Podcasts about Microfinance

What makes a nuclear physicist leave science to transform millions of lives? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Kalpana Sankar shares her extraordinary journey—from working in cutting-edge research to building Hand in Hand India, an organization that has uplifted millions of women through microfinance, education, and entrepreneurship.She dives into the game-changing five-pillar approach that tackles poverty at its roots and explains why financial independence is the ultimate tool for empowerment. Dr. Sankar also reflects on what inspired her to write her autobiography, The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women—offering a deeply personal look at her struggles, breakthroughs, and vision for the future.From grassroots innovation to international expansion, this episode is filled with insights, inspiration, and a powerful call to action for anyone who wants to drive meaningful change.Chapters00:00 Highlights 01:08 Introduction to Dr. Kalpana Sankar03:09 The Genesis of Hand in Hand05:05 Tackling Multi-Dimensional Poverty07:04 The Five Pillars of Hand in Hand16:01 Creative Institution Building18:30 Scaling the Model Globally21:24 The Role of Microfinance in Empowerment23:39 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth28:08 Challenges in International Expansion30:07 The Call to Action in The Scientist Entrepreneur31:02 Future Aspirations and ProjectsConnect with UsMohua Chinappa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohua-chinappa/The Mohua Show: https://www.themohuashow.com/Connect with the GuestKalpana Sankar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkalpanasankar/ Hand in Hand Foundation: https://www.instagram.com/hihindia/ Follow UsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/themohuashow/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/litlounge_pod/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMohuaShowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themohuashow/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themohuashowFor any other queries EMAILhello@themohuashow.comDisclaimerThe views expressed by our guests are their own. We do not endorse and are not responsible for any views expressed by our guests on our podcast and its associated platforms.#TheMohuaShow #MohuaChinappa #Storytelling #WomenEmpowerment #PovertyAlleviation #SocialImpact #SocialWork #Education #Microfinance #Podcast #NGO #MicrocreditThanks for Listening!

In this special episode of The KAJ Masterclass LIVE, created for Podcasthon 2025, we spotlight the transformative power of microfinance organizations. Discover how small loans and financial services can unlock opportunities for self-employment, drive financial independence, and uplift communities worldwide. Listen in to learn about the impact of microfinance, the challenges faced, and the path ahead. Together, let's explore how small contributions can lead to big changes.==========================================

In this episode Rex chats with Sheel Mohnot from Better Tomorrow Ventures. Sheel shares his journey of living on a dollar a day in India, founding and selling multiple companies (including one sparked by a chance meeting on a train), and even hosting nine weddings—one of them sponsored by Taco Bell in the metaverse. They dive into Sheel's evolving personal finance stack, from traditional banks to Robinhood's gold credit card, and discuss why consumer fintech is suddenly exciting again. Sheel also unpacks how AI-driven solutions are transforming bookkeeping, mortgage operations, and more. From vertical SaaS insights to San Francisco's culture of radical experimentation, this conversation is a whirlwind tour of where fintech is headed.00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:00 - BTV Office & Life Above Work00:02:46 - Microfinance & Typhoid Stories00:04:01 - Half-Billion Domain Startup00:05:13 - Nine Weddings & Taco Bell00:06:28 - Building a Modern Finance Stack00:08:14 - Credit Cards & Margin Lending00:10:24 - Bank Inefficiencies & Chime's IPO00:11:33 - Consumer Fintech: Lessons & LTV00:15:50 - B2B Focus & Early-Stage Strategy00:19:15 - AI in Services: Accounting & Mortgage00:23:07 - Vertical SaaS & Embedded Finance00:31:10 - AI's Impact on Low-Margin Services00:33:34 - Doing More with Less & Moats00:40:01 - Regulatory Shifts & SF's Future

In this episode, we sit down with a University of Oregon professor specializing in entrepreneurship and tech innovation.  Alex Murray is an Assistant Professor of Management at the University of Oregon's Lundquist College of Business, specializing in how entrepreneurs pull resources together and how emerging tech—like crowdfunding, blockchain, and DAOs—is changing the game.  He's been published in top academic journals, sits on editorial boards for heavy-hitter publications like the Academy of Management Review, and was a Guest Editor for a special issue on AI in management. Before landing at UO, he was a Senior Researcher at ETH Zurich and earned his PhD from the University of Washington.  We explore the impact of AI on business and society, the challenges of revitalizing unbanked communities, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing. The conversation takes a deep dive into creativity, commerce, and technology, featuring personal stories of entrepreneurial struggles, investment strategies, and the changing dynamics of content creation in a saturated digital world. Timestamps & Key Moments

Published this week: the latest VoxDevLit covers microfinance. After many decades, microfinance is pervasive and popular in developing countries but is often controversial. What have we learned about what works, how it works, and who it helps – and what is there still to understand? Authors Simon Quinn, Muhammad Meki, and Jing Cai talk to Tim Phillips about the problems of evaluation, the surprising uses to which microfinance has been put, and the lessons that policymakers can learn from the story of microfinance so far. Read the full show notes here: https://voxdev.org/topic/finance/what-have-we-learned-about-microfinance Read and download the VoxDevLit from our new look website here: https://voxdev.org/voxdevlit/microfinance

சரிந்துகொண்டே இருக்கும் சந்தை Investors என்ன பண்ணனும், Asirvad Microfinance -க்கு RBI விதித்த தடை, Manappuram Finance பங்கு விலை சரியுமா, OLA -வுக்கு SEBI கண்டனம் பிரச்னையின் பின்னணி என்ன, Casagrand Premier, Dr Agarwals Healthcare IPO's கவனிக்க வேண்டிய விஷயங்கள் என்னனென்ன என்பது குறித்து இந்த வீடியோவில் தெளிவாக பேசியிருக்கிறார் பங்குச்சந்தை நிபுணர் வ.நாகப்பன்.

