Podcasts about Socially responsible investing

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacqueline Novogratz, Founder & CEO of Acumen on her global journey that led her from the world of international banking to the heart of social entrepreneurship—beginning in Rwanda, and now reaching 650+ million lives through Acumen's work around the world.From Chase Bank to Kigali: A Journey Rooted in EmpathyJacqueline's journey began not with a grand strategy, but with a moment of clarity while working in Rwanda in the late 1980s, where she helped launch one of the country's first microfinance institutions.There, she witnessed how markets could be harnessed to empower individuals—especially women—but also saw how fragmented and fragile traditional aid systems were."Access isn't enough; capability is key."That idea would eventually become Acumen.The Founding of Acumen: Bridging Markets and PhilanthropyFounded in 2001, Acumen was created to tackle what Jacqueline calls "the blue flame" space—the gap between pure philanthropy and market-driven capitalism. Acumen uses “patient capital” to invest in entrepreneurs solving problems in energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, and workforce development."We need to reframe what risk means in investing."Acumen has since invested over $150 million into companies that have impacted millions of people in low-income communities across Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. But the goal isn't just scale—it's systemic change.What It Takes to Build Markets That Work for the PoorJacqueline explains that creating sustainable impact requires far more than capital—it demands a deep understanding of local contexts, cultural norms, and the lived experiences of the communities being served."The status quo exists for a reason; change is hard."She emphasizes that real progress depends on:Entrepreneurial courageLong-term thinkingCollaboration with governments and civil societyAcumen works to build "markets with moral imagination", where value creation doesn't come at the cost of human dignity or environmental degradation.Education, Circular Impact, and the Future of Social EntrepreneurshipAnother major focus of Acumen is education. Through the Acumen Academy, they've trained over 1,800 social enterprise leaders, equipping them with tools in moral leadership, storytelling, and systems thinking.Jacqueline envisions a circular economy of impact investing, where capital flows to and from communities, creating sustainable, inclusive systems over time."Resilience and moral imagination are essential qualities for social entrepreneurs."She sees the future of impact rooted in innovative partnerships—between private and public sectors, startups and institutions, and across geographies.A Legacy of Courage and CompassionAs Jacqueline looks ahead, her message is clear: we need a new moral framework for capitalism—one that measures success not just in returns, but in human dignity and long-term value for society.Her story is a reminder that systems can change, markets can heal, and entrepreneurs—when supported with the right kind of capital and community—can solve the world's most pressing problems. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 88 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Medea Nocentini, Senior Partner at Global Ventures and Founder of C3 – Companies Creating Change, about scaling impact across the Middle East and Africa.Medea brings a unique blend of corporate strategy, venture capital, and impact entrepreneurship. At Global Ventures, she invests in growth-stage startups transforming emerging markets through technology.As founder of C3, a B Corp-certified social enterprise, she has supported over 300 impact-driven startups across 27 countries, helping them raise more than $550 million to date.In this episode, we discuss:The evolution of impact investing in the Middle East and AfricaKey challenges and opportunities for startups in frontier marketsHow C3 builds scalable programs to support foundersThe role of partnerships and ecosystem-building in driving long-term impactLet's dive in. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 87 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Andy Kuper, Founder and CEO of LeapFrog Investments, a pioneering firm that has reshaped how global capital can drive profit with purpose.Dr. Andy Kuper, founder and CEO of LeapFrog Investments, has redefined how private capital can create meaningful change. Since launching the firm in 2007, Kuper has led with a bold vision: to deliver "Profit with Purpose" by investing in businesses that generate strong returns while solving real-world challenges across Asia and Africa.

Send us a textHave you heard people talking about The Great Wealth Transfer and wondered what they were talking about? Do you feel like something's missing from the conversation?Dive into today's episode for a quick summary of what's happening and what no one's talking about.Links from today's episode:What is the “great wealth transfer,” and who'll benefit from it? | Marketplace | December 2024https://www.marketplace.org/2024/12/12/what-is-the-great-wealth-transfer-and-inheritance-millenials-gen-z/The Great Inequality Transfer, Urban Institute, 2024https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/2024-10/The_Great_Inequality_Transfer.pdfWhy the Great Wealth Transfer Is Making History for Women and Wealth | Ellevest | January 2024https://www.ellevest.com/magazine/investing/great-wealth-transfer ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode#155 How Gen Z Thinks about InvestingLove the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf:https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets As an affiliate of Bookshop.org, Progressive Pockets will earn a commission if you make a purchase.Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 86 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Howard Fischer, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of Gratitude Railroad, to discuss his journey from Wall Street to impact investing and how Gratitude Railroad is building a community-driven approach to fund entrepreneurs creating lasting social and environmental change.Prior to his work in impact investing, Howard spent over 30 years in traditional finance as the Founder and CEO of Basso Capital Management, a hedge fund specializing in convertible securities.He previously held senior trading roles at Smith Barney, Drexel Burnham Lambert, and Cohen Feit & Company, and began his career as a Certified Public Accountant in both public and private sectors.Howard currently serves on the boards of 1% for the Planet, The Carbon Underground, and the Garrison Institute's Compassionate Leaders in Finance program.He also advises BrightEdge, the investment fund of the American Cancer Society, and has held board positions with DoneGood, Builders Fund, Atlas Impact Partners, and Blackdirt Capital.He holds a B.S.E. in Accounting and Finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and was a Fellow in Harvard University's Advanced Leadership Initiative in 2013 and 2014. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

