector striving for genuine impact and change. The collaboration aims to redefine the philanthropic landscape in Australia, ensuring that organisations receive sufficient funding to effect lasting, impactful change.   Throughout her professional journey, Jo's commitment to social justice has been profoundly shaped by personal aspirations, life experiences, and the influence of her parents, particularly her mother. Her story serves as a compelling inspiration for those seeking to make a meaningful difference in the world of philanthropy. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mark-longbottom2/message

Progressive Pockets
94. Why the Rich Don't Give

Progressive Pockets

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 21:07 Transcription Available


Every day we read headlines about the ultra wealthy announcing their intentions to donate portions of their fortunes...but then they often don't actually do it. Is it greed? Or is there something else that is preventing the ultra wealthy from donating? Tune in this week to find out why they don't give, and how we can apply those lessons to our own lives.Links from today's episode:https://www.bridgespan.org/getmedia/37911384-bac3-4a5c-8c3d-8ddafd21f928/four-pathways-to-greater-giving-no-appendix.pdf?ext=.pdfSupport the show

THRIVERS: Nonprofit Leadership for the Next Normal
Breaking the “Accountability” Stigma

THRIVERS: Nonprofit Leadership for the Next Normal

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 35:54


What do you think of when you hear the word, “accountability”?For most people, it immediately brings to mind all the negative aspects of accountability, namely being held responsible for a mistake. This limited view of the word creates a tension between holding folks "accountable" and allowing them to learn.What if this understanding of accountability isn't just limited, but detrimental? (Spoiler alert: it is.)In the newest episode of THRIVERS, Tucker and Sarah explore the benefits of embracing continuous learning as an essential facet of organizational accountability. They explore the meanings of accountability and learning. Then they take it a step further and question if those two things are actually different or opposed to each other at all. Tucker and Sarah's conversation springs from an article written by Amy Edmondson, a professor and researcher at Harvard, who introduced a radical shift in perspective—viewing goals as hypotheses. This simple yet profound change in viewpoint encourages organizations to be more adaptable, understanding, and genuinely responsible.Drawing inspiration from the article and backed by findings from a Bridgespan report, they cover:Understanding the reasons behind missed objectives, creating space for learning, and strategy realignment.How pauses and introspection can lead to more genuine accountability, allowing organizations to reassess and adapt.Instead of fearing mistakes, organizations should embrace them as learning opportunities, continuously iterating to enhance their strategies and drive meaningful change.Tune into this episode for an enlightening exploration into redefining accountability and emphasizing the power of continuous learning to help organizations stay both adaptable and responsible.Listener Links/Resources:Amy Edmonson - Learning from Failure - https://hbr.org/2011/04/strategies-for-learning-from-failurehttps://www.bridgespan.org/insights/creating-a-culture-of-learning-and-accountabilityhttps://culturepartners.com/resources/a-culture-of-accountability/ Need to create a strategic plan (or breathe life into your existing one)? Schedule a free Design Session and we'll explore the areas of opportunity and co-create a plan that fits your organization's needs and budget.Schedule a Design Session

Business Day Spotlight
Impact investing made difficult in Africa

Business Day Spotlight

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2023 35:04


The difficulty faced by impact investors in accessing funds in Africa is the focus in this edition of the Business Day Spotlight. Our host Mudiwa Gavaza is joined by Bernard Chidzero, senior advisor to The Bridgespan Group. Topics of discussion include: Bridgespan's business model; challenges facing Africa-based fund managers in accessing capital for social impact; a definition of impact investing; comparisons with venture and other types of funding on the continent. Business Day Spotlight is a TimesLIVE Production

Dreaming in Color
LIVE in New Orleans at Essence Fest!

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 79:36


Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek. In this episode, we journey down to New Orleans during Essence Fest for Bridgespan's very first live episode recording, a panel highlighting Black women in philanthropy moderated by Tonyel Edwards, a partner at The Bridgespan Group.Join us as Tonyel hosts a kitchen table conversation with a panel of Black women leading some of the most innovative thinking on equitable philanthropy: Morgan Dawson, co-CEO of Threshold Philanthropy, Tynesha McHarris, co-Founder of Black Feminist Fund, Carmen James Randolph, founding President / CEO at Women's Foundation of the South, and Susan K. Thomas, president of Melville Charitable Trust. Listen as these remarkable women discuss their pathway into philanthropy, the unique assets that come from being a Black woman leading in the space, and all of the ways they have navigated and changed the landscape of giving in support of a more just, equitable and colorful future. This is Dreaming in Color. Jump straight into: (1:02) Starting things off with a James Baldwin Invocation (3:55) Darren brings the words of Donald L. Hollowell into the space (8:36) Introducing panel moderator Tonyel Edwards(10:03) Learn about all the different hats our panelists are wearing as Black women (19:14) Carmen references writer Toni Morrison - "As you enter positions of power and influence, dream before you think."(34:40) Tynesha emphasizes the philosophy of being a “principled” leader. (47:47) Power sharing, wealth redistribution and giving something up knowing that it's not yours.(51:45) “Hold your North,” and other thoughts on navigating the terrain of the philanthropic sector(53:18) Best practices for building and leading in philanthropy.(1:09:51) Rest as revolutionEpisode ResourcesConnect with our panelists through LinkedIn: Tonyel Edwards, Morgan Dawson, Tynesha McHarris, Carmen James Randolph, Susan K. Thomas.Learn more about the organizations these panelists lead: Threshold Philanthropy (Morgan Dawson), The Black Feminist Fund (Tynesha McHarris), Women's Foundation of the South (Carmen James Randolph), Melville Charitable Trust (Susan K. Thomas)Discover the historical contributions of civil rights attorney Donald L. Hollowell Learn more about the work and contributions of the Black women in philanthropy named throughout the segment: Black Feminist Fund co-founders, Hakima Abbas and

The Heart of Giving Podcast
Jacob Harold's Tool Kit for Nonprofits

The Heart of Giving Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2023 45:00


Jacob Harold is a social change strategist, author, and executive. He served as CEO of GuideStar, co-founder of Candid, and as a staff leader at the Hewlett Foundation, Bridgespan, Greenpeace, and Rainforest Action Network. Harold studied ethics at Duke and earned an MBA at Stanford.

The Impact Room
New money

The Impact Room

Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2023 78:43


Mosun Layode, Bheki Moyo, and Degan Ali discuss development funding and philanthropy in Africa.Just 14 percent of large gifts by international donors get to local NGOs in Africa, and only 9 percent of large gifts by African funders are channelled to proximate organisations, according to Bridgespan research. The rest of the money goes to governments and international NGOs.Why this happens – and what it means for on-the-ground organisations, programming, and final impact – is at the heart of this episode of The Impact Room, where we take a deep dive into African development funding and the thorny topic of decolonising aid.Host Maysa Jalbout  explores the barriers to funding grassroots entities in Africa and why the status quo is so hard to shift – but also hear about some new solutions designed to “shift the power” from donor to implementer and create more equitable partnerships.Mosun Layode, the executive director of the African Philanthropy Forum (APF), which was formed in 2014 to shift the needle on development funding on the continent, kicks off the episode with a detailed landscape analysis of leading funders and innovative initiatives.  Layode, who is also a board member of Candid and Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, calls for greater collaboration among donors to amplify impact and tackle systemic issues. Professor Bheki Moyo, chair and director of the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI), at Wits University Business School in Johannesburg, South Africa appeals to philanthropists to do more to fund African civil society working on “abstract” causes, such as human rights and policy issues, rather than just supporting “materialistic” initiatives such as building schools or donating computers.Maysa's third guest, Degan Ali, is the executive director of Adeso, a development and humanitarian NGO working in the Horn of Africa.  She shares her views on why the current funding system for aid and development isn't working, the opportunities for philanthropy to seed new approaches, and how donors can operate more equitably.A long-time activist and leading voice in the aid localization debate, Ali has recently spearheaded the launch of the Pledge for Change, calling on iNGOs to commit more equitable partnerships and authentic storytelling to create a stronger aid ecosystem based on the principles of solidarity, humility, self-determination and equality.The books, articles, and organisations mentioned in this episode include:Higherlife FoundationThe Tony Elumelu FoundationAspire Coronation Trust (ACT) FoundationKujaLinkDr. Arikana ChihomboriHoward NicholsThe art of gathering: how we meet and why it matters -  by Priya Parker Shifting sands, shifting power - Social Investor MagazineThe Impact Room is brought to you by Philanthropy Age and Maysa Jalbout. This episode was produced and edited by Louise Redvers. Find us on social media @PhilanthropyAge

Progress, Potential, and Possibilities
Mariah Collins - The Bridgesapn Group - Impact Investing To Address Society's Most Important Challenges & Opportunities

Progress, Potential, and Possibilities

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2023 44:18


Mariah Collins ( https://www.bridgespan.org/team-members/mariah-collins ) is a Partner at The Bridgespan Group, a global nonprofit, that strives to make the world more equitable and just. Since 2000, they have had the privilege of advising and collaborating with many of the world's most extraordinary social change leaders including philanthropists, nonprofit and NGO leaders, and impact investors. The Bridgespan Group is passionate about helping social change leaders find solutions to economic and social barriers that perpetuate inequities and prevent individuals, families, and communities from having access to opportunities they need to thrive. They use rigorous research to gain insights that help clients solve problems and achieve their goals. Mariah leads Bridgespan's Measurement, Evaluation, and Learning Area of Expertise and co-leads the Public Health Area of Expertise. She has experience working with philanthropists, donor collaboratives, foundations, nonprofits, and impact investors. With her philanthropy clients, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Foundation, Mariah helped to design high-impact strategies (including many big bets), strengthen operations, set grantmaking priorities, determine impact targets, and identify potential grantees. Mariah's nonprofit clients include Compass Working Capital, East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, Nurse-Family Partnership, and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. With these clients, she has primarily focused on growth strategy and measurement. Mariah recently published an article on how Nonprofits can Incorporate Equity into their Measurement, Evaluation, and Learning. Mariah's impact investing clients include Texas Pacific Group's (TPG) Rise Fund—where Bridgespan partnered to develop and deliver rigorous, quantitative impact underwriting, as detailed in Harvard Business Review's “Calculating the Value of Impact Investing.” Mariah has also explored opportunities for family offices and high-net-worth individuals to get involved in "impact-first" forms of impact investing in the article “Back to the Frontier: Investing that Puts Impact First.” Mariah has a longstanding interest in the social determinants of health and co-authored “The Community Cure for Health Care” for Stanford Social Innovation Review and “Why Big Health Systems are Investing in Community Health” for Harvard Business Review online as well as “With the ACA Under Fire, Can Health Conversion Foundations Patch the Safety Net for Low-Income Americans” in Health Affairs Grantwatch Blog. Mariah holds a Master of Science degree from the T.H. Chan Harvard School of Public Health. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude from Brandeis University where she studied health policy/public health and environmental studies. Support the show

Let's Hear It
Jacob Harold's New Book Will Make Your Head Hurt (in a good way)!