For decades microfinance was touted as a novel solution to poverty. The idea is simple – give poor women tiny loans to jumpstart small businesses and create profit. But when journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson moved to West Africa she met women who were jailed when they couldn't pay their mounting debt. In her book, “We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance,” Kardas-Nelson explores the complex history that led to microfinance banking empires, the painful reality gripping women who have taken out loans and also the ways that microloans have been a successful tool in lifting people from poverty. Guests: Mara Kardas-Nelson, Independent Journalist and Author of We are Not Able To Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance Laurie Styron, CEO / Executive Director, CharityWatch -www.charitywatch.org

« Finalement on ne repousse pas ses limites, on les découvre »  Ces mots, ce sont ceux de mon dernier invité au micro des Voix des Solutions, l'aventurier, conférencier et auteur Matthieu Tordeur.  À seulement 33 ans, il a déjà vécu de nombreuses expériences intenses, riches de l'audace qu'il nous appelle toutes et tous à cultiver :  ➡️ Un tour du monde de 11 mois, à sillonner les routes à bord d'une 4L pour découvrir la microfinance en actions ;➡️ Une traversée de 250km à travers le désert du Sahara - l'équivalent de 4 marathons - en 4 jours ;➡️ De nombreuses expéditions aux pôles Nord et Sud du globe, l'ayant même mené à devenir le plus jeune aventurier à traverser le pôle Sud - soit plus de 1 300 km - en solitaire et sans ravitaillement ! En une dizaine d'années, faite d'émerveillement et de dépassement de soi, Matthieu est aussi devenu un témoin de premier plan des conséquences du changement climatique, en particulier sur les milieux polaires. Lointains, peu habités, aux paysages à la limite de l'irréel, ils sont de véritables "climatiseurs de la Terre" essentiels à l'équilibre de l'ensemble de notre planète et de ses écosystèmes.  Se découvrir, découvrir le monde, ses merveilles comme ses fragilités, et découvrir des personnes exceptionnelles aux 4 coins du globe, c'est la vie qu'a décidé d'embrasser Matthieu Tordeur et qu'il me livre dans un très bel échange pour Les Voix des Solutions. Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Last month I had insightful conversations with two leaders in impact investing and sustainability. The first was with Rochus Mommartz, who is the CEO of responsAbility, and the other was with Jonathan Maxwell, who is the founding partner and CEO of Sustainable Development Capital. This episode is a special one which serves as a recap of the episodes from last month. It features a couple of key clips from each conversation in one place so you can jump around and get a feel for both the episode and the guest. Here's the full list of the guests featured today and the links to their full episode:Rochus Mommartz, the CEO of responsAbilityRochus Mommartz is a pioneer in impact investing who has spent decades creating opportunities for people in emerging markets. He played a key role in developing regulatory frameworks and microfinance models that enable financial inclusion and long-term growth for communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia.My interview with Rochus was so long and so compelling that I ended up splitting it into two episodes. We talked about the evolution of microfinance because Rochus was in the field and literally had a front-row seat to the evolution of this market in its earliest days. We also discussed responsAbility's strategy for managing $5 billion in investments across 70+ countries, balancing social impact with strong financial returns.Full Interview: Part 1Part 2Jonathan Maxwell, founding partner and CEO of Sustainable Development Capital LLP (SDCL)In this conversation Jonathan Maxwell presented a bold approach to climate challenges by focusing on reducing waste and maximizing efficiency. His EDGE model (Efficient and Decentralized Generation of Energy) drives resource savings across 50,000 properties worldwide. These projects support sustainability and also bring double-digit returns while cutting energy waste, showing how responsible and profitable investing can go hand in hand.Full Episode—The SRI 360° Podcast is focused exclusively on sustainable & responsible investing.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Key Takeaways:Intro (00:00)The early days of microfinance (03:10)Founding responsAbility and rising to CEO (17:02)Impact investing philosophy (25:05)ResponsAbility – overview and mission (30:24)15+ thematic funds impacting 70+ countries (36:44)Investment process, criteria, and impact measurement (43:08)Jonathan Maxwell on sustainability (01:15:01)SDCL's mission, activities, and investment focus (01:21:21)SDCL's theory of change (01:40:39)Project portfolio & impact measurement (01:52:58)—Additional Resources:ResponsAbility WebsiteResponsAbility LinkedInRochus Mommartz LinkedIn—SDCL websiteSDCL LinkedInJonathan Maxwell LinkedInBuy The Edge by Jonathan Maxwell

Today's episode will be part of a 3-part series where I, your host, Nathan Greene, interview a group of my current professors here at Clark University.  I want to preface this series by asking you what you think development is. Currently, I'm in my last semester of a master's in International Development at Clark University, where I've begun to question my own assumptions of what development is.  I was first introduced to this concept of development in my economic growth and development course at St. John's University. There, we explored how economic growth led to improvements in living standards that allowed people to achieve their full potential. This is what Nobel Laureate, Amartya Sen, calls his capability approach: when societies are able to produce the conditions necessary for people to flourish. But, since coming to Clark, my idea of development has changed. I began to separate economic development from general development. Growth wasn't always desirable, and could even lead to entrenched inequalities, environmental degradation, or accumulation by dispossession. So I want to ask you again, what does development mean to you? Is it different from economic growth? Are the two mutually exclusive? And, should we even strive for economic growth? To answer these questions, I've enlisted the help of three of my professors, who have helped shape my understanding of development. The first person we'll be speaking to is Dr. Jude Fernando, who will tell us about his research on Microfinance and small-scale solutions to societal improvement. The second person we'll speak with is Dr. Denise Bebbington to get a macro-level understanding of the impacts of economic growth. We'll then conclude with Dr. Dave Bell, who will give us a more metaphysical analysis of development and how the concept has changed over time.  Dr. Jude Fernando is currently a professor at Clark University and has held professorships at multiple institutions such as the University of Arizona, Dordt College, and the University of Colombo in Sri Lanka. His research work focuses on Microfinance and the role NGOs play in development. His research has earned him consulting roles at global institutions such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the Asia Foundation, and the World Bank. Dr. Fernando is the founder of the Alfa Children and Youth Training Institute in Sri Lanka, an NGO established to help children impacted by the Southeast Asian Tsunami of 2004. He has written many journal articles and book contributions but is also the author of The Political Economy of NGOs: State Formation in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Dr. Fernando earned his bachelor's degree in applied economics from the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka; and his PhD in economics, anthropology, and south asian history from the University of Pennsylvania. For today's episode, we'll discuss Microfinance and its criticisms, small- versus large-scale change, and why economists should rethink the importance of the solidarity economy.  To check out more of our content, including our research and policy tools, visit our website: https://www.hgsss.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smart-talk-hgsss/support