Ever wonder if boycotting a company means you should dump their stock too? Stoy Hall cuts through the noise and gets brutally honest about the disconnect between your values and your wealth journey.In this no-holds-barred episode, Stoy tackles the controversial Target boycott debate and reveals why emotional investing decisions could be sabotaging your financial future. He exposes the critical flaw in a popular pastor's financial advice and offers a perspective that will challenge how you think about corporate influence."Stop listening to everyone in the media. Understand your situation, what matters to you the most and make the financial decision based upon that." - Stoy HallIf you're tired of financial advice that ignores reality and leaves you holding the bag, this episode is your wake-up call. Learn why owning stock might give you MORE power to create change than walking away.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 85 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Matt Eldridge, Executive Director of Realize Impact, on using Donor Advised Funds to innovate impact investing.Impact investing is often perceived as complex, requiring a balance between financial returns and social good.Realize Impact eliminates these barriers, providing a streamlined process that enables individuals, foundations, and donor-advised funds (DAFs) to invest in high-impact ventures while maintaining financial sustainability.How It WorksImpact investing through Realize Impact is facilitated via the Philanthropic Investment Grant (PHIG)—a simple and effective way to direct capital toward high-impact ventures.By recommending an investment and providing matching capital, donors can amplify their contributions while supporting meaningful change.Realize Impact simplifies impact investing into three steps:Grant Recommendation – Investors recommend an impact investment through a grant from a DAF, foundation, or personal funds.Due Diligence & Investment – Realize Impact conducts research, reviews terms, and executes the investment in debt, equity, or revenue-based funding.Returns & Reinvestment – 99% of the investment returns are donated back to the investor's recommended DAF, foundation, or nonprofit for reinvestment.This model allows investors to support impactful projects without the complexities of direct investment management.What is a Donor Advised Fund?A Donor Advised Fund is a philanthropic giving vehicle that allows donors to contribute funds, receive immediate tax benefits, and then recommend grants to eligible charities over time.Think of it as a charitable savings account, where individuals or families set aside funds dedicated to philanthropic purposes.These funds are managed by sponsoring organizations, such as community foundations, universities, or specialized charitable organizations, which administer the DAF on behalf of the donor.Unlocking Capital for Global SolutionsSignificant capital remains idle in donor-advised funds and foundations. Realize Impact mobilizes these funds into ventures addressing key global challenges such as:Climate change – Investing in renewable energy and sustainable business models.Economic empowerment – Supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs with access to capital.Social equity – Financing housing, education, and healthcare initiatives.By actively deploying philanthropic capital, Realize Impact maximizes both financial and social returns.Transparent Fee StructureRealize Impact offers a straightforward, affordable pricing model:$500 flat fee for investments of $10,000 or more.No fee for investments under $10,000 (though returns are not re-donated).This ensures accessibility while maintaining financial sustainability.Redefining Impact InvestingContrary to the belief that impact investing sacrifices returns, Realize Impact proves that financial and social benefits can align.By reinvesting returns into donor-advised funds and nonprofits, the organization amplifies the impact of every dollar. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 84 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, I'm joined by Daryn Dodson, Founder and Managing Director of Illumen Capital, an impact fund of funds committed to advancing gender and racial equity in financial markets.Illumen Capital invests in leading growth, private equity, and venture impact funds, providing fund managers with targeted coaching and tools to reduce implicit biases in decision-making.Previously, Daryn consulted for the Board of Calvert Funds, a $15 billion impact investing pioneer, managing a global portfolio of over 40 funds across five continents, encompassing more than 350 companies.He also served as Director of University and Corporate Partnerships at The Idea Village, where he secured over 100,000 hours and $2 million in resources from private equity firms, business schools, and Fortune 500 companies to rebuild New Orleans' entrepreneurial ecosystem after Hurricane Katrina.He serves on the Board of Directors for Ben & Jerry's, the CFA Institute's Future of Finance Advisory Council, the New Venture Fund, and the Impact Assets Investment Committee.Daryn earned his M.B.A. from Stanford University, where he served on the Dean's Management Board, and his A.B. from Duke University. His work reflects a steadfast commitment to equity and measurable impact in financial markets and beyond.About Illumen CapitalIllumen Capital, an impact-focused fund of funds, is on a mission to challenge the status quo. By reducing racial and gender bias in financial decision-making, Illumen Capital aims to create a more inclusive and optimized asset management industry—one that not only drives equity but also enhances financial performance.Illumen Capital partners with institutional investors to empower the next generation of diverse-led venture and private equity fund managers.Their mission is rooted in the belief that an equitable asset management industry will be the cornerstone of a more just and prosperous future.Why it matters:Racial and gender bias limits potential. Research led by Illumen Capital and Stanford SPARQ revealed that race influences the decision-making of professional investors. Alarmingly, high-performing Black-led funds are often rated more harshly on subjective criteria such as competence and social fit.Missed opportunities: This bias not only perpetuates inequities but causes investors to unknowingly overlook high-potential investment opportunities. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