Let's Hear It

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2023 55:24


Many of us spend a career doing something, gathering stories, ideas, skills, and things like that and think to ourselves, “Hmmm. All this stuff I've learned might make a good book,” and then go right back to the brewpub for another Hazy IPA. Not Jacob Harold. Mind you, Jacob has had quite a rather distinguished career – he's been a community organizer, a Bridgespan consultant, a Hewlett Foundation grantmaker, the CEO of Guidestar, and the co-founder of Candid, among other things. After stepping down from Candid, Jacob endeavored to write it all down – not in a self-congratulatory memoir (which is what Eric hopes to do when he gets home from the brewpub), but in an extremely comprehensive and articulate guide to doing good in the 21st century. The book, The Toolbox: Strategies for Crafting Social Impact is quite simply one of the very best guides of its kind that we have seen. Eric sits down with his former colleague to discuss Jacob's career and how to apply the nine tools for social change, and Eric tells Jacob why the book made his head hurt (in a good way).

Let's Hear It
Jacob Harold's New Book Will Make Your Head Hurt (in a good way)!

Let's Hear It

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2023 55:24


Many of us spend a career doing something, gathering stories, ideas, skills, and things like that and think to ourselves, “Hmmm. All this stuff I've learned might make a good book,” and then go right back to the brewpub for another Hazy IPA. Not Jacob Harold. Mind you, Jacob has had quite a rather distinguished career – he's been a community organizer, a Bridgespan consultant, a Hewlett Foundation grantmaker, the CEO of Guidestar, and the co-founder of Candid, among other things. After stepping down from Candid, Jacob endeavored to write it all down – not in a self-congratulatory memoir (which is what Eric hopes to do when he gets home from the brewpub), but in an extremely comprehensive and articulate guide to doing good in the 21st century. The book, The Toolbox: Strategies for Crafting Social Impact is quite simply one of the very best guides of its kind that we have seen. Eric sits down with his former colleague to discuss Jacob's career and how to apply the nine tools for social change, and Eric tells Jacob why the book made his head hurt (in a good way).

Why Change? A Podcast for the Creative Generation
S2 E17: Moving to Abundance with Darren Isom

Why Change? A Podcast for the Creative Generation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2022 59:20


During this episode of Why Change? co-hosts Ashraf and Jeff catch up among seasons of change. Ashraf shares his interview with Darren Isom who is a partner at the Bridgespan Group and host of the Dreaming in Color podcast. The discussion covers topics of leadership, knowledge, and finding from leaders of color. In this episode you'll learn: About work which catalyzes and amplifies efforts to share knowledge from leaders of color in culture, education, and philanthropy; How creative learning reimagines arts leaders as educators, arts students as future dreamers and leaders, and funders as equity workers; and The role of ecosystems to cultivate the conditions for the integration of the arts into funding. Equity, and leadership development. ABOUT DARREN ISOM: Darren Isom is a partner in The Bridgespan Group's San Francisco office. He first joined the firm as a consultant in 2007, left as a manager in 2014 and returned as a partner in 2019. During his earlier tenure with Bridgespan, Darren was engaged with a diverse array of cases and was consistently lauded for building deep, enduring client relationships, helping clients develop bold yet pragmatic strategies, and his commitment to amplifying community voice and engagement in developing and leading innovative, high-impact youth and community programs, practices, and philanthropy. After leaving Bridgespan in 2014, Darren was the founder and executive director of the Memphis Music Initiative (MMI), an ambitious five-year, $20M grantmaking and community arts development initiative. He led efforts to use targeted investments and programmatic offerings to strengthen youth and community music engagement activities for low-income, Black, and Latino youth and communities. It has also sponsored research to create a national conversation on the importance of community engagement and inclusion, disruptive philanthropy, and the powerful role of arts investments in driving equitable, high-impact community outcomes. To launch and lead the organization, Darren built strategic relationships with arts organizations, musicians, schools, funders, community, public, and private groups; built the team, including a diverse and inclusive board and 20 staff; and developed a robust infrastructure for delivering results in Memphis and the Mid-South, a particularly racialized region. Before Bridgespan he worked as the art, design, and public programming director for Times Square Alliance, planning and implementing programming for public art and performance initiatives throughout the Times Square District. Prior to working at Times Square Alliance, Darren served as VP of Programs for Groundwork. A seventh generation New Orleans native, Darren is a graduate of Howard University, Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris, and Columbia Business School's Institute for Nonprofit Management. An activist for disconnected youth and LGBT communities of color, he has served as an advisor to the leaders of several Bay Area, Southeast US, and national foundations. He currently serves on the board of Beloved Community of New Orleans, Collage Dance Collective of Memphis, Springboard to Opportunities in Jackson, MS, and the National Guild for Community Arts Education. This episode was produced by Ashraf Hashm; the executive producer is Jeff M. Poulin. The artwork is by Bridget Woodbury. Creative Generation's Digital Media Producer is Daniel Stanley. This podcasts' theme music is by Distant Cousins. For more information on this episode and Creative Generation please visit the episode's webpage and follow us on social media @Campaign4GenC --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whychange/support

The Sure Shot Entrepreneur
The Difference Between Success and Failure is Right Between Your Ears

The Sure Shot Entrepreneur

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2022 25:18


Mike Smerklo, co-founder and managing director at Next Coast Ventures, shares his journey and lessons learned through his experiences as an entrepreneur and now an investor. Mike gives practical examples of how founders can prudently build a relationship with investors right from the first meeting.In this episode, you'll learn:[7:14] Learning to silence “Mr.Monkey” in order to succeed as an entrepreneur[12:48] Why going after a bad market doesn't work even for great entrepreneurs[18:11] Are you obsessed about your idea but are always ready to take feedback?[20:43] Doing a bit of research on investors before meeting them can help a founder to avoid getting unnecessary no's.The non-profit organization Mike is passionate about: Mr. Monkey and MeAbout Guest SpeakerMike Smerklo is a Co Founder & Managing Director at Next Coast Ventures. Formerly, Mike was CEO of ServiceSource (SREV) and prior to that served as Director of Business Development at Opsware. He's also the author of “Mr. Monkey And Me,” a book which looks into the psychology and mental rigor of starting, growing and operating a successful business. About Next Coast VenturesNext Coast Ventures is an Austin-headquartered venture capital firm. Next Coast's thematic investing approach targets Texas and other emerging technology hubs. As one of the fastest-growing venture capital firms in Texas, the firm has invested in several standout technology companies across the U.S. Next Coast's portfolio companies include Navegate, Everlywell, Bridgespan, Tenfold/Callinize, Submittable, Brain Check, among others. Subscribe to our podcast and stay tuned for our next episode. Follow Us:  Twitter | Linkedin | Instagram | Facebook

Business of Giving
The Case for Connecting Global Philanthropy to Feminist Movements

Business of Giving

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2022 34:50


The following is a conversation with Pamela Shifman of Shake the Table and Nidhi Sahni of Bridgespan, and Denver Frederick, the Host of The Business of Giving. Many feminist movements have achieved their successes with only minimal philanthropic support. In fact, as of 2018, only about 1% of gender-focused international aid was directed to women's rights organizations. Lighting the way is a report for philanthropy on the power and promise of feminist movements. And here to discuss its findings are its two lead authors, Pamela Shifman of Shake the Table and Nidhi Sahni of Bridgespan.

Dreaming in Color
Nate Wong: Unlearning to Lead

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2022 42:11 Transcription Available


Show description Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show that provides a platform for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their lived experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead their work and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, we are joined by Nate Wong, Chief Strategy and Social Innovation Officer of the Beeck Center, an experiential hub to incubate emergent ideas in the social impact space. We talk about his cultural heritage and how his background as a cook helped to shape his current vision of the world. Plus, we discuss why unlearning is necessary in cultural healing processes and how he acknowledges this in his leadership coaching work. Join us and listen to this conversation where we reimagine models of coexistence and find keys for an equity-driven system. Jump straight into: (1:27) - Show Introduction: Nate reads a poem of the 13th century and shares childhood experiences in the kitchen that shaped his view of the world. (13:15) - The process of building a self-narrative to inspire others and play a cultural translator role. (19:53) - What it means to question our own assumptions: Market forces, meritocracy and different views of leadership. (25:12) - Unlearning to heal: The concept of “inner saboteur” and common underappreciated assets within Nate's coaching work with the BIPOC community. (30:03) - Capitalism reimagined: Discussing ‘enoughness' and storytelling as the ultimate tool for an equity-driven system. (36:28) - Examining the evolution of the traditional classroom format and the power of teaching: Final words of hope by Nate Wong.  Episode resources Connect with Nate Wong through https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanielkwong/ (LinkedIn) and https://twitter.com/nathanielkwong (Twitter) https://www.natewong.com/bio (Nate Wong | Homepage) Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color a https://www.bridgespan.org/ (Bridgespan) supported https://www.studiopodsf.com/ (StudioPod) production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided by https://nodalab.com/ (nodalab).  