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-studies

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/economics

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this deeply researched and compelling narrative, journalist Mara Kardas-Nelson examines the complex history and impact of microfinance - the practice of giving small loans to poor people, particularly women, that was once hailed as a revolutionary solution to global poverty. Through intimate portraits of borrowers in Sierra Leone and extensive interviews with key figures in the microfinance movement, Kardas-Nelson reveals how an idea that began with noble intentions became a multi-billion dollar industry with sometimes devastating consequences for the very people it aimed to help. We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky: The Seductive Promise of Microfinance (Metropolitan Books, 2024) weaves together two parallel narratives: the stories of women in Sierra Leone struggling with high-interest microloans while trying to support their families, and the history of how microfinance evolved from a small experiment into a global phenomenon championed by the likes of Hillary Clinton and Muhammad Yunus. Through careful reporting and historical analysis, Kardas-Nelson explores how problematic ideologies about poverty, entrepreneurship, and individual responsibility shaped the development of microfinance programs, often overlooking local economic realities and existing informal lending practices. What makes this book particularly valuable is how it challenges conventional narratives about microfinance without dismissing the real needs that drive people to seek these loans. Through detailed portraits of women in Sierra Leone, Kardas-Nelson shows how borrowers navigate a complex web of debt, social obligations, and economic pressures. The author raises important questions about whether encouraging poor people to take on high-interest debt is truly the best way to address poverty, while also examining alternative approaches like direct cash transfers and comprehensive social services. This timely investigation offers crucial insights for anyone interested in international development, poverty alleviation, and the often unintended consequences of well-meaning interventions in the lives of the world's poor. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful analysis, Kardas-Nelson challenges readers to think more critically about how we approach poverty alleviation and what truly constitutes meaningful economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/finance

In today's episode, we look at 3 big stories:- Stories Coming Up!- Intro- How bad is the crisis in microfinance?- Why Is Burger King India Struggling?- Why Are Tata Technologies' Profits Declining?- TidbitsWe also send out a crisp and short daily newsletter for The Daily Brief. Put your email here and we'll make you smart every day: https://thedailybriefing.substack.com/You can also listen to this episode in Hindi: https://the-daily-brief-hindi.simplecast.com/Note: This content is for informational purposes only. None of the stocks, brands, or products mentioned are recommendations or endorsements.

In this Convo of Flanigan's Eco-Logic, Ted speaks with Richard Hansen, Senior Consultant and President of both Soluz, Inc & Soluz Honduras. Richard founded Soluz Inc., a Massachusetts corporation in 1993, and then established Soluz in Honduras in 1994 to commercialize solar for rural electrification. He is a pioneer in the application of solar technology combined with micro-finance to increase energy access in rural areas of Honduras, having introduced solar technology in the country starting in 1989 under a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy. Richard has provided advisory services for major institutions including USAID, the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank in Bangladesh, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Nepal, Nicaragua, the Philippines, and elsewhere. He has also been an invited speaker in countries ranging from Argentina and Honduras to Senegal and the Philippines. He and Ted discuss his background, originally from Connecticut, now based in the Boston area and internationally. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts and a master's degree in business administration from Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts. They also dig into his early works, pioneering the use of solar for rural electrification in the Dominican Republic with small systems installed by local solar companies combined with microfinance, a breakthrough that made solar systems affordable for rural families. This led to him introducing solar for rural electrification in Honduras, where he continues to lead efforts as President of Soluz Honduras. Soluz continues to work to advance the global transition to sustainable energy, with a special commitment to increasing access to electricity using solar photovoltaic technology. He highlights his focus on universal access, and not leaving anyone in the dark. 