Send us a textThis week's episode is a quick recap of the most popular episodes of 2024. Whether you're a new listener or you want to take a walk down memory lane, enjoy these top picks of the year!Previous Recap VideosEpisode#103 Most Popular Episodes of 2023Episode#62 Most popular episodes of 2022Most popular episodes of 2024:Episode#147 The surprising truth about what ESG actually meansEpisode#107 Dr. King's Radical Money BeliefsEpisode#144 How to help your clients invest for more than financial returns: how to consider societal values tooEpisode#124 What to ask a financial planner if you want them to consider your societal valuesEpisode#148 Is your bank funding politicians you don't support? Consider these 4 banks insteadEpisode#122 How I switched to a socially responsible index fundEpisode#127 How I screen charities before I donateSpotify Playlist Most Popular Episodes of 2024 Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show:1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Welcome to Episode 83 of the Investing in Impact podcast. Today, we're joined by Dan Fishman, Co-Founder and General Partner of Regeneration.VC, a venture capital firm at the forefront of Consumer ClimateTech. Regeneration.VC specializes in supporting early-stage companies that are redefining consumer industries through sustainability-focused innovation.TakeawaysThe next generation of founders is focused on solving climate issues.Sustainable brands are outpacing conventional brands in growth.Technology is key to transforming material science and production methods.Supply chains can be innovated without complete overhaul.Creativity in entrepreneurship is being overshadowed by data-driven decisions.The U.S. has potential to lead in climate tech but needs to evolve.California remains a leader in climate legislation and innovation.The future of work in climate tech is about creating lasting careers.Regeneration.VC's mission is to drive systemic change by investing in groundbreaking solutions that prioritize circularity, sustainable materials, and carbon reduction technologies. By addressing the intersection of consumer demand and environmental impact, Regeneration.VC aims to create a future where business growth aligns with planetary health.Through their portfolio, the firm champions visionary startups working on innovative solutions in sustainable fashion, eco-friendly packaging, renewable products, and more. Regeneration.VC is not just funding businesses but fostering a movement toward a regenerative economy that prioritizes environmental restoration and resilience.Dan brings a unique perspective to this work, shaped by his diverse career spanning entertainment, fashion, and food industries. He co-founded Bulldog Entertainment Group, worked with major celebrity brands, and launched successful fashion ventures like House of Harlow 1960 and Winter Kate. In the food sector, he was the first investor and President of Coolhaus, leading its vegan product line launch and eventual acquisition by Perfect Day. His entrepreneurial expertise and passion for sustainability drive the vision of Regeneration.VC. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

In this episode, Dr. Preston Cherry and Shana Sissel discuss the importance of alternative investments in portfolio construction and risk management. They explore the vast universe of alternatives, how they can align with personal values, and the evolving landscape of investment strategies.Key Points:• Alternative investments offer diverse opportunities outside of traditional stocks and bonds.• A balanced portfolio should mix core and alternative investments to manage risk.• Knowing how different assets interact helps in creating a strong investment strategy.• Investors should choose alternatives that align with their values and interests.• Discussing risk, liquidity, and goals with clients is key for building successful investment plans.Want to learn more? Connect with us below!Pre-Order Dr. Cherry's book 'Wealth In The Key of Life'Sign up for 'Make Your Finances Flourish' Live Workshop!Get a Free Finances Guide and Check Out Financial Planning Services Receive Our Free Personal Finance NewsletterDr. Preston D. CherryWhat we share here is for educational purposes only, not personal financial advice. Feel free to join in the discussion! See our disclosures for more information: https://www.concurrentfp.com/disclosures/