Dreaming in Color
Ashindi Maxton: Winning the Battle for America's Imagination

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2022 40:07 Transcription Available


Show description Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show that provides a platform for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their lived experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead their work and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, our guest is Ashindi Maxton. She is a Co-founder and former Executive Director of the Donors of Color Network, an organization that offers a philanthropic and political home for high-net-worth donors of color committed to building power for and across communities of color. From racial equity and voting rights to climate justice and income inequality, Ashindi has had her finger on the pulse of where and importantly how we need to do and be better. Join in as we speak with Ashindi on bringing community and confidence to her work, leaning into healing and collective efforts, and demanding accountability and action. Jump straight into: (00:21) - Introducing Ashindi Maxton: Co-Founder of the Donors of Color Network and a truly brilliant mind. (01:47) - Ashindi pulls inspiration from a poem by Eve Ewing, Buddhism, and the Twitterverse. (06:32) - The ability to heal: Takeaways from Ashindi's early path in politics. (10:19) - “I know how this reality trickles down”: Experiences and principles that have driven Ashindi's career. (16:28) - ”Walk into the place like you own it”: On community, a sense of belonging in the social sector and the effectiveness of the Climate Justice Funders Pledge. (23:24) - A battle of imagination: Family stories and dystopian fictions that bring lessons on how to achieve victories for social justice.  (32:46) - New suns and surviving the end of the world. Episode resources Connect with Ashindi Maxton through https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashindi-maxton-970a5b24/ (LinkedIn) and https://www.instagram.com/ashindi/?hl=en (Instagram) Learn more about https://www.donorsofcolor.org/our-team/ (Donors of Color Network) including the https://climate.donorsofcolor.org/ (Climate Justice Funders Pledge) Check out https://www.octaviabutler.com/work (some of the written works) by Octavia E. Butler Read https://eveewing.com/electricarches (Electric Arches) by Eve L. Ewing Read https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Every-Step-Mindfulness-Everyday/dp/0553351397 (Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life) by Thich Nhat Hanh Read https://www.amazon.com/Savage-Inequalities-Children-Americas-Schools/dp/0770435688 (Savage Inequalities: Children in America's Schools) by Jonathan Kozol Read https://www.akpress.org/emergentstrategy.html (Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Words) by Adrienne Maree Brown and listen to the podcast https://www.endoftheworldshow.org/ (How to Survive the End of the World) hosted by Adrienne and her sister Autumn Brown Learn more about https://colorofchange.org/ (Color of Change) Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color ahttps://www.bridgespan.org/ ( Bridgespan) supportedhttps://www.studiopodsf.com/ ( StudioPod) production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided byhttps://nodalab.com/ ( nodalab).

Dreaming in Color
Raymond Foxworth, Ph.D.: Innovation & Indigenous Resistance

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022 33:56


Show description Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show that provides a platform for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their lived experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead their work and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, Raymond Foxworth joins the show to talk about his experience growing up in a matrilineal society, land preservation as part of his family heritage and the struggles of dealing with white dominant institutions. We address the current state of indigenous land rights and the pressure of representation to honor the legacy and sacrifice of past generations. Raymond shares his view on innovation and we question the general understanding of community development. Listen and connect with Ray's philosophy of believing and sharing! Jump straight into: (01:23) - Raymond reads Apologies, a poem by Haunani Kay Trask (and shares the breathtaking story behind it). (03:10) - Being a Navajo citizen in 2022: Matrilineal society roots, ethics, values, decisive moments to acquire critical analysis. (09:18) - Addressing colonialism struggles, sovereignty, liberation and Indigenous land rights. (12:50) - Acknowledging representation, role models and implications when navigating white dominant institutions. (20:03) - Innovation as a product of survival, problems within society's general understanding of community development and redefining what we conceive as assets. (27:32) - Believing and caring: The experiences that bring hope to Ray, a protective optimist. Episode resources Connect with Raymond Foxworth through https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymond-foxworth/ (LinkedIn) Learn more about https://www.rayfoxworth.com/ (Ray Foxword, Ph.D.) Learn more about https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-nations-development-institute/ (First Nations Development Institute)  Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color a https://www.bridgespan.org/ (Bridgespan) supported https://www.studiopodsf.com/ (StudioPod) production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided by https://nodalab.com/ (nodalab).

Dreaming in Color
Carmen Rojas, Ph.D.: The Promise & Curse of Philanthropy

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2022 36:52 Transcription Available


Show description Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show that provides a platform for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their lived experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead their work and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, Dr. Carmen Rojas, the President and Chief Executive Officer at the Marguerite Casey Foundation, joins the show. She shares stories of her upbringing as a child of Venezuelan and Nicaraguan immigrants, confronts the complexities and contradictions of the social sector, and offers us a space to think and dream boldly. We learn of the familial roots and values that shaped her path toward a Ph.D., brainstorm around collective liberation in an age of mass wealth and inequality, and discuss how philanthropy can sharpen its focus on social justice. Join us as we bask in Carmen's wit and wisdom.  Jump straight into: (00:21) - Introducing Dr. Carmen Rojas, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Marguerite Casey Foundation. (1:51) - Carmen shares a quote on optimism from Freedom is a Constant Struggle by Angela Davis. (03:24) - Moving to the US ​​at the peak of the civil rights movement: A cultural perspective on Carmen's roots and the family dynamics that shaped her. (09:19) - Liberation for the public sector: The people and events that encouraged Carmen to focus on social work. (14:18) - Everyone should be able to dream: Discussing the radical change that Carmen is working to achieve. (18:51) - Our collective being: How Carmen embraces the concept of contradiction to make it powerful and meaningful. (22:24) - The urgency of naming: Working to repair a broken system and shift philanthropy in a new direction (32:27) - A world organized around liberation: The hopes Carmen carries for our future Episode resources Follow Carmen Rojas through https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-rojas-phd-she-her-1b521316/ (LinkedIn) and https://twitter.com/crojasphd (Twitter) Read https://www.haymarketbooks.org/books/780-freedom-is-a-constant-struggle (Freedom is a Constant Struggle) by Angela Davis Read https://www.amazon.com/Song-Solomon-Toni-Morrison/dp/140003342X (Song of Solomon )by Toni Morrison Learn more about Dr. Manuel Pastor's https://dornsife.usc.edu/eri/manuel-pastor/ (research) Know more about https://www.caseygrants.org/ (Marguerite Casey Foundation) Learn more about https://greenlining.org/ (the Greenlining Institute)  Learn more about https://www.kaporcenter.org/ (the Kapor Center) Learn more about https://sff.org/team-members/fred-blackwell/ (Fred Blackwell) and https://sff.org/ (the San Francisco Foundation) Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color a https://www.bridgespan.org/ (Bridgespan) supported https://www.studiopodsf.com/ (StudioPod) production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided by https://nodalab.com/ (nodalab).

Dreaming in Color
Rhonda Broussard: Staying Centered in Joy

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2022 33:06 Transcription Available


Show description Hi! Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their life experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, we talk with Rhonda Broussard, an award-winning education entrepreneur, public speaker, a queer Black mother. She is a seasoned educator, global researcher, and the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Beloved Community, a national nonprofit committed to sustainable economic equity in schools, the workforce, and housing. Join this conversation as we discover how to open doors through language, trace the importance of our lineages and loved ones, and interrogate systems that have long needed to be corrected. Tune in as Rhonda returns to the chalkboard to teach us how to lean into our authentic selves, celebrate others, and channel diversity into impact.  Jump straight into: (00:21) - Introducing Rhonda Broussard, author, CEO of Beloved Community, veteran educator and researcher. (01:48) - An invocation to set the space, with a powerful quote from All About Love by bell hooks. (03:14) - Back to school with Darren: Where does Rhonda's joy come from?  (05:46) -  In community and conversation: Growing up in French, Creole, and English. (09:23) - How different languages can unlock different and powerful narratives.  (11:49) - From the US to Brazil to France: On white supremacy and anti-Blackness across borders. (13:47) - Establishing new paradigms of love and impact through Beloved Community. (19:17) - Using her positionality: Leveraging power through networks and personhood. (24:32) - On commitment to creating change: As a queer Black mother and leader. (27:28) - From blog to book: One Good Question and the answers we seek. Episode resources Connect with Rhonda Broussard through https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonda-broussard-ab20079/ (LinkedIn) and https://twitter.com/broussardrhonda?lang=en (Twitter) Learn more about Rhonda through her https://www.rhondabroussard.com/about (website) Learn more about https://www.wearebeloved.org/ (Beloved Community) Check out Rhonda's blog https://www.rhondabroussard.com/blog/tag/one+good+question (One Good Question)  Pre-order Rhonda's upcoming book https://tbr-books.org/product/one-good-question (One Good Question), inspired by the blog Learn more about the https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/15/books/bell-hooks-dead.html (works and life) of bell hooks Read https://www.amazon.com/killing-rage-Ending-Racism-Book/dp/0805050272 (killing rage: Ending Racism) by bell hooks Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color a https://www.bridgespan.org/ (Bridgespan) supported StudioPod production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided by https://nodalab.com/ (nodalab). 