Send us a textIn this episode of The Wall Street Skinny, we dive deep into the world of financial inclusion with Mary Ellen Iskenderian, President and CEO of Women's World Banking. Microfinance has long been hailed as a key tool for empowering women in emerging markets, but as Mary Ellen explains, true financial empowerment requires far more than just access to microloans.We explore how Women's World Banking is rethinking financial inclusion—looking beyond small-scale loans to other necessities like savings, insurance, and digital banking. Mary Ellen breaks down the complexities of creating sustainable economic growth, highlighting the importance of building financial resilience, promoting long-term wealth creation, and ensuring women have the tools to navigate both personal and global economic challenges.Throughout the conversation, we discuss the vital role of financial literacy, access to capital, and how tailored financial services can create lasting change for women entrepreneurs and their communities. This episode challenges the traditional view of microfinance and dives into the broader strategy needed to empower women economically—unlocking opportunities for sustainable, inclusive development.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on what it really takes to build a financially inclusive future for women around the world.Learn more about Women's World Banking: https://www.womensworldbanking.org/Mary Ellen Iskenderian is the President and CEO of Women's World Banking, a global nonprofit dedicated to serving the nearly one billion women excluded by the formal financial sector. She joined Women's World Banking in 2006 and leads its global team in partnering with financial institutions and policymakers around the world to design and develop solutions and programs that facilitate systemic change for women. Additionally, she oversees Women's World Banking's asset management business that makes direct equity investments in financial service providers as a means to advance women in the workplace and as customers.Mary Ellen is a passionate advocate for women's economic empowerment through greater access to finance; she urgeCheck out Public.com at the link http://public.com/wallstreetskinnyJoin the waitlist for our flagship course on IB and PE fundamentals!https://the-wall-street-skinny.mykajabi.com/waitlist-opt-in-IBDPublic Disclosure: All investing involves risk. Brokerage services for US listed securities, options and bonds in a self-directed brokerage account are offered by Public Investing, member FINRA & SIPC. Not investment advice. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank.Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1828849), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC. Securities investments: Not FDIC Insured; No Bank Guarantee; May Lose Value. See public.com/#disclosures-main for more information.Our content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Welcome back to the second part of the interview with Rochus Mommartz, the visionary CEO of responsAbility and a true impact warrior.With his specialized impact asset management house, Rochus is on a mission to create accessible opportunities for all, focusing on sectors that touch on the core needs of underserved populations – sustainable agriculture, climate finance, and financial inclusion.Today, responsAbility manages $5 billion in assets, directing its investments into the private markets of emerging economies where traditional financial services are either nonexistent or insufficient. Its portfolio covers more than 70 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe.In this episode, we dive deeper into responsAbility's investment strategy, which channels over 95% of its assets into private debt and private equity.In its mission, responsAbility prioritizes impactful outcomes. But achieving attractive financial returns remains equally important. With this dual focus, they meet investor expectations and continue to generate growth and positive impacts in the sectors they serve.Join us as Rochus explains responsAbility's investment process, the impact measurement techniques they employ, and the operational challenges they face in diverse and complex markets.Tune in to learn more about how strategic private market investments can drive significant social and economic progress worldwide, while also delivering strong financial returns.—About the SRI 360° Podcast: The SRI 360° Podcast is focused exclusively on sustainable & responsible investing. In each episode, I interview a world-class investor who is an accomplished practitioner from all asset classes. In my interviews, I cover everything from their early personal journeys to insights into how they developed and executed their investment strategies and what challenges they face today. Each episode is a chance to go way below the surface with these impressive people and gain additional insights and useful lessons from professional investors.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Key Takeaways:ResponsAbility – overview and mission (00:00) Private market focus (debt and equity) (06:02) 15+ thematic funds impacting 70+ countries (11:47) M&G acquisition (18:12) Investment process and criteria (22:22) Three-layer approach: ESG assessment, impact assessment, technical assistance (34:46) Tracking impact post-investment (49:13) Decreasing impact as a success factor (54:16) Managing risk when companies don't achieve expected impact (57:28) Correlation between impact and financial returns (58:34) The risks in financial sector development (01:05:00) Rapid fire questions (01:14:01) How to connect with Rochus (01:25:02)—Additional Resources:ResponsAbility Website ResponsAbility LinkedIn Rochus Mommartz LinkedIn

Get Mara's book here: https://us.macmillan.com/.../wearenotabletoliveinthesky   In the mid-1970s, Muhammad Yunus, an American trained Bangladeshi economist, met a poor female stool maker who needed money to expand her business. In an act widely known as the beginning of microfinance, Yunus lent $27 to forty-two women, hoping small credit would help the women pull themselves out of poverty. Soon, Yunus's Grameen Bank was born, and the idea of giving very small, high-interest loans to poor people took off. In 2006, Yunus and the Grameen Bank won the Nobel Peace Prize for “efforts to create economic and social development from below.”   But there's a problem with this story. There are mounting concerns that these small loans are as likely to bury poor people in debt as they are to pull them from poverty, with borrowers from India to Kenya facing consequences such as jail time and forced land sales. Reportedly hundreds have even committed suicide. What happened? Did microfinance take a wrong turn, or was it flawed from the beginning? Mara Kardas-Nelson's We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky is about unintended consequences, blind optimism, and the decades-long ramifications of seemingly small policy choices. The book is rooted in the stories of women borrowers in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Their narratives, woven through a deep history of modern international development, are set against the rise of Yunus's vision that tiny loans would “put poverty in museums.” Kardas-Nelson asks: What is missed with a single, financially focused solution to global inequity that ignores the real drivers of poverty? Who stands to benefit and, more important, who gets left behind?   Check out our new bi-weekly series, "The Crisis Papers" here: https://www.patreon.com/bitterlakepresents/shop   Thank you guys again for taking the time to check this out. We appreciate each and everyone of you. If you have the means, and you feel so inclined, BECOME A PATRON! We're creating patron only programing, you'll get bonus content from many of the episodes, and you get MERCH!   Become a patron now https://www.patreon.com/join/BitterLakePresents?   Please also like, subscribe, and follow us on these platforms as well, (specially YouTube!)   THANKS Y'ALL   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG9WtLyoP9QU8sxuIfxk3eg Twitch: www.twitch.tv/thisisrevolutionpodcast www.twitch.tv/leftflankvets​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisrevolutionpodcast/ Twitter: @TIRShowOakland Instagram: @thisisrevolutionoakland   Read Jason Myles in Sublation Magazine https://www.sublationmag.com/writers/jason-myles   Read Jason Myles in Damage Magazine https://damagemag.com/2023/11/07/the-man-who-sold-the-world/   Pascal Robert's Black Agenda Report: https://www.blackagendareport.com/author/Pascal%20Robert