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In episode 82 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with David Lynn, Co-Founder and CEO of Mission Driven Finance (MDF), an organization focused on closing capital gaps and catalyzing economic opportunities in underserved communities.In this conversation, David shares his unconventional journey from tech to finance and the catalysts that led him to establish MDF.We dive into MDF's mission to bridge capital gaps by focusing on private credit and real estate to support local businesses, and David highlights the importance of community-driven due diligence, where relationships are prioritized over traditional metrics.David also discusses the diverse sources of capital backing MDF, including foundations, high-net-worth individuals, and institutional investors, and MDF's expansion from its roots in San Diego to a national scale.Looking forward, he outlines MDF's ambitious goal of moving a billion dollars into communities by 2027 and the broader potential for blended finance policies to drive growth in impact investing. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In episode 81 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Dan Barker, President and CEO of Halcyon, an incubator and investor in early-stage, impact-driven startups from around the globe.About DanDan is a seasoned leader in impact investing and social entrepreneurship. As the President and CEO of Halcyon, he's dedicated to nurturing and funding innovative startups making a positive global impact. Before joining Halcyon, Dan held leadership roles at Mastercard, BlackRock, and Deloitte, where he focused on driving social change through research, strategy, and investment.His academic background, including a master's degree from Columbia University and a bachelor's degree from NYU, further complements his deep understanding of international finance and economic policy. Dan's commitment to fostering a more equitable world is evident in his service on various advisory boards and his role as a judge for the Inclusive Fintech 50.Halcyon: Accelerating the Impact-Driven FutureHalcyon is a leading incubator and investor dedicated to fostering the growth of early-stage, impact-driven startups. Since 2014, Halcyon has empowered social entrepreneurs with the resources, community, and expertise they need to succeed. By providing fellowships, mentorship, and investment opportunities, Halcyon helps startups address critical global challenges in Health, Climate, and EquityTech.Halcyon House: A Historic Hub for InnovationHalcyon House, a historic 18th-century mansion nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C.'s Georgetown neighborhood, serves as the beating heart of Halcyon. Once home to the first Secretary of the Navy, Benjamin Stoddert, this iconic building now provides a unique and inspiring workspace for Halcyon's fellows.With its rich history and elegant surroundings, Halcyon House fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Its grand rooms, including the historic library and the modern boardroom, provide the perfect setting for Halcyon's programs, events, and community gatherings. Whether it's a fellowship retreat, a speaker series, or a networking event, Halcyon House offers a distinctive backdrop that elevates the experience.For Halcyon's fellows, the mansion is more than just a workspace. It's a place to connect with like-minded individuals, seek inspiration, and grow their businesses. The serene atmosphere and stunning architecture create an ideal environment for focused work and creative thinking. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

Welcome to The Write Start Podcast! I'm your host Lisa Iannucci and my guest this week is someone I've known for many years and I'm thrilled she's here. Ann Logue (rhymes with vogue) is a writer specializing in business and finance. She is interested in the intersection of money, culture, investing, and technology. She is the author of five books, Options Trading (Alpha 2016; 2e Penguin 2023), Emerging Markets for Dummies (Wiley 2010), Socially Responsible Investing for Dummies (Wiley 2009), Day Trading for Dummies (Wiley 2007; 5e 2024), and Hedge Funds for Dummies (Wiley 2006; 2e 2023). She has also provided ghostwriting and technical editing services for books published by Bloomberg Press, ClydeBank Media, the International Monetary Fund, and Pearson Educational Services.In addition to her books, Logue has written about industries, executives, and current events for a wide range of consumer and trade publications. She has also taught finance at more places than I have time to list. She was once an analyst with Volpe Brown Whelan & Co., The Chicago Corporation, and Kemper Mutual Funds. She has written for Business Insider, Entrepreneur, and Alternatives Watch, among other publications. She lives in Chicago and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. You're about to learn a lot in this episode. Enjoy!Please rate this episode where you listen to it and leave a review. Feel free to share the episode if you liked it and, if you'd be so kind, please follow me on Instagram @thewritestartpodcast. Until next time! Support the showIf you like what you've listened to and would like to support The Write Start podcast, please visit https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322467/supporters/new. I'll give you a shoutout on the show! Thanks! Support the showIf you like what you've listened to and would like to support The Write Start podcast, please visit https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322467/supporters/new. I'll give you a shoutout on the show! Thanks!

Terry Pope (Institutional Marketing) discusses the firm's history of Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) initiatives. To learn more about Gabelli Funds' fundamental, research-driven approach to investing, visit https://m.gabelli.com/gtv_cu or email invest@gabelli.com. Connect with Gabelli Funds: • Twitter - https://twitter.com/InvestGabelli • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/investgabelli/ • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InvestGabelli • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/investgabelli/ http://www.Gabelli.com Invest with Us 1-800-GABELLI (800-422-3554)