Dreaming in Color
Urvashi Vaid: The Relay Race to Liberation

Dreaming in Color

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2022 43:57 Transcription Available


Show description Hi! Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for BIPOC social change leaders to candidly share how their life experiences (personal and professional) have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek.  In this episode, we welcome Urvashi Vaid, an Indian-American LGBTQ rights activist, lawyer, and writer.  She talks about her roots as a student activist and organizer, her early days in the ACLU and the National LGTBQ Task Force, and her stints at the Ford and Arcus Foundations. Forged in the fire of the civil rights and anti-Vietnam war era, the motivation Urvashi carried with her to turn the system on its head was nothing short of relentless. Her work in advocacy, policy, and philanthropy has shaped the bedrock that many of our efforts now rest on. This episode was recorded a few months before Urvashi's passing.  Join us in celebrating her life and genius by listening to her reflections on the triumphs and roadblocks that have led to our present and where we can go from here.   Jump straight into: (01:58) - Introducing Urvashi Vaid, President of The Vaid Group (03:22) - What does it mean when the tools of a racist patriarchy are used to examine the fruits of that same patriarchy? Words from Audre Lorde. (05:21) - Stoking the fire:  Her sense of belonging, tenacity, and passion from a young age as a young lesbian child of immigrants.  (11:18) - On her foundation: Urvashi's experience as a student activist and organizer in nontraditional spaces before law school  (18:20) - Entering the philanthropic space: Pragmatism, people, and power (23:24) - On the skills, mentors, and tactics that community engagement created for her professional trajectory (30:52) - A space in formation: The efforts toward creating solidarity in and success for the LGBTQ movement (35:32) - What is to come: The future fights of social movements, words of hope, and the victories to be achieved Episode resources Follow Urvashi's work through https://www.linkedin.com/in/urvashivaid/ (LinkedIn) Learn more about Urvashi's impact through her https://urvashivaid.net/wp/?page_id=2 (homepage) Learn more about https://thevaidgroup.com/team/ (The Vaid Group) Discover https://repository.library.northeastern.edu/collections/neu:cj82pv86s (Records from the Bromfield Street Educational Foundation) (formerly Gay Community News) Read https://www.amazon.com/Sister-Outsider-Speeches-Crossing-Feminist-ebook/dp/B006L7RCEI/ref=sr_1_8?crid=2T68DEE8NZ8BL&keywords=tools+audre+lorde&qid=1642548703&sprefix=tools+audre+lorde%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-8 (Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches), assorted pieces by Audre Lorde Read https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UKLDX8/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 (Home Girls: a Black Feminist Anthology), a compilation by Barbara Smith Listen to the https://open.spotify.com/artist/0vYkHhJ48Bs3jWcvZXvOrP (Music of Patti Smith) on Spotify Learn more about the https://www.thetaskforce.org/ (National LGBTQ Task Force) (formerly National Gay and Lesbian Task Force) Learn more about the https://www.arcusfoundation.org/ (Arcus Foundation) Learn more about the https://www.aclu.org/ (American Civil Liberties Union) (ACLU) Learn more about the https://www.fordfoundation.org/ (Ford Foundation) Thank you for listening to Dreaming in Color a https://www.bridgespan.org/ (Bridgespan) supported https://www.studiopodsf.com/ (StudioPod) production. Nicole Genova is the Show Coordinator and Teresa Buchanan is the Show Producer. The production team from The Bridgespan Group includes Cora Daniels, Michael Borger, Christina Pistorius, and Britt Savage. Additional music and editing provided by https://nodalab.com/ (nodalab).

Career Dreams
What If I Don't Want To Be a Leader?

Career Dreams

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2022 32:33


In this episode, Chase and Michelle reflect on a recent discussion during a leader coaching session that showcased the importance of personal growth and development, regardless of one's career goals. Even if you are well-established in your role, or if Career Dream doesn't include a leadership position, it's important to continually sharpen your skills to perform at your best and be a solid contributor on the team.    Resources: ADVISA article:  https://www.advisausa.com/2020/10/learning-is-earning-3-strategies-for-learning-faster/   Bridgespan template - Creating a 70:20:10 development plan: https://www.bridgespan.org/bridgespan/images/articles/your-next-step-create-a-70-20-10-plan/Your_next_step-Create_a_70-20-10_plan.pdf?ext=.pdf   Like it? Share it! If you're finding value in exploring your Career Dreams through this podcast, please share it with your friends, followers and colleagues! Also, your ratings and reviews help others find the show...so please, let us know what you think! You can share your Career Dreams with us anytime via email: careerdreams@forumcu.com. To learn more about making your Career Dreams come true at FORUM Credit Union, visit our website:  https://www.forumcu.com/careers   Dream on!    

Here at Haas
What Happens After Your MBA? with Robert Strand and Jenelle Harris

Here at Haas

Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2022 57:11


Taking the time to come to Haas and do an MBA can be an incredible opportunity for exploration and introspection, especially for those of us that are interested in sustainability and social impact. But the task of figuring out what you want to do next and how you want to make an impact can feel daunting at times.With that in mind, we'll be delving into the question: “how might we chart our path and discover our purpose” in this episode.We are first accompanied by Professor Robert Strand, also known as “Mr. Nordic.” He is the Executive Director of the Nordic Center and the Center for Responsible Business at Haas and tells us about his career history, what motivated the major pivots in his journey, and finding inspiration in the Nordic region.We then hear from Jenelle Harris, a Haas alum from the class of 2017. Jenelle is a Consulting Manager at Bridgespan, where she leads engagements with social impact organizations, and she is also a career coach here at Berkeley Haas, where she works with mission-driven leaders. We talk with Jenelle about how we can find purpose and meaning in our career search. Episode Quotes:On work-life balance & boundaries (Jenelle)51:56 - When I'm working with folks in the social sector, that's like one of the biggest things we're working through is, what does it look like to do this work and to do so in a way that is nourishing and doesn't leave us wiped out. And how do we both hold like the sacredness and importance of this big, important work we're doing and take care of herself and feel permission to do that too.Some of the best advice Jenelle has received (Jenelle)31:09 - Pay attention to those things that just continuously light you up and spark anger, because that's a clue as to where you are best positioned to be a service.On always looking up to Berkeley (Robert)09:32 - I can't tell you how grateful I am that I have this opportunity to be at the University of California, Berkeley. A place I've revered all my life, even as a little boy growing up in middle of nowhere in Wisconsin, I looked to the University of California, Berkeley, and it is just a beacon educational opportunity for all, for the many people. And I firmly believe that. And that's in the idea of, it's inequality of opportunity that at its core is really, you know, we can call that that's the American dream. And I think that the University of California, Berkeley is an American dream factory. Nordic vs. US ways of thinking about community (Robert)24:37 - Here is where I fear that we in the United States of America have developed a “me, me, me” mindset. Hyper selfish, hyper-focused on myself. We need what I would call in a Nordic context which is still, you have individual responsibility. There is still an importance for me, but they've recognized that if they build systems for the we, each of us “me” will benefit.Show Links:Robert Strand's Faculty ProfileRobert Strand on CourseraRobert Strand on Google ScholarRobert Strand on LinkedInRobert Strand on TwitterJenelle Harris on LinkedinJenelle Harris' WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/here-at-haas/donations

On The Record on WYPR
Cllctivly: A network to grow Black Genius

On The Record on WYPR

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2022 15:45


Media and pop culture … like HBO's current series, “We Own this City,” or from two decades ago, “The Wire” … help perpetuate a violent narrative about Baltimore.  But Jamye Wooten intends to reframe the city's reputation. The  nonprofit he created, called: Cllctivly, works to create and fund a network of people doing good, which tells a different story: “Narrative goes hand in hand with resource mobilization and so narrative is important for us in our work. So we believe that we should be the ones - that folks within our communities should be the ones telling our own stories and making sure we're highlighting the great work happening here in the city.” Links: Cllctivly, Adaptive Village campaign, Bridgespan report about racial inequity in philanthropy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business of Giving
Bridgespan's William Foster and Darren Isom Make the Case to Endow Black-Led Nonprofits

Business of Giving

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2022 16:50


The following is a conversation between William Foster and Darren Isom of the Bridgespan Group, and Denver Frederick, the Host of The Business of Giving. The very first endowed chairs were established by the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius, in Athens all the way back in 176 AD. He created one endowed chair for each of the major schools of philosophy. Today, nonprofit endowments are all too rare, especially for social change organizations led by people of color, whose endowments are nearly four times smaller than those of white-led organizations. This, according to a new Bridgespan Group analysis, and here from the Bridgespan Group to discuss it with us are William Foster and Darren Isom.