Rochus Mommartz has spent decades creating opportunities for people in emerging markets. ⁤⁤Today, he's with us to share his insights and his experiences from that incredible journey.⁤Rochus is the CEO of responsAbility, a pioneer in impact investing that has evolved from a leader in microfinance to a prominent force in impact investing across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. It is known for its investment approach, using sustainability-based assessments that have been proven and refined over many years.⁤ResponsAbility has played a crucial role in building financial inclusion frameworks, helping microfinance institutions evolve into sustainable, profitable businesses that serve the underbanked. ⁤As part of the founding team and later as CEO in 2016, Rochus has been instrumental in shaping responsAbility's success. Few people were involved in microfinance before it even became an industry, but Rochus was pivotal in working with governments to create the frameworks that turned it into a profitable business that was financially sustainable in emerging markets. He had a front-row seat, witnessing firsthand how microfinance evolved from a charitable initiative into a sustainable, for-profit sector empowering the underbanked.With such a wealth of experience, our conversation ended up being so packed with insights that we've split it into two episodes.In this first part, we talk about Rochus' journey in impact investing, in microfinance, and the development of microfinance regulatory frameworks in emerging markets. He explains how creating opportunities for underserved populations through responsible investments can drive sustainable change. In the next episode, we'll dive even deeper into responsAbility's expansion beyond financial inclusion, and how the firm has managed billions in assets to drive lasting impact in sustainable agriculture and climate finance.Tune in today, and don't miss the next episode – I promise it'll be worth it!—About the SRI 360° Podcast: The SRI 360° Podcast is focused exclusively on sustainable & responsible investing. In each episode, I interview a world-class investor who is an accomplished practitioner from all asset classes. In my interviews, I cover everything from their early personal journeys to insights into how they developed and executed their investment strategies and what challenges they face today. Each episode is a chance to go way below the surface with these impressive people and gain additional insights and useful lessons from professional investors.—Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on XFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK—Key Takeaways:Rochus Mommartz's background (00:00) Education – “Rochus wins the lottery!” (06:12) The early days of microfinance and the challenge of sustainability (12:07) Importance of regulatory frameworks for microfinance institutions (17:48) Founding responsAbility and rising to CEO (28:18) Impact investing philosophy (41:42) Response + Ability = responsAbility (46:44) ResponsAbility's theory of change and the problems it solves (48:14) Three key impact investment themes (51:25) Addressing the ESG backlash and its difference from impact investing (53:44) The themes driving future impact (59:02)—Additional Resources:ResponsAbility WebsiteResponsAbility LinkedIn

The reality of microfinance, small loans of just a few dollars, is a lot messier than initially thought.

Nachhaltig Geld anlegen, um damit Gutes zu bewirken: Das wollen seit einigen Jahren immer mehr Menschen. Doch was genau ist nachhaltig und wie lässt sich das messen? Jessica Bodmann von Oikocredit im Gespräch. (00:00:00) Intro (00:02:10) Was macht nachhaltige Geldanlagen aus? (00:02:51) Wie misst man die Wirksamkeit? (00:05:57) Wie wichtig ist der ESG-Standard? (00:07:55) Wo investiert Oikocredit? (00:10:13) Microfinance: Vorteile und Kritik (00:12:47) Beispiele von Microfinance (00:16:05) Voraussetzungen für Impact Investing (00:20:17) Persönliche Motivation (00:22:20) Blick in die Zukunft (00:24:09) Verabschiedung Hier entlang geht's zu den Links unserer Werbepartner: https://detektor.fm/werbepartner/brand-eins-podcast Hier geht's zur aktuellen brand eins: https://www.brandeins.de/magazine/brand-eins-wirtschaftsmagazin/2024/geld Und hier zur Folge mit Philippa Sigl-Glöckner: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-philippa-sigl-gloeckner >> Artikel zum Nachlesen: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-jessica-bodmann-nachhaltige-geldanlagen

Nachhaltig Geld anlegen, um damit Gutes zu bewirken: Das wollen seit einigen Jahren immer mehr Menschen. Doch was genau ist nachhaltig und wie lässt sich das messen? Jessica Bodmann von Oikocredit im Gespräch. (00:00:00) Intro (00:02:10) Was macht nachhaltige Geldanlagen aus? (00:02:51) Wie misst man die Wirksamkeit? (00:05:57) Wie wichtig ist der ESG-Standard? (00:07:55) Wo investiert Oikocredit? (00:10:13) Microfinance: Vorteile und Kritik (00:12:47) Beispiele von Microfinance (00:16:05) Voraussetzungen für Impact Investing (00:20:17) Persönliche Motivation (00:22:20) Blick in die Zukunft (00:24:09) Verabschiedung Hier entlang geht's zu den Links unserer Werbepartner: https://detektor.fm/werbepartner/brand-eins-podcast Hier geht's zur aktuellen brand eins: https://www.brandeins.de/magazine/brand-eins-wirtschaftsmagazin/2024/geld Und hier zur Folge mit Philippa Sigl-Glöckner: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-philippa-sigl-gloeckner >> Artikel zum Nachlesen: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-jessica-bodmann-nachhaltige-geldanlagen

Nachhaltig Geld anlegen, um damit Gutes zu bewirken: Das wollen seit einigen Jahren immer mehr Menschen. Doch was genau ist nachhaltig und wie lässt sich das messen? Jessica Bodmann von Oikocredit im Gespräch. (00:00:00) Intro (00:02:10) Was macht nachhaltige Geldanlagen aus? (00:02:51) Wie misst man die Wirksamkeit? (00:05:57) Wie wichtig ist der ESG-Standard? (00:07:55) Wo investiert Oikocredit? (00:10:13) Microfinance: Vorteile und Kritik (00:12:47) Beispiele von Microfinance (00:16:05) Voraussetzungen für Impact Investing (00:20:17) Persönliche Motivation (00:22:20) Blick in die Zukunft (00:24:09) Verabschiedung Hier entlang geht's zu den Links unserer Werbepartner: https://detektor.fm/werbepartner/brand-eins-podcast Hier geht's zur aktuellen brand eins: https://www.brandeins.de/magazine/brand-eins-wirtschaftsmagazin/2024/geld Und hier zur Folge mit Philippa Sigl-Glöckner: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-philippa-sigl-gloeckner >> Artikel zum Nachlesen: https://detektor.fm/wirtschaft/brand-eins-podcast-jessica-bodmann-nachhaltige-geldanlagen