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In episode 80 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Cole Shephard, founder of Legacy Group, on his mission to become a leading coffee producer in Colombia while maintaining a focus on sustainability and social impact.About Cole ShephardCole is a Partner at Legacy Group, an alternative asset manager focused on high-impact investment opportunities in the U.S. and Latin America.Founded in 2015, Legacy Group aims to bridge the gap between financial capital and ventures with significant social and environmental impact across various sectors, including real estate, agriculture, and technology.Before founding Legacy Group, Cole spent eight years with Pricewaterhouse Coopers, working across the U.S., Bermuda, Hong Kong, and Beijing. His expertise spans accounting, advisory, and consulting, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions in industries like financial services, real estate, and healthcare.In this episode, Cole shares valuable insights on building business models that integrate environmental and social initiatives, emphasizes the importance of adaptability for aspiring entrepreneurs, and outlines the ambitious future goals for the Green Coffee Company.Key Takeaways from the Interview:Green Coffee Company is Colombia's largest coffee producer.The company focuses on sustainability and social impact.Building a business for the long term is crucial.Education and talent development are key to success.Entrepreneurship involves facing numerous challenges.Aspiring entrepreneurs should learn from experiences.Identifying strengths and weaknesses is essential.Future goals include becoming a public company.The company aims for nationwide expansion in Colombia.Building a community around the business is important. ----------------------------------------Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

In episode 79 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Ed Marcum, the Managing Partner of the Working Capital Fund, on the innovations creating a more transparent and responsible global supply chain.With over 20 years of experience in human rights and venture capital investing, Ed has worked across the for-profit, nonprofit, and public policy sectors.Previously, he spent more than a decade at Humanity United, guiding initiatives to address forced labor in corporate supply chains.He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA/MA from The Wharton School and the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania.About the Working Capital FundThe Working Capital Fund is on a mission to improve the lives of marginalized workers, catalyzing economic justice by investing in innovative solutions that address the deep-seated challenges of global supply chains.Global supply chains are enormous, involving millions of workers across thousands of businesses. On average, a Fortune 500 company works with over 10,000 suppliers, producing the goods that consumers rely on daily.However, these supply chains are often associated with some of the most pressing challenges humanity faces, including forced labor, unfair wages, and environmental degradation.Annually, over $354 billion worth of goods are at risk of being tainted by forced labor, with more than 17 million workers trapped in modern slavery conditions.These challenges are often hidden deep within supply chains, making them difficult to detect and resolve. Moreover, supply chains are a primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating the climate crisis.How the Working Capital Fund Works to Create ImpactThe Working Capital Fund focuses on investing in technologies and solutions that address the injustices inherent in global supply chains.Through its strategic investments, it aims to create a positive impact on workers and the environment. Key areas of focus include:1. AI-Enabled Transparency ToolsOne of the biggest challenges in addressing supply chain issues is the lack of transparency. Corporations often do not have visibility into the practices of their suppliers, making it difficult to identify labor violations or environmental concerns.By investing in AI-enabled transparency tools, the Working Capital Fund is empowering companies to map their entire supply chains and assess risks in real time.These tools offer a clear view of potential human rights abuses or environmental risks, helping businesses make more informed decisions about their suppliers.2. Worker-Voice SolutionsEmpowering workers is a critical part of creating a fair and just supply chain. The Working Capital Fund invests in worker-voice solutions that give laborers the tools they need to hold their employers accountable.These solutions allow workers to anonymously report unsafe working conditions, wage theft, or other violations, providing valuable feedback to companies and regulators.With this data, stakeholders can take action to improve labor conditions and ensure that workers' rights are respected.3. Financial Technology for Fair PayEnsuring fair wages for workers is another priority for the Working Capital Fund.By investing in financial technologies, the Fund is helping to create systems that ensure workers are paid promptly and fairly.These technologies also help gather sustainability data on upstream suppliers, providing insights into whether they are adhering to ethical labor practices.With this information, companies can work towards ensuring that their entire supply chain is both economically and socially responsible.

Send us a textLong gone are the days when investors left their societal values at the door. These days, most investors want to invest with their environmental and social values in mind.If you are a financial advisor, you may feel intimidated or skeptical about how to serve clients who want you to incorporate their societal values into their financial plans.This week's episode provides simple suggestions to guide advisors (or DIY investors!) on how to incorporate values aligned principles into how they serve their clients.Links from today's episode:‘Not just money and math': Young people are willing to sacrifice returns for ESG | CNBC Aug 2023https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/27/not-just-math-and-numbers-young-people-are-willing-to-sacrifice-returns-for-esg.html The ESG Generation Gap: Millennials and Boomers Split on Their Investing Goals | Nov 2022https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/esg-generation-gap-millennials-boomers-split-their-investing-goals Beyond Returns: The Rise Of Values-Aligned Investing | Forbes May 2023https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/05/26/beyond-returns-the-rise-of-values-aligned-investing/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode #120 Where can I find an advisor to help me invest according to my societal values?Episode#124 What to ask a financial planner if you want them to consider your societal values Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show