Strategy Simplified
S6E1: An Insider Look Into Non-Profit Consulting with The Bridgespan Group

Strategy Simplified

Play Episode Play 40 sec Highlight Listen Later Jan 7, 2022 32:02


To kick off season 6 of the pod, we bring you an exclusive interview with The Bridgespan Group, the #1 non-profit consulting firm in the world. In the episode, we dive into all all things social sector consulting with a Partner from the 300-person firm.What is non-profit consulting? How is it different from "traditional" management consulting? What kinds of projects do Bridgespan  consultants work on? What traits is the firm looking for in candidates? Answers to these questions - and so much more - are inside.Additional LinksList of racial equity funds: LIST Custom edits on your resume: GET EDITS Free resume review: team@managementconsulted.comSponsor an episode or advertise: Management Consulted Media Kit

The Faster Than Normal Podcast: ADD | ADHD | Health
NYU Business Professor Becomes ADHD Children's Book Author- Sivan Hong

The Faster Than Normal Podcast: ADD | ADHD | Health

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2021 15:12


I want to thank you for listening and for subscribing to Faster Than Normal! I also want to tell you that if you're listening to this one, you probably listened to other episodes as well. Because of you all, we are the number one ADHD podcast on the internet!! And if you like us, you can sponsor an episode! Head over to https://rally.io/login/ It is a lot cheaper than you think. You'll reach... about 25k to 30,000 people in an episode and get your name out there, get your brand out there, your company out there, or just say thanks for all the interviews! We've brought you over 230 interviews of CEOs, celebrities, musicians, all kinds of rock stars all around the world from Tony Robbins, Seth Godin, Keith Krach from DocuSign, Danny Meyer, we've had Rachel Cotton, we've had  the band Shinedown, right? Tons and tons of interviews, and we keep bringing in new ones every week so head over to https://rally.io/creator/SHANK/?campaignId=1f99a340-203f-498e-9665-24723a5f8b7a  make it yours, we'd love to have you, thanks so much for listening!  Now to this week's episode, we hope you enjoy it! —— Sivan Hong's career spans over two decades in several industries and professions, including holding esteemed positions as a professor at New York University's Stern School of Business and former partner at The Bridgespan Group. Today, Sivan authors and illustrates the children's book series The Super Fun Day Books, including “Benny J. and the Horrible Halloween”, “George J. and the Miserable Monday” and “Emily D. and the Fearful First Day”.  Her inspiring books focus on neurodiverse children, who overcome their challenges with perseverance and bravery.  Sivan also occupies seats on the Board of several foundations and non-profits. When she's not working, Sivan enjoys being a wife to her lovely husband and a mother to their two wonderful children.  They have a dog and cat and live a quiet and contented life in their home in Connecticut. Today we learn what caused her to make such a drastic career switch and the inspiration behind her newfound love as an Author. Enjoy!  ----------  In this episode Peter and Sivan discuss:   2:10  -  Intro and welcome Sivan Hong!! 3:04  -  So how in the world did you go from being a Professor at NYU Stern and a partner at Bridgespan, to writing children's books for neurodiverse kids?    3:34  -  Why Sivan changed careers 4:00  -  What did Sivan do over COVID? 5:05  -  On the ever-changing definition of neurodiversity. Tell us how your experience has been getting the “ADHD is a gift! “message across to people, which is not always something people want to hear. 6:27  -  On the challenge of undoing ‘social programming'/branding 7:21  -  On Peter's struggle when his book first launched.  8:26  -  Though we're trying, not everyone considers neurodiversity, or even being ‘not the same' truly a gift, not a curse. How do you teach your children about it? 10:03 – On playing into your strengths and using them as superpowers, as opposed to focusing on any negative.   11:05  -  Tell us about your books and more about how they were inspired? (Links to ref's below) 13:28  -  Where can everyone find you, and buy your books?  Benny J. and the Horrible Halloween  George J. and the Miserable Monday  Emily D. and the Fearful First Day. You can get them, [above], on Amazon and also via her website  https://sivanhong.com/  Sivan on the Socials:  sivan_hong_author on INSTA  and @sivanhongauthor on Facebook 14:00  -  THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH BOOKS LIKE THESE! Awesome work & thank you Sivan! 14:12  -  Guys, as always, we are here for you and we love what the responses and the notes that we get from you. So please continue to do that, tell us who you want to hear on the podcast, anything at all, we'd love to know.  Leave us a review on any of the places you get your podcasts, and if you can ever, if you ever need our help, I'm www.petershankman.com and you can reach out anytime via peter@shankman.com or @petershankman on all of the socials. You can also find us at @FasterThanNormal on all of the socials. It really helps when you drop us a review on iTunes and of course, subscribe to the podcast if you haven't already! As you know, the more reviews we get, the more people we can reach. Help us to show the world that ADHD is a gift, not a curse!  14:29  -  Faster Than Normal Podcast info & credits TRANSCRIPT:  — Hi guys. My name is Peter Shankman. I'm the host of Faster Than Normal.  I want to thank you for listening, and I also want to tell you that if you've listened to this one, you probably listened to other episodes as well of Faster Than Normal.  We are the number one ADHD podcast on the internet, and if you like us, you can sponsor an episode.  Head over to shank.mn/sponsor  - that's shank.mn/sponsor. It is alot cheaper than you think. You'll reach... God about 25….30,000 people in an episode and get your name out there, get your brand out there, your company out there, or just say, thanks for all the interviews we brought you over 230 interviews of CEOs, celebrities, musicians, all kinds of rock stars all around the world from we've had... God, who have we had...we've had Tony Robbins, Seth Goden, Keith Krach from DocuSign, we've had Rachel Cotton, we've had  the band Shinedown, right? Tons and tons of interviews, and we keep bringing in new ones every week, so head over to shank.mn/sponsor  grab an episode, make it yours, we'd love to have you, thanks for listening.  Here's this week's episode, hope you enjoy it. — Hey everyone, Peter Shankman here, and this is another episode of Faster Than Normal, but you know that, ‘cause you subscribed and you're listening, and what else would you expect?  Anyway, glad to have you here, great to be coming to you today, again from New York City in a rainy New York City, I don't think it's ever going to be sunny again. But either way, it is a lovely day when you're up and awake and you know, a little rain into every life, little rain must fall, so good to be here. We have a guest today who somehow managed to go from being a Professor at https://www.stern.nyu.edu/... to author and illustrator of children's books for neuro-diverse children.  So we're going to talk to Sivan Hong, and we're going to figure out how one goes from being a professor at NYU and a former partner at the https://www.bridgespan.org/?gclid=CjwKCAjwiLGGBhAqEiwAgq3q_tuyxlwvwXJvl6cltkhHAbTye-zgYPQfad_79-Fp8jqPIQ6QI4y0nxoCbDwQAvD_BwE to authoring and illustrating children's books, which is pretty cool.  She also sits on several non-profits and does a bunch of stuff and lives in Connecticut and says... says she has a lovely husband and is a Mother to two wonderful children. They have a dog and a cat and they live a quiet and contented life, in Connecticut. How…. uh, we'll talk later about how it's possible to be content in Connecticut, cause I've never, I don't understand that, but either way, Sivan, welcome to Faster Than Normal.   Thank you so much for having me Peter.  So, okay, so, you know, just living your life, professor at https://www.stern.nyu.edu/ the partner at https://www.bridgespan.org/…. and one day you just wake up said, “Hey, you know, I'm bored, I'm gonna start doing children's books for neuro-diverse kids, sort of exactly how it happened?” Exactly how {laughter} exactly how it happened. Um, no. I had this fast track career. And then I became a Mother of a kid who was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, nd I realized that I couldn't have this fast-track  career and give him all the attention that I needed to give him. And then I had another kid with ADHD and so I set up, OK, I did the career thing. I was a professor, I was a partner. I did all of this other stuff, right now I'm going to focus a lot of my attention on being a Mom, um, which is very kind of 1950's of me, but I'm totally at peace with that.  And over COVID instead of making sourdough bread and, um, and doing all those other things that people were doing, mm, my undiagnosed ADHD came out and I wrote three children's books about neuro diversity. And so my hyper-focus was on that, because I realized as my kids are growing up and they're still young, they're seven and nine, there weren't a lot of books out there that highlighted how cool it was to be neurodiverse and talked about characters with neuro-diversity and showed how successful they were in the problems that they faced.  And I felt like this was something that I needed to do. I am a big proponent of the fact that neuro-diversity is a gift, right? Like my kids refer to themselves as X-Men and that's what, um, I wanted to share. So that's how I went from professor to children's book author.  I love that X-Men, that's very very cool.  Tell me about, you know, it's interesting, so the concept of neuro-diversity it is changing, right, and podcasts like this and, and books like yours, things like that, we're starting to figure out, sort of the fact that it's not so much a diagnosis, right? There's….there's a gift to it, um, if you understand how to use it.  What has been your experience, um, trying to get that message across, because it is a difficult message sometimes that people don't necessarily wanna hear.   So it's interesting. I think you look at it from a couple of different directions. So in beautiful Westport, Connecticut, where I live, there is a separate PTA for special education parents. And you have a group of parents in this town who say, you know what, we're going to embrace the differences in our kids and we are going to do everything we can to advocate for them and to create this community where, when a parent get a diagnosis for their kid and it can be super isolating and really, really scary… this group of parents is there to kind of show them the way to be like, no, you know, there's a path to move forward and it's such a kind of cross to bear. What struck me as really interesting, and I'm fairly new to social media, which is embarrassing, but true. Um, when I started to post a lot about being, um, proud proud of your neuro-diversity and showing it as a gift, there were some people who really took offense to it.  Oh yeah, I believe you. There were people who were, you know, who are like, no, it's a disability or no, it has to be this deficit, and the world needs to view us as people with a deficit. And, uh, I'm so taken aback by that way of thinking, right? When you step back and you think about the incredible geniuses that we have in this world today, and then frankly, that we've had in the past, we could not be where we are as a society today without neuro-diversity. No question about it… and it's so true what you say though... because, you know, for whatever reason, some people are stuck in this opinion that, oh my God, it's a curse, and you know, it's a negative diagnosis and it, it goes against, uh, the good and, and, and, and you're broken. I remember when Faster Than Normal came out, the book... when the book came out... actually wasn't allowed to post, I got banned from the ADHD https://www.reddit.com/subreddits/... on https://www.reddit.com/... because they don't look at it as a gift, and they're like, oh, well, you know, he, he thinks that it's positive and it's really not. And, and, and we don't want to, have this conversation. I'm like, you guys, you're being so obtuse, it's incredible.  Well, and it's a huge disservice to our kids, right? Like I don't want my kids walking around feeling like there's something wrong with them, in fact, my seven-year-old said the other day, he's like, “Mom, I'm not telling a lot of people that I have ADHD because I don't want to brag.” And I'm like…. Ah, I love it! …., that is the right attitude. That is what we want our kids to feel, right. Because that's the only way they are going to capitalize on the gifts they have.  If they walk around feeling terrible about themselves, because they're different, and that their brain is wired differently, they're never going to succeed. They're never going to be able to achieve all the things that they should be able to achieve.  That is awesome. I love that. I don't want to tell people, cause I don't want to brag.  That's wonderful. Have there been…. talk about the negatives. Um, cause I'm, I'm assuming it hasn't been, uh, uh, you know,,,, perfect the entire time. So what is your, what is your kid has had to learn and adapt to?  It's not perfect, because any elementary school kid, frankly, middle school and high school kids, they want to be the same, right?  Like... different isn't a good thing, and, um, my kids are bi-racial, so they look different to begin with, um, and then I'm adding this additional layer of complexity around their identity, um, and, and that causes problems right?  In the same way that my nine-year-old has said to me, I wish I was white. There have been times where he said, I wish I was normal, right?  And, and he's like, you know, his autism impedes his ability to be the kind of athlete that he wants to be, you know, like he dreams about being in the NBA and he'll say things like, I think my autism is going to prevent me from being in the NBA. And in my mind, I'm like, it's pretty much because you're half Jewish that's going to prevent you from being in the NBA… {laughter}  ..., but in that kind of mentality is, is the heart breaking part. But it's our job as parents. It's our job as a community, it's a job as society to turn it around and I'm like, you know, you may not be an NBA player, but one day you have the opportunity to own a team and that's way cooler. So like how do you turn it around and make it a strength even when they have those heartbreaking moments? Yeah, no question about it. And you know, it's, it's, it's interesting because the, um, I mean, sports is never my thing either, uh, uh, but you know, I discovered acting right and then discovered singing, other things that I love to do. I'm being on stage. I mean, I get paid now to speak in front of thousands of people, and I'm amazed that every single time I do it, that, you know, that it works so well and I enjoy it so much, but it's, it's exactly that it's, it's playing into it, the strengths, right?  And not looking at the negatives, but focusing on playing into the strengths.   Right, and the same way that there are differences across the board in people, you never want to focus on the negative side of those differences.  You recognize that it's there, but that's not what the focus is supposed to be on. The focus is supposed to be on, what do we do to succeed, right?  And if that means that you have to wear headphones because you have a sensory issue and loud noises is a problem, so you wear headphones, but then you move on and you succeed right? That's what we need to be focusing on. No question about it. Tell us about the books.    So, um, the two that are published already, one is called, um, https://www.amazon.com/Benny-Horrible-Halloween-Sivan-Hong/dp/B08W7DWJ8Z and it's a true story of, my now... nine year old being terrified of being in the Halloween parade in kindergarten., and, um, the true story is, is that he didn't actually go..  Like it, it felt way too overwhelming for him to participate in something like that and so the following year with the help of his special education teacher, we came up with a plan and he found a way to do it, and now he loves Halloween. And so it's, it's a book about kind of overcoming your challenges, and what I love about it, is that you do see a character in this book wearing headphones, right?  I have yet to find a children's book with that kind of illustration and it totally normalized the difference. And then the second book, um, is really kind of the story of my seven year old with ADHD who every Monday, hates school right?   And has this incredible school anxiety, because as we know, it can be overwhelming. It can be hard, everything could possibly change and the things that he does in order to overcome and turn those Mondays around to being a good day. And then the book that's coming out this summer, it's called https://www.amazon.com/Emily-Fearful-First-Super-Books-ebook/dp/B094S9RSJ3/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=emily+d+and+the+fearful+first+day&qid=1624048339&s=books&sr=1-1 and that one's about, you know, starting a new class and, and that character also is neuro-diverse. And now I have to kind of slow down writing and illustrating these books because my publicist is like, no, no, no, no, you can't release a book every 3 months, but, but I, for me, I'm in introvert and I meant, um, I'm fairly positive that I have dyslexia and ADHD and actually, today, I'm going for my neuro psych evaluation because my kids were like, we did it, you should do it, Mom…. … there you go…. and I was like, yup, I'm all in. I'm all in. Um, but it's really easy to step back and just hyper-focus on this. Um, but I realized that in order to be a, uh, an author that you have to take some time to market your books and, and talk about them and do podcasts like this, which are really, um, cool.  So that's where my focus is on right now.  Awesome. I love it. So let's, uh, tell me, then tell us the name of the books again and where can people find them,,, I know one is https://www.amazon.com/Benny-Horrible-Halloween-Sivan-Hong/dp/B08W7DWJ8Z and then https://www.amazon.com/Emily-Fearful-First-Super-Books-ebook/dp/B094S9RSJ3/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=emily+d+and+the+fearful+first+day&qid=1624048339&s=books&sr=1 Right, and you can get them on Amazon and you can get them on my website at https://sivanhong.com/ and then, um, you can follow me on social media at https://www.instagram.com/sivan_hong_author/  um, on Instagram and then on Facebook as well.  Awesome, Sivan Hong, thank you for taking the time to be on Faster Than Normal Sivan, I really appreciate you're…. you're you're doing great stuff that the, there are not enough books out there that explain to kids that they are not broken, that they're gifted, and so I love the fact that you're doing that and you're, you're filling it very, very needed uh, niche.  Thank you so much for having me, Peter, this was a blast. By all means.  Guys as always, you're listening to Faster Than Normal.  If you like what you hear, drop us a review note, uh, leave us a note, drop me a note, let me know you're out there. It gets lonely here in my apartment sometimes, so always happy to hear from everyone, but that being said, thank you for listening, we'll see you again soon.  —— Credits: You've been listening to the Faster Than Normal podcast. We're available on iTunes, Stitcher and Google play and of course at www.FasterThanNormal.com I'm your host, Peter Shankman and you can find me at petershankman.com and @petershankman on all of the socials. If you like what you've heard, why not head over to your favorite podcast platform of choice and leave us a review, come more people who leave positive reviews, the more the podcast has shown, and the more people we can help understand that ADHD is a gift, not a curse. Opening and closing themes were composed and produced by Steven Byrom who also produces this podcast, and the opening introduction was recorded by Bernie Wagenblast. Thank you so much for listening. We'll see you next week. 