In today's episode for 11th July 2024, we tell you why the RBI has advised microfinance lenders to ease up on loan approvals in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Speak to Ditto's advisors now, by clicking the link here - https://ditto.sh/9zoz41

The seductive promise of microfinance might have conveniently died in the Western media, but Muhammad Yunis' alluring economic idea has actually wreaked unintentional havoc around the world. Mara Kardas-Nelson's important new book, We Are Not Able to Live in the Sky, reveals the damage done by microfinance loans in developing world countries like Sierra Leone and Bangladesh because their predatory interest rates. As too often with supposedly democratizing “innovations” like microfinance or cryptocurrency, Kardas-Nelson reminds us, it's poor people, particularly women, who ultimately get saddled with the techno-utopian bill. Mara Kardas-Nelson is an independent journalist focusing on international development and inequality. Her award-winning work has been supported by the International Women's Media Foundation, Investigative Editors and Reporters, the Richard J. Margolis Award and others and has appeared in the New York Times, the Nation, the Guardian, on NPR, and elsewhere. Mara has also spent years working in global health. Originally from the U.S., she has also lived in Canada, South Africa and Sierra Leone.Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best known broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running How To Fix Democracy show. He is also the author of four prescient books about digital technology: CULT OF THE AMATEUR, DIGITAL VERTIGO, THE INTERNET IS NOT THE ANSWER and HOW TO FIX THE FUTURE. Andrew lives in San Francisco, is married to Cassandra Knight, Google's VP of Litigation & Discovery, and has two grown children.Keen On is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

Mara Kardas-Nelson reads from her book about the history of small anti-poverty loans, how those came to dominate international development, and what that means for poor borrowers around the world.

Welcome back to Couchonomics with Arjun! This week, we're diving into Pakistan's financial services with Kabeer Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Microfinance Network. We explore the dynamic interplay between traditional banks, microfinance institutions, and fintechs, and discuss the digital transformation of Pakistan's financial ecosystem. Plus, we cover key topics like microfinance, regulatory advocacy, digital vs. traditional banking, and the challenges of serving MSMEs. Don't miss this insightful conversation! Available now on YouTube and all podcast platforms. Tune in! #Podcast #Fintech #Microfinance #Banking #DigitalTransformation #PakistanFinance #NewEpisodeCouchonomics with Arjun Season 3 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/ToYou https://toyou.io/arMastercard https://mastercard.com/Geidea https://geidea.net/M2P https://m2pfintech.com/Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E00:00- Episode Highlights01:07- Introduction02:18- Financial Services Landscape in Pakistan04:00- Microfinance in Pakistan12:08- Strategic Initiatives and Organizational Structure23:05- Digital vs. Traditional Banking33:28- Fintech Landscape in Pakistan42:50- Banking Partnerships with Fintechs45:51- Challenges in Serving MSMEs50:38- Regulatory Issues53:42- Talent Retention and Brain Drain56:36- Closing wordsOur website

In this episode, I speak with Nuraizah Shamsul Baharin, Founder and Managing Director of MADCash, a fintech that drives financial inclusion through Shariah compliant microfinance and data analytics in Malaysia. Nuraizah, who goes by Aizah, started her career as an engineer, working for companies like Nokia and Motorola in the 1990s and 2000s. Aizah founded MADCash in 2020 with a goal to improve financial access for women MSMEs in Malaysia. MADCash, which stands for Multiply Assist Donate Cash, works with women entrepreneurs by providing capital and financial education to grow their micro-businesses. MADCash raised a pre-series A round of $1M in 2023 led by impact investors and is using those funds to build their team, AI toolkit, and expansion into new markets like Tajikistan. You can learn more about them by visiting getmadcash.com.

Deputy Minister of Justice and Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah is assuring the general public that ex-Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe shall soon be brought to Ghana from the United States to serve the 10 years prison term. Madam Sedina Tamakloe was today sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labor. Also, the former Chief Operating Officer, Daniel Axim, has received a five-year sentence with hard labor. Both individuals were convicted on 78 counts, including causing financial loss to the state, theft, conspiracy to steal, money laundering, and violating public procurement laws.

How is microfinance different from international aid in the developing world? In this episode, Adam Torres and Tom Eggert, Founder and President at Wisconsin Microfinance, explore the Wisconsin Microfinance model and how small loans are actually making a difference in the lives of the loan recipients.Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule.Apply to be a guest on our podcast:https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/Visit our website:https://missionmatters.com/Support the showMore FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia

"شو ما بعمل الإنسان إنجازات بحياته، بضل يحتاج الناس حواليه!"

Nimisha recently got into the prestigious Masters in Management of London Business School (LBS MiM) after scoring 730 (90% percentile) on the GMAT with 2 months of preparation. Nimisha has always been very passionate about the MicroFinance sector. To transition into her dream sector, within 1.5 years of completing her engineering in Electronics and Communications and working at KPMG, she decided to pursue a Masters in Management from Europe. She took the GMAT test and scored 730 in the first attempt within 2 months. She then applied to two top MiM programs in Europe: LBS and HEC Paris. She eventually got into the LBS MiM program.