In episode 78 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Gavin Smith PhD, Managing Director, Head of Equity Research and Sustainable Investing for PGIM Quantitative Solutions, on his journey into sustainable investing and the evolution of ESG and SDGs.Gavin Smith, PhD, is the Managing Director and Head of Equity Research and Sustainable Investing at PGIM Quantitative Solutions. In this role, he leads the integration of ESG factors into the firm's investment platform and oversees research and analysis for Quantitative Equity portfolios.Prior to this, Gavin was a portfolio manager and a key member of PGIM's Research team, focusing on alpha and implementation strategies. Before joining PGIM, he led the North American Quantitative Research team at Macquarie Capital and held research roles at Barclays Capital and Plato Investment Management in Sydney, Australia.Gavin holds a BComm (Honors) in finance from the University of Wollongong and a PhD in finance from the University of New South Wales, Australia.TakeawaysGavin's dual role combines quantitative equity research with sustainable investing.The evolution of ESG has been significant since the Paris Climate Accord.Data quality is crucial for effective ESG and SDG investing.Key metrics for evaluating companies include carbon emissions, water usage, and diversity.Engagement with companies is essential for improving data transparency.SDGs provide a framework for assessing the impact of investments.Greenwashing poses a challenge in identifying truly sustainable companies.The future of sustainable investing relies on better data and education.Investors are increasingly interested in the financial performance of sustainable companies.The integration of ESG and SDGs can lead to more impactful investment strategies.Thrive in the Impact Economy.Join 20k+. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and curated products that drive the Impact Economy. Our mission is to highlight and celebrate the founders, creators, investors, and conscious brands shaping the future of conscious business and philanthropy.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com

In episode 77 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Lawrence Williams III, Partner at the De-Carceration Fund, on the fund's mission to support startups that address the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and those reentering society.The U.S. criminal justice system affects over 6.6 million people and costs the nation more than $80 billion per year.The De-Carceration Fund is unique in its mission to support and invest in enterprises that directly address the failings of the U.S. criminal justice system. The fund's multipronged strategy includes backing companies that work in areas such as:Preventing Entry: Advocating for reforms in gun control, cash bail, foster care, law enforcement, and domestic violence to reduce the number of individuals who enter the criminal justice system.Reducing Suffering: Supporting efforts in juvenile justice, legal costs, prison programming, family support, and sentence reduction to ease the burdens placed on those within the system.Ending the Cycle: Addressing recidivism by promoting reform and rehabilitation that help formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society and avoid re-incarceration.The Economics of IncarcerationThe current system perpetuates a cycle of financial exploitation and human suffering. Private companies make approximately $7 billion from prison operations, with over $3 billion of that coming directly from the families of incarcerated individuals.Each inmate costs an average of $35,000 per year, yet over half of those released return to prison within three years.This broken system not only drains resources but fails to provide meaningful solutions to reduce crime or support rehabilitation.The indirect costs of incarceration, estimated at $260 billion annually, further highlight the deep flaws in the system.These costs ripple through society, affecting families, communities, and the overall economy.

In this episode, Steve and Travis discuss the concept of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and its impact on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing. They explain that DEI is a relatively new hot topic and how it has become a part of the socially responsible investing space. They highlight the importance of understanding the definitions of ESG and SRI (Socially Responsible Investing) and how companies are using these concepts for PR purposes. They also discuss the challenges of investing based on trends and the need for individual investors to define their own values and build a portfolio that aligns with those values.notes________________________________________________________________Join our Skool Community at https://www.skool.com/ditch-the-suits-9234. You can interact with us, ask questions and get additional resources.Thanks to our sponsor, S.E.E.D. Planning Group! S.E.E.D. is a fee-only financial planning firm with a fiduciary obligation to put your best interest first. Schedule your free discovery meeting at www.seedpg.comYou can watch all episodes, as well as other great content produced by NQR Media through their YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@NQRMedia

In episode 76 the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Amy Duffuor, General Partner of Azolla Ventures, on combining catalytic capital with traditional venture capital to support climate tech companies.TakeawaysAzolla Ventures combines catalytic capital with traditional venture capital to support climate tech companies.Portfolio companies of Azolla Ventures include Lilac Solutions, Noon Energy, and Carbon Reform, which are working on innovative solutions in lithium extraction, long-duration energy storage, and carbon capture.There is a need to integrate equity and justice into climate investments and prioritize underfunded areas like rice cultivation, ocean-related projects, and alternative proteins.About Azolla VenturesAzolla Ventures partners with visionary founders to accelerate transformative climate solutions. Their mission is clear: to invest in breakthroughs that can avert catastrophic climate change and return our world to balance.By focusing on ventures at the earliest stages, where risk and reward are highest, Azolla Ventures prioritizes impact above all, ensuring that each investment holds the potential for large-scale greenhouse gas reductions and a more just climate for all.