Philanthropy in Phocus
Come to the Table with RWCF

Philanthropy in Phocus

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2021 61:55


Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation is an advocacy and action nonprofit created by and for restaurant workers. RWCF was founded in 2018 to advocate for – and raise funds for other nonprofits working toward – gender equity, racial justice, fair wages, and healthy work environments in the restaurant industry. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, RWCF's additional focus is on supporting workers in crisis and small business owners with the Restaurant Workers COVID19 Crisis Relief Fund.Michael Hamill Remaley is Board Vice President and Fundraising Committee Chair or Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation. For the first three years of its growth, Michael Hamill Remaley was board Treasurer and the Lead Consultant to Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation. As an independent consultant to nonprofit and philanthropic organizations with his firm Hamill Remaley, he works with a client roster that includes the New York Community Trust, Bridgespan, J.M. Kaplan Fund, Public Agenda, the Support Center for Nonprofits and Inside Philanthropy.Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc or watch the Facebook Livestream by clicking here.Show Notes‍Segment 1The first segment opens with an introduction of the show and this episode's guest, Michael Hamill Remaley, Vice president and fundraising committee chair of restaurant workers community foundation. Tommy then gives a history of how he met today's guest and the networking group TNG. Through multiple networking opportunities, Tommy met Michael and ultimately led to appearing on today's episode. Michael and Tommy give a history of his organization and their impact on the restaurant and non profit industry. Michael gives a semi detailed story about his beginning days working in philanthropy and nonprofits. For Michael, these early days were crucial for establishing his love for helping others and forming his mentality of leaving the world a better place than you found it.Segment 2The second segment opens with Tommy discussing the main topic of the episode which is Michael's Restaurant Workers Community Foundation. In 2018 Michael started RWCF as an action nonprofit. Michael and his foundation raise and distribute funds through grants for workers in the labor sector. He believes that in 2018 his foundation became the first to focus specifically on issues facing these labor workers and the organizations that support them. Michael and Tommy share their experiences over some of the most damaging factors facing the restaurant industry and their workers. For Michael and his husband, the results of the 2016 election was proof to them that either restaurant workers were unaware of the policies impacting their lives or they didn't care. Either way, this was enough motivation for Michael and his husband John to start RWCF as a way to help these workers.Segment 3The next segment opens with Michael discussing RWCF program goals. Michael hopes to provide the services needed to help restaurant workers with wage fairness, gender equity, racial justice, support for the immigrant community, mental health, and substance abuse. Michael explains that the best way to reach these goals is through grant making, community organization, and impact investing. In the first fiscal year of the organization, Michael saw growth he wasn't expecting and was able to raise $40,000 in 2019. He then distributed $13,000 over 11 different companies. This was working well for Michael, even growing a board of 20 people. Michael explains that this helped survive the incoming year. In one notable way. The board signed off on hiring a part time employee to handle all of their social media. Michael explains this was insanely helpful due to the fact that he and his husband were doing most of the work for the foundation all through 2020. What RWCF needed, according to Michael, in this time was a more diverse leadership across their committees. Michael got that diverse leadership he was looking for and was able to start other projects in the foundation to get even more people help. This was of course 2020 so the one thing on their mind, like everyone else's, was the global pandemic. More relief funds were set up to help workers and restaurants with being able to survive the lockdown in New York, not only as business but in general. Michael and his team raised over 8 million dollars. Yes, 8 million dollars, to be distributed to workers and businesses.‍Segment 4The final segment opens with a reintroduction of the show and a reminder that yes, what you before was right. 8 million dollars. Michael gives a hopeful yet complex vision of the future for his foundation. Michael explains that he and his team have distributed funds to over 40 companies working with COVID relief and how he plans to network his foundation and those nonprofits to work together because they all have similar goals. Michael explains that the Restaurant Workers Community Foundation will continue the work they have been doing, but actively looking for new ways to help the people in the restaurant industry. This means informing the roughly 15 million restaurant workers in the United states of their existence and their services.