Asha Mehta is Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Global Delta Capital, where she has a thematic focus on Emerging and Frontier Markets as well as Sustainability Investing. She was previously Lead Portfolio Manager and Director of Responsible Investing at Acadian Asset Management and prior to that an investment banker.  She has traveled to over 80 countries and lived in six, and recently released a book, The Power of Capital: An Adventure Capitalist's Journey to a Sustainable Future. Our conversation starts with her upbringing and her parents' immigration story, and winds its way through Asha's college years and her early interest in biological sciences.  A setback to funding of a vaccine distribution project in India, led to her finding work experience in Microfinance, and there a belief in impact and the power of capital was born. Asha then takes on a world tour, first through an investor's lens - we hear about her travels around the world and the areas where technology is enabling leapfrogging of existing infrastructure and breakthroughs that improve living standards and ultimately create impact. We travel from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia, from Tunisia to Cambodia, and apply also the lens of sustainability, examining what meaningful ESG data looks like and how it can be used to fashion investment decisions. We spend some time speaking about Asha's book, The Power of Capital, which is written in the spirit of a true Adventure Capitalist, and the labor of love that that entailed.  Another labor of love was Asha's founding of her own firm Global Delta Capital, and we discuss the "adventure" of entrepreneurship and capital raising. You can find the book here: Link to powerofcapital.com and Power of Capital: An Adventure Capitalist's Journey to a Sustainable Future: Mehta, Asha: 9781119906032: Amazon.com: BookAs final words of wisdom, Asha encourages listeners to be the change they wish to see in the world. Similarly, to learn to work through change and even embrace it. Series 1 of 2024 is supported by Apollo Global Management, a leading provider of alternative asset management and retirement services solutions. Apollo seeks to provide clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum and is focused on empowering retirees, building and financing stronger businesses and driving a more sustainable future. 

Amata Thomas, a bishop for Christian Believers Fellowship, discusses how business and finance training can integrate with discipleship and evangelism. He explains how Open Hands, the ministry that he works for, coordinates savings groups where participants support each other in completing a training program that moves trainees away from financial vulnerability, exposes them more deeply to Christ and his word, and encourages restoration of four fundamental relationships: God, others, self, and creation. This and similar programs have helped to stabilize and grow the vulnerable, orienting them toward standing together in Christian community.This is the 206th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Did you know that nearly 2 billion people worldwide have no access to banking and financial services? A young tech engineer originally from India and living in Silicon Valley, decided to do what he could to change that. Premal Shah first began dreaming of “internet microfinance” while working at PayPal, the online payments company. In late 2004, Premal took a 3-month leave from PayPal to develop and test the internet microfinance concept in India. When he returned to Silicon Valley, he met other like-minded dreamers and quit his job at PayPal to help bring the Kiva concept to life and eventually to scale. At the time of this interview, Kiva had raised more than $1 million each week for the working poor in more than 60 countries and was named a Top 50 Website by TIME Magazine. Today they are helping in more than 80 countries. By donating just a few dollars, you can be part of the solution and change someone's life for the better.  Info and ways to donate at Kiva.org

Welcome to the Caring Economy Podcast, where we delve into the stories of individuals who are changing the world through innovative solutions. In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Andy Posner, the visionary founder of Capital Good Fund, a game-changing organization that's transforming the way we approach poverty alleviation. Andy Posner's journey to social impact began during his time pursuing a Master of Arts in Environmental Studies at Brown University. His academic pursuits, centered on financing mechanisms for clean energy, took an unexpected turn when he discovered the groundbreaking work of Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the 'Father of Microfinance.' Inspired by Dr. Yunus' vision and motivated by the financial crisis of 2008, Andy founded Capital Good Fund in 2009, with a mission to tackle poverty head-on.

Dive into the world of Microfinance in the newest episode of "Breaking Banks Europe." Our guest, Beryl Spoor van Andel, Innovation & Financial Product Development Specialist at Oiko Credit, sheds light on the vital role of microfinance in today's financial landscape. Hosted by Elizabeth Kleinveld, this 30-minute conversation, explores the transformative power of small-scale lending and financial inclusion. Beryl also spotlights the most impactful Microfinance projects, showcasing how they empower underserved communities and drive economic growth. Tune in to discover the ripple effect of Microfinance and its potential to reshape financial futures. ‌ Connect with our guest: Beryl Spoor van Andel Linkedln: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beryl-spoor-van-andel-58350a/ oikocredit.coop/en/

I am thrilled to revisit this brilliant conversation, delving into financial inclusion and the power of microfinance that you don't want to miss. I had an empowering conversation with Michelle Schenk from Kiva, a non-profit organization disrupting the status quo by offering financial access to underserved communities globally. Hear about her fascinating transition from working with orangutans to spearheading impactful initiatives that provide critical financing to extraordinary individuals and businesses. We discuss the innovative workings of Kiva Labs, a platform that empowers social enterprises and local entrepreneurs, and the impact of collective funding, where even small increments can make a huge difference. Discover more about the incredible work Kiva does, that even has celebrities like Oprah endorsing them! kiva.orgxo Laura Join the The Witch of Wall Street Community: Say hi on IG @thewitchof_wallstreet Download your free Investing Starter Guide here: lauratynan.com/investing_minibook Order your copy of "The Witch of Wall Street - A Step-by-Step guide to Personal Finance Mastery & Confident Investing for Women" on Amazon now. Explore everything else at lauratynan.com

I am thrilled to revisit this brilliant conversation, delving into financial inclusion and the power of microfinance that you don't want to miss.  I had an empowering conversation with Michelle Schenk from Kiva, a non-profit organization disrupting the status quo by offering financial access to underserved communities globally. Hear about her fascinating transition from working with orangutans to spearheading impactful initiatives that provide critical financing to extraordinary individuals and businesses. We discuss the innovative workings of Kiva Labs, a platform that empowers social enterprises and local entrepreneurs, and the impact of collective funding, where even small increments can make a huge difference. Discover more about the incredible work Kiva does, that even has celebrities like Oprah endorsing them! kiva.org*This is your final chance to apply to join our special Halloween experience, to go from zero to invested and truly become THAT wealthy witch! If this sounds like you, email WITCH to team@lauratynan.com and we'll send you the details. Visit lauratynan.com Connect on IG @thewitchof_wallstreet Download your free Money Date Guide here: lauratynan.com/moneydate