Exploring the Benefits and Fit of SRI & ESG Choices for You

In episode 75 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Larry Selzer, the CEO of The Conservation Fund, on his journey and the organizations path to being the investment bank for Conservation.Larry Selzer, the CEO of the Conservation Fund, discusses his journey in conservation and the mission of the organization. The Conservation Fund is a nonprofit that buys land for conservation and promotes sustainable economic development. They work with public agencies to acquire land and hold it until the agencies are ready to purchase it back.The organization focuses on protecting working forests and farms, which provide clean air, clean water, and jobs for rural communities. Selzer also discusses the importance of carbon markets and the need for regulations to ensure transparency and integrity.TakeawaysThe Conservation Fund buys land for conservation and promotes sustainable economic development.Working forests and farms are important for clean air, clean water, and jobs in rural communities.Carbon markets and carbon credits play a crucial role in achieving climate solutions.Regulations and standards are needed to ensure transparency and integrity in the carbon offset market.The future of conservation lies in the convergence of the environmental movement and the free enterprise system.Sound Bites"Conservation and economic development is where we like to play.""Land conservation is part of the solution to some of our great challenges.""We need to build and deploy hundreds of thousands of miles of new transmission capacity."About The Conservation FundThe Conservation Fund is an American nonprofit organization founded in 1985, committed to the dual goals of environmental preservation and economic development. With a mission to protect America's most critical lands and waters, The Conservation Fund has become a leader in advancing sustainable, community-based conservation efforts.Mission and VisionThe Conservation Fund aims to create solutions that make environmental and economic sense. By blending the benefits of conservation and development, they strive to address pressing environmental challenges while also supporting community prosperity. The organization's vision is a future where both natural and human communities thrive together, ensuring that the natural world is conserved for future generations while current communities benefit from sustainable development.Key Initiatives1. Land Conservation:The Conservation Fund works to protect landscapes critical to the health of America's natural environment. This includes preserving forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats. They acquire land to protect it from development and work with government agencies and private partners to ensure its long-term stewardship.2. Working Lands:Recognizing that productive land use and conservation can go hand in hand, The Conservation Fund supports working forests, farms, and ranches. By promoting sustainable practices, they help landowners manage their lands in ways that support both economic livelihoods and environmental health.3. Community Development:The organization focuses on enhancing community resilience through sustainable development projects. This includes creating parks and green spaces in urban areas, revitalizing historic landmarks, and supporting local economies through eco-friendly tourism and recreation initiatives.4. Waterways and Coasts:The Conservation Fund is dedicated to protecting America's rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They work to preserve water quality and safeguard critical aquatic ecosystems, ensuring that water resources are managed sustainably for both people and wildlife.5. Climate Solutions:Addressing climate change is a core focus of The Conservation Fund. They implement projects that sequester carbon, restore ecosystems, and promote renewable energy. By integrating climate resilience into their conservation strategies, they help mitigate the impacts of climate change on natural and human communities.Impact and AchievementsSince its inception, The Conservation Fund has protected over 8 million acres of land across the United States. Their innovative approach to conservation finance has enabled them to leverage private, public, and philanthropic investments to achieve significant conservation outcomes. Key achievements include: • Large-scale land acquisitions: Preserving vast tracts of forestland and critical habitats. • Urban green space creation: Transforming underutilized urban areas into community parks and recreational spaces. • Economic benefits: Supporting local economies through eco-friendly initiatives that create jobs and boost tourism. • Climate action: Implementing projects that have sequestered millions of tons of carbon dioxide.CauseartistOur mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.⏺ Weekly Podcasts⏺ Weekly Newsletter⏺ Deep Dive Interviews⏺ Community(coming soon)To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

In episode 74 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Scott Saslow, Founder of ONE WORLD Investments, on his journey into impact and sustainable investing, family offices, and his new book.About Scott:Scott is an accomplished entrepreneur and impact investor with a proven track record of developing successful businesses and products. He is the founder ONE WORLD Investments, and had key roles at The Institute of Executive Development, Microsoft, and Siebel Systems, among others.Scott is the author of the book, "Building a Sustainable Family Office: An Insider's Guide to What Works and What Doesn't," published by Greenleaf Publishing Group and available on Amazon.As an impact investor, advisor, and consultant, Scott works with both for-profit and non-profit social enterprises. He founded ONE WORLD Investments, an organization that provides training and investment capital to social impact enterprises in the Bay Area, aimed at improving lives globally.About ONE WORLD Investments:ONE WORLD Investments leverages its Silicon Valley base to offer innovative and profitable approaches to increasing social impact. The organization supports a diverse network of entrepreneurs, investors, and corporate professionals, and provides capital through various investment vehicles to early-stage companies, impact private equity and venture capital funds, and public markets, all aimed at scaling social impact.About the episode:Scott discusses his journey into impact investing and the importance of building sustainable family offices. He explains that family offices are the infrastructure created to manage wealth and philanthropy for wealthy individuals and families. However, many family offices are not sustainable and fail during generational transitions.Scott emphasizes the need for a new model in managing family offices to ensure their longevity and impact. He also explores the role of family offices in impact investing and the ripple effect their failures can have on society.Family offices are increasingly interested in sustainable and impact investing, but many are still in the early stages of incorporating these strategies. The younger generation within family offices is often the driving force behind these initiatives, as they have a socially minded approach and a desire to make a positive impact.While many family offices already engage in philanthropy, there is an opportunity to go beyond traditional giving and use investment capital to address social and environmental concerns. The change towards more sustainable and impact-focused family offices can come from both the principles themselves and the non-family professionals they work with.This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