Millennial Musings with Anurag
18.0: On protests, addressing and combatting systems of oppression, and growing up black in America with Willie Thompson and Justin Bryant

Millennial Musings with Anurag

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2020 109:01


The protests that have broken out in the United States following the brutal murder of George Floyd in Minnesota by a white police officer has led to a lot of uncomfortable, yet overdue conversations about race relations, police brutality, and systems of oppression, amongst others. On this episode, Anurag chats with two young black leaders, Willie Thompson and Justin Bryant to unpack some of these conversations that are finally happening now. They discuss what it was like to grow up black in America, how as young people, we can work to address and combat systems of oppression, and how they took initiative to bring about tangible change in a community that they are active members of - the Schwarzman Scholars Program. Willie J. Thompson grew up in Griffin, GA and earned his B.A. in Economics with a minor in Chinese Studies from Morehouse College. After graduating summa cum laude / Phi Beta Kappa from Morehouse, Willie worked as an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) in Taichung, Taiwan with the Fulbright Program. Upon finishing his service as an ETA, Willie worked as an Associate Consultant for The Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit consulting firm that works with non-profits and philanthropists to address society's most pressing needs and challenges. Willie spent a year as a member of the Schwarzman Scholars Program, where he earned a Master’s in Global Affairs from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Willie returned to Bridgespan, where he currently works on impact investing, philanthropic prizes, and workforce development as an Associate Consultant. He is also an avid jazz fan, having played drums for the Morehouse College Jazz Band all four years of his college career. Connect with Willie on LinkedIn. Justin is a second-year J.D. candidate at Stanford Law School. He has a B.A. in Public Policy from Duke University, an MSc in Global Affairs from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, where he was a Schwarzman Scholar, and an LL.M in European and International Business Law from the University of Vienna School of Law. Justin focuses on the intersection of law and technology and seeks to create ecosystems in which individuals can experience the benefits of technology without suffering harm. He advanced this mission during his time at ALT Advisory in Johannesburg, where he built Data Protection Africa. Justin was a cyberlaw fellow at the law firm Orrick, Herrington, and Sutcliffe in Menlo Park, California, and he previously worked at Microsoft in Beijing and San Francisco on projects concerning cybersecurity, government relations, and civic uses of technology. He will be working at the ACLU’s Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project in New York this summer. Connect with Justin on LinkedIn. Follow Anurag on: Instagram: @anuragrc and @millennialmusings_podcast Cover Art obtained from Unsplash: Photo by James Eades on Unsplash Title music Ikson-Alive is obtained from the artist's website, and used with due credit given. Support Ikson's music on https://soundcloud.com/ikson

Shake the Cosmos - Empower your Vision
Roman Vann Jackson on Shake The Cosmos

Shake the Cosmos - Empower your Vision

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2020 24:05


The demand for non-profit services has increased dramatically because of COVID-19. Are you a leader at a non-profit who is finding yourself trying to do MORE with LESS staff? What are 3 key things you can do to overcome and pivot in these times? I discuss these things with my friend and Bowdoin College alumnus, Roman Jackson, who is a Program Offer responsible for providing grants to nonprofit organizations. He offers what kinds of things can non-profit leaders do to in the current COVID-19 environment.Roman Vann Jackson is a Program Officer. He acts as an agent for his employer to provide grants to nonprofit organizations on behalf of client foundations. He is a generalist, which means that he provides funding to support different causes such as animal welfare, economic development, housing and homelessness, education, youth development, etc. His two biggest portfolios are Arts and Culture and workforce development where he developed programming and participated on many panels regarding build the capacity of the field and ushered $10s of millions of dollars in grants to support organizational development to nonprofits in New York City and across the country.His passion for the nonprofit field comes from his experience having been served by nonprofit organizations throughout his life, which has helped him to become the person he is today. Coming from a disadvantaged background the Harlem Children’s Zone was instrumental in helping him, and lots of others, to achieve academic and career success. There are many others across the county just like him who suffer from societal barriers that are helped by nonprofits. According to Roman, Nonprofits were created to help individuals who are oppressed, mistreated and experience barrier to attaining a fulfilled life due to their ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, social-economic status, education level, physical and mental ability and any other condition that prevents them from attaining the basic American foundation of life, liberty and the pursuit of property and happiness.To get in touch with Roman: LinkedInTwitter: Vann_JacksonInstagram: Vann_JacksonBlogSome resources for non-profit’s shared by Roman with us are below:Blue Avocado :Blue Avocado is an online magazine fueled by a monthly newsletter designed to provide practical, tactical tips and tools to nonprofit leaders. A small but mighty team of committed social sector leaders produces the publication, enlisting content from a wide range of practitioners, funders, and experts.BoardSource BoardSource, formerly the National Center for Nonprofit Boards, is an American nonprofit organization founded in 1988. Its mission is "to inspire and support excellence in nonprofit governance and board and staff leadership."BridgeSpanThe Bridgespan Group is a U.S. nonprofit organization in Boston, Massachusetts that provides management consulting to nonprofits and philanthropists. In addition to consulting, Bridgespan makes case studies freely available on its website and publications.CompassPointCompassPoint helps leaders, nonprofit organizations, and movements committed to social justice realize their full power.National Council of NonprofitsThe National Council of Nonprofits is a trusted resource and advocate for America's charitable nonprofitsNonprofit Finance FundNFF promotes the success of nonprofits by providing capital, strategic consulting, and using their knowledge and influence to transform the funding and financing landscape.Great List of Additional Resources 

Successful Nonprofits Podcast
Your nonprofit’s big bettable initiative with Sridhar Prasad

Successful Nonprofits Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2020 34:12


“Big bets give organizations the chance to think about what it looks like to go from serving to solving.” That is always the goal isn’t it? As much as smaller contributions and fundraising campaigns appreciated and valued, the big donations we receive from philanthropists can not only determine but also expand our organization's achievements. Sridhar Prasad, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, realized this long before he began researching “Big Bets” in philanthropy. Listen in to the show to learn how to better poise your nonprofit to become “big bettable”. 

Add Passion and Stir
When Good Is Not Good Enough: Scaling Social Impact

Add Passion and Stir

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2019 45:50


How do you help social entrepreneurs spread their ideas? Bridgespan Group co-founder and managing partner Jeff Bradach and Bambara Kitchen & Bar executive chef David Bazirgan join host Billy Shore to talk about impact investing and helping non-profits scale to create transformative change. “So much of scaling is about how you create that feeling that has people acting on their own in ways that are aligned and consistent with the vision [that] makes a difference in the world,” explains Bradach. Bazirgan practices a similar philosophy in his kitchen. “I’ve always tried to create a good culture of teamwork, respect and keeping an open dialogue. Lead by example, [practice] good communication, and get buy-in,” he advises. Bradach cautions that creating large-scale change isn’t as simple as just replicating good ideas. “There’s other virtues of scale, but I do think there’s an underappreciation of that unique, radically local experience that is deeply embedded in community,” he observes. Bazirgan is a big advocate for community nonprofits, and is preparing to ride in his first ChefsCycle for No Kid Hungry event. “I’ve always been one to just say ‘yes’ to everything. We have such an opportunity to give back and provide and support,” he says. Join us for this conversation that explores the dynamics of social change and the true potential of nonprofits to make transformative change.

Leadership Foundations: City As Playground
A 40 Year Legacy: Cultivating Global Impact- Episode 44

Leadership Foundations: City As Playground

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2018 56:13


In this episode, Dave and Rick are joined by Leslie MacKrell, Partner at The Bridgespan Group. Together they discuss the intensive Bridgespan project and how it better positioned LF to cultivate and drive global impact. Listen here and send in any questions you would like answered to info@leadershipfoundations.org.    

The Talented Learning Show
Podcast 10: The New Face of Nonprofit Leadership Development – With Meera Chary of Bridgespan

The Talented Learning Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2018 29:20


How can consulting firms leverage innovative learning technologies to make their services and expertise more widely available? And how is this changing the face of nonprofit leadership development? Listen to The Talented Learning Show!

Community Voice
Keeping the Flame Alive: Zarvana's Quest to End Burn Out

Community Voice

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2018 38:21


What is productivity and how important is it? In this episode, Matt Plummer explains how productivity is the most important component of a sustainable life. Matt is the founder of Zarvana, a company that delivers digital performance enhancement programs to help individuals and employees maximize output in less time at a higher quality. A social entrepreneur with roots in strategy and management consulting for 6 years at the prestigious nonprofit consulting company Bridgespan, and an experienced manager passionate about human development, Matt is building a company that gives us back our most valuable resource: time. In this episode, Matt shares his personal experience and tells the story of Zarvana, leading to the development of a four-part model which combines Interactive Lessons, Daily Tracking, Peer groups, and One-on-One coaching. He also opens up about why he avoided Silicon Valley or New York City for his start-up, choosing a lesser-known town instead.

The Brink of Impact
S2 Episode 02: Anum Qadir

The Brink of Impact

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2017 31:39


Our guest this week is Anum Qadir from Bridgespan, plus we chat about what to wear to work and share career-related resources.