On this episode of #PaisaVaisa, Anupam is joined by Manish Kothari - President & Head, Commercial Banking, Kotak Mahindra Bank. They discuss in depth, the microfinance sector and how the same has changed over the last decade. They also discuss MSMEs and the unorganized money sector.Topping it off, they share thoughts on infrafinancing and the fastest growing infra segments of India!This and more on this episode of Paisa Vaisa! Know more Kotak Mahindra Bank at: Savings Accounts, Personal Loans and Credit Cards - Kotak Mahindra Bank Find Manish Kothari on Social Media:LinkedIn: ((2) Manish Kothari | LinkedIn) Get in touch with our host Anupam Gupta on social media:Twitter: ( https://twitter.com/b50 )Instagram: ( https://www.instagram.com/b_50/ )Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anupam9gupta/ ) You can listen to this show and other awesome shows on the IVM Podcasts website at https://www.ivmpodcasts.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacqueline Novogratz is the founder & CEO of Acumen - a non-profit global venture capital fund that aims to use entrepreneurial approaches to address global poverty. She was also born for crisis.As the OG of impact investing, her impressive list of accolades include:One of the World's 100 Greatest Living Business Minds 2017 by ForbesForbes 400 Lifetime Achievement Award for Social Entrepreneurship, 2016The Resolution Project Champions Circle Award, 2016Bloomberg Markets 50 Most Influential in Global Finance, 2014Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2008She also sits on the board of: Aspen Institute board of trusteesPakistan Business Council Centre of Excellence in Responsible Business (CERB)]Advisory Councils of the Harvard Business School Social Enterprise Initiative, the Oxford Saïd Global Leadership Council and UNICEF.When she graduated from the University of Virginia, she described herself as someone who was "excited, idealistic & had dreams in your head of changing the world and didn't have a clue how to start”.That start ended up being at Chase Manhattan Bank - despite telling the interviewer that she had no interest in banking & was only there because her parents told her to!She did so well, the then COO, Tony Triciano, wanted to fast track her career and have her be his right hand person.She said NO. She wanted to change the world.And left for Africa. There, she suffered failure after failure after failure.She learned that while she had gone to try & save the African continent, Africa neither wanted nor needed saving.But those lessons were invaluable and led her down the path of founding Acumen.Even when building Acumen felt like - in the words of Acumen's first COO, Dan Toole - “Standing at the 5th floor of a brick building & we're trying to build a terrace brick by brick with no safety net underneath!”So:❓ What is it like to live a life of such purpose?❓ Who are the people (+ life partner!) that you need to surround yourself with to keep the mission alive?❓ Why did her mentor, John Gardner, use to say that “the key to life is to be interested. Not interesting”?Well.You'll just have to listen to STIMY Ep 124 to find out!

Russell Matambo hosts Shivani Siroya, Founder and CEO of Tala, a global technology company expanding access to credit and financial services in underserved markets. They discuss how Shivani's built Tala on the basis of her microlending activity from her own savings, the importance of trust when lending in Emerging Markets, the socioeconomic impact of credit in Emerging Markets, and much more! About Shivani: Shivani is the Founder and CEO of Tala, a global technology company expanding access to credit and financial services in underserved markets. Nearly 8 million people across Kenya, the Philippines, Mexico, and India have used Tala products to start and expand small businesses, manage day-to-day needs, and pursue their financial goals with confidence. Tala has been named to the Fortune Impact 20 list, CNBC's Disruptor 50 four years in a row, and Forbes' Fintech 50 list for seven years running. Shivani has been invited to speak on Financial Inclusion at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Prior to founding Tala, Shivani worked in Investment Banking, Microfinance and for the United Nations Population Fund. She holds a BA from Wesleyan University and an MPH from Columbia University. —--- As always, for more Fintech insights and opportunities to collaborate, please find us below: WFT LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/wharton-fintech-club WFT Twitter: www.twitter.com/whartonfintech WFT Blog: www.medium.com/wharton-fintech WFT Home: www.whartonfintech.org Russell's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/russell-matambo-cfa-a5900039/

International listeners can support TBT here: https://buy.stripe.com/14keVU54r5hQ55S000 Kabeer Naqvi is the President & CEO at U Microfinance Bank Limited. Company's Website: https://ubank.com.pk/ #thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #microfinance Check out the trainings from Sarmaaya Financials: Training List: https://sarmaaya.pk/trainings/?src=tbt Technical Training Masterclass 2.0: https://sarmaaya.pk/trainings/details?tid=1&src=tbt Fundamentals of Capital Market: https://sarmaaya.pk/trainings/details?tid=2&src=tbt Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way! Socials: TBT's Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings Muzamil's Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan Support our podcast: https://anchor.fm/syed-muzamil-hasan-zaidi3/support Kabeer Naqvi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabeer-naqvi-5958191b4/ Podcast Links: • Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F • Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd • Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkfI --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/syed-muzamil-hasan-zaidi3/support

We hear about one Sri Lankan woman's struggle with debt after taking out a small loan - what does her story tell us about how to lend to people unable to access finance through banks all over the world? In a special two-part Business Daily report, Ed Butler investigates what's gone wrong with microfinance. It was once seen as a progressive way to help people like Renuka Ratnayake improve their lives, but has it led to a new wave of predatory lending? If you are affected by any of the issues covered in this programme, you can find information at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline. Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Renuka Ratnayake; Credit: BBC

Offering small unsecured loans to the world's poorest was meant to transform the lives of millions but in Sri Lanka microfinance has left many women with debts they simply can't repay. In a special two-part Business Daily report, Ed Butler visits the villages in Sri Lanka where many of those otherwise excluded from organised finance have taken small loans only for their finances to spiral into debt. What's gone wrong with mircofinance? Has it led to a new wave of predatory lending? Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Women in Welioya; Credit: BBC

If you want someone to manage your money then you better pay them. That's just one lesson from Ben Franklin's complicated financial life. Robert Brokamp talks with Michael Meyer, author of “Benjamin Franklin's Last Bet: The Favorite Founder's Divisive Death, Enduring Afterlife, and Blueprint for American Prosperity” about: - Franklin's mistakes in estate planning - The power of small, anonymous donations - Other fun facts about America's first celebrity Host: Robert Brokamp Guest: Michael Meyer Producer: Ricky Mulvey Engineer: Rick Engdahl