Add Passion and Stir
A Fire Has Been Lit: Activating for Social Justice

Add Passion and Stir

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2017 28:35


Americans everywhere are asking whether values like equality and upward mobility are being advanced or set back by President Trump’s proposed budget cuts. In this time of heated debate, Add Passion and Stir guests Chef Matt Jennings of Townsman in Boston and William Foster of The Bridgespan Group share their expertise on how we can activate the sense of urgency many of us feel right now. These two leaders chat with Share Our Strength founder and CEO Billy Shore about how they and others are leading change right now during this ‘scary time’ for social justice. Chef Matt notes that “A fire has been lit… and it’s burning hotter and brighter than ever before,” and William believes that “threats and challenges can bring out greatness.” Chef Matt describes the work he is doing connecting with his restaurant guests, the broader community, and his own employees to ensure everyone has access to food and a fair standard of living. William outlines how he is helping both philanthropists and social justice nonprofits see the opportunities to drive transformative change in this unsettled time. Be inspired by how these industries are rallying to make it better.

Nobel Laureates (Video)
Education Changemakers: Nobel Laureate James Heckman and Venture Capitalist J.B. Pritzker

Nobel Laureates (Video)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2016 58:12


Economist and Nobel Laureate James Heckman presents research showing the value of early childhood education as he and entrepreneur/philanthropist J.B. Pritzker urge support for birth-to-age-5 programs as keys to developing strong regional and national economies. Series: "STEAM plus MORE" [Public Affairs] [Education] [Show ID: 30584]

Nobel Laureates (Audio)
Education Changemakers: Nobel Laureate James Heckman and Venture Capitalist J.B. Pritzker

Nobel Laureates (Audio)

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2016 58:12


Economist and Nobel Laureate James Heckman presents research showing the value of early childhood education as he and entrepreneur/philanthropist J.B. Pritzker urge support for birth-to-age-5 programs as keys to developing strong regional and national economies. Series: "STEAM plus MORE" [Public Affairs] [Education] [Show ID: 30584]

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast
Responsible and Successful Collaboration

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2014 52:52


“The number one rule: Don’t collaborate unless you have to.” Willa Seldon, a consultant at Bridgespan, got some laughs at the 2013 Nonprofit Management Institute, but gives some pointers on successful collaboration and how to productively evaluate common goals. To support her viewpoints, she engages Stephanie Couch and Carolyn Nelson, two experienced collaborators who provide insights on their own collaborative work with communities. Nelson and Couch explain how the personal connections that community members offer lead to great outcomes. The panel highlights how creating a shared culture can bypass disagreements and cultural differences to generate results. Willa Seldon has extensive experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit worlds. After seven years of being a director at AirTouch Communications, a multi-billion dollar wireless communications company, Seldon co-founded Milepost, a venture capital firm investing in women entrepreneurs. Seldon has since held top positions in the nonprofit sector as Executive Director of Tides Center and CEO of the Glide Foundation. She currently shares her multi-sector expertise as a consultant at The Bridgespan Group. https://ssir.org/podcasts/entry/responsible_and_successful_collaboration

Bridgespan Group Audio Summaries
Tom Tierney Discusses Delivering on the Promise of Nonprofits

Bridgespan Group Audio Summaries

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2014 11:43


Nonprofit organizations should explore the answers to a handful of key questions to develop pragmatic, specific plans of action to increase their impact. In this Harvard Business Review article, Bridgespan authors Jeff Bradach, Nan Stone, and Tom Tierney explore how these questions provided a framework to help the Harlem Children’s Zone meet its goals.

Bridgespan Group Audio Summaries
From Data to Results in Preventing Dropouts in the Portland Public Schools

Bridgespan Group Audio Summaries

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2013 12:19


Many school district leaders, particularly those in urban areas, struggle to reduce dropout rates, but find themselves overwhelmed by the dimensions of the problem. There are, however, a few districts making notable progress towards reducing the number of dropouts and ensuring that students earn high school diplomas in a timely manner.One of these is the Portland, Oregon, Public Schools (PPS). In the course of a single calendar year (2007-2008) PPS began to have a positive impact in addressing its dropout problem. Bridgespan partner Daniel Stid interviews Leslie Rennie-Hill, former Chief of the PPS Office of High Schools, and Carole Smith, current Superintendent of the Portland Public Schools to find out more.

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast
Ending the Nonprofit Starvation Cycle

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2010 46:53


It is not news that nonprofit organizations with robust infrastructure — including sturdy information technology and financial systems, skills training, fundraising processes, and other essential overhead — are more likely to succeed than those without. Yet most nonprofits do not spend enough money on capacity building and systems. Ann Goggins Gregory and Don Howard of the nonprofit management consultancy The Bridgespan Group, look at the reasons so many nonprofits find themselves in a perpetual starvation cycle. The two consultants reveal what nonprofits and funders can do to break out of the cycle, so that overhead problems do not thwart organizations from achieving success in the pursuit of their missions and goals. They spoke at the Nonprofit Management Institute convened by the Stanford Social Innovation Review. Ann Goggins Gregory is the director of knowledge management at The Bridgespan Group and a former consultant in Bridgespan’s strategy area. In her consulting work, her clients included education and youth development organizations as well as foundations. Don Howard is a partner at The Bridgespan Group, where he leads the San Francisco office. His clients have included foundations and nonprofits working to alleviate poverty, end homelessness, revitalize neighborhoods, end inequities in education, and improve the environment. https://ssir.org/podcasts/entry/ending_the_nonprofit_starvation_cycle

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast
Scaling Impact in Education

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2010 73:13


It has been an unprecedented time for education entrepreneurs, with the federal government increasing funding available to innovative nonprofits, engaging social innovators in the development of policy, and highlighting the work of entrepreneurs as exemplars to be followed. In this panel discussion at the NewSchools Summit 2010 conference, Bridgespan Group partner Susan Colby discusses the state of education reform. Education entrepreneurs follow by sharing how innovative ideas, models, and policies may be focused and scaled so that more children can get the education they deserve. They also consider what the broader results of this change will look like a decade from now, and what path will the movement need to take to spark true systemic change in public education. Susan Colby is a founding partner of Bridgespan Group’s San Francisco office, where she leads the organization’s work in K-12 education and foundation strategy. She joined Bridgespan from Pharmacia (previously Monsanto), where she served as co-president of the sustainable development sector. Prior to Monsanto, Susan spent 10 years at McKinsey & Company, where she co-founded and co-led the North American environment practice. Stig Leschly is the founder and managing partner of the Newark Charter School Fund, an operating foundation financed by national philanthropies to support public school reform in Newark, NJ. Formerly, he was a lecturer at Harvard Business School, where his research and teaching covered entrepreneurship and education reform. From 1997 to 2000, Leschly was the CEO and founder of Exchange.com, an early competitor to eBay.com, which was acquired by Amazon.com in 1999. Stig Leschly is the founder and managing partner of the Newark Charter School Fund, an operating foundation financed by national philanthropies to support public school reform in Newark, NJ. Formerly, he was a lecturer at Harvard Business School, where his research and teaching covered entrepreneurship and education reform. From 1997 to 2000, Leschly was the CEO and founder of Exchange.com, an early competitor to eBay.com, which was acquired by Amazon.com in 1999. Larry Berger is CEO and co-founder of Wireless Generation, a company that helps PreK-12 educators to teach smarter through the sensitive and innovative application of technology in the classroom. Under his leadership, the company has developed software for mobile devices that makes formative assessment instructionally useful to teachers, “next generation” curriculum customized throughout the school year to students’ needs, and large-scale data systems that centralize student information and integrate knowledge management tools to spur teacher collaborations. Berger was a Rhodes Scholar and a White House Fellow working on educational technology at NASA. Alexandra (Alex) Bernadotte is the founder and CEO of Beyond 12 (formerly CollegeSUCCESS), a national technology-based services organization whose mission is to increase the number of first generation, underrepresented and low-income students who graduate from our nation’s colleges and universities. In January of 2009, she was hired by NewSchools Venture Fund as an entrepreneur in residence to guide the development and business planning for a new venture focused on helping underserved students graduate from college. Bernadotte has more than 14 years of executive management and strategic development experience in both the nonprofit and private sectors. Eva Moskowitz is CEO of Success Charter Network. In August 2006, she founded Harlem Success Academy, hailed by NYC Schools Chancellor Joel Klein as “one of the best charter schools in the country,” and cited by NYC Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg for its “amazing performance.” Moskowitz opened three more Harlem charter schools in August 2008. She is a former New York City Council member and chair of the Council’s Education Committee. Jon Schnur is CEO and co-founder of New Leaders for New Schools, a national nonprofit organization focused on improving learning and school leadership. From September 2008 to June 2009, Schnur served as an advisor to Barack Obama’s Presidential campaign, a member of the presidential transition team, and a senior advisor to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Before founding New Leaders, he was a special assistant to Secretary of Education Richard Riley, President Clinton’s White House associate director for educational policy, and senior advisor on education to Vice President Gore. https://ssir.org/podcasts/entry/scaling_impact_in_education

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast
Susan Colby - Nonprofit Management Approaches at Bridgespan

Stanford Social Innovation Review Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2008 48:03


In nonprofit management, implementing organizational changes can be a huge challenge. In this audio lecture, Susan Colby shares the Bridgespan approach to nonprofit strategy by taking the example of one of her clients, the Harlem Children's Zone. Speaking at the 2006 Nonprofit Management Institute at Stanford, she walks her audience of high-level nonprofit executives through a rather challenging process to tactfully institute radical organizational changes. https://ssir.org/podcasts/entry/susan_colby_-_nonprofit_management_approaches_at_bridgespan