This week, let's chat about how to make your money work for both you and the world. From environmental sustainability to gender equality, learn how to screen out harmful companies and support those actively solving societal issues. Let's also talk about how to leverage your shareholder voice to drive positive change. Tune in for actionable tips on making your investments a force for good while still keeping an eye on returns.Links from today's episode:Sustainable Investing: An ESG Starter Kit for Everyday Investors by Kylelane Purcell and Ben Vivarihttps://www.businessexpertpress.com/books/sustainable-investing-an-esg-starter-kit-for-everyday-investors/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode#124 What to ask a financial planner if you want them to consider your societal valuesConnect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the Show.

In episode 73 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Andrea and Jessica La Mesa, co-CEOs of The Life You Can Save, on their journey into the philanthropic sector and the mission of the organization. Since 2013, the organization has catalyzed $100 million in donations to high-impact charities.They share their backgrounds and how they transitioned from their previous careers to dedicating their time to philanthropy.The Life You Can Save focuses on connecting donors with effective nonprofits in the global health and development space.They curate a list of organizations that have been independently verified and offer donors confidence in the impact of their donations.The La Mesas emphasize the importance of strategic and evidence-based philanthropy and the need for ongoing funding partnerships with nonprofits.About The Life You Can SaveThe Life You Can Save was founded in 2013 by philosopher Peter Singer and former executive Charlie Bresler. The organization was born out of Charlie Bresler's personal quest for impact, inspired by Peter Singer's book The Life You Can Save. Charlie, a psychologist and business executive, reached out to Peter, and together they formed an organization dedicated to spreading Peter's ideas and encouraging effective philanthropy.Over the past decade, their collaboration has inspired global change, resulting in over $100 million in donations to high-impact charities.

In Episode 72 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Alix Lebec, Founder & CEO of LEBEC, on helping visionary founders, funders, and investors maximize value creation and scale solutions that address the world's most pressing challenges.LEBEC is a pioneering women-owned and led firm that specializes in innovative finance and philanthropy. With a strong presence in both the U.S. and Europe, LEBEC is dedicated to helping visionary founders, funders, and investors maximize value creation and scale solutions that address the world's most pressing challenges.About AlixFor over 20 years, Alix Lebec has been advising and growing organizations across the philanthropy and sustainable finance ecosystem.As a member of the founding and executive leadership team at WaterEquity, alongside co-founders Gary White and Matt Damon, Alix spent the past decade building this high-performing global asset manager that invests in water, women, and sanitation in emerging markets.She has also worked at the World Bank in Paris and Southeast Asia, the Clinton Global Initiative, and Water.org, where she mobilized $260 million in capital and built winning teams.In 2020, Alix launched LEBEC to support philanthropists, investors, and entrepreneurs worldwide and to shape a paradigm shift in our global financial ecosystem. She is also a Limited Partner and impact advisor at Polymath Ventures, a member of 100 Women in Finance, and a co-founder of the World Climate Tech Summit in Miami.Alix serves on the Board of iDE Global and is a regular media contributor on philanthropy, innovative finance, and investing in women in emerging markets.Catalytic Philanthropy: Accelerating ImpactIn this interview, Alix emphasizes the concept of catalytic philanthropy—a method that accelerates impact by leveraging philanthropic funds in innovative ways.She identifies key strategies for philanthropists and investors to dramatically increase their impact beyond writing a check:Guarantee First Loss: Utilize philanthropic funds as a cushion for investors, encouraging them to engage in high-impact projects.Engage in Impact Investing: Direct capital towards ventures that not only promise financial returns but also generate social and environmental benefits.Foster Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships: Collaborate across sectors to pool resources, expertise, and networks, maximizing the scale and sustainability of interventions.Measure and Manage Impact: Employ robust impact measurement and management practices to ensure transparency and guide continuous improvement.Reimagining Global Capital Markets for GoodAt Lebec, the belief is that it's critical to think bigger and reimagine how global capital markets can be a force for good—with the goal of unleashing systems change.The opportunities to donate, invest, and do business in a sustainable manner are vast, ranging from achieving gender, racial, and income equality; addressing climate change; solving the global water crisis; elevating dance and the arts; to ensuring quality education and healthcare for all.

In Episode 71 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Kirsten Dueck, CEO of NESsT, on breaking the cycle of poverty by investing front-line entrepreneurs.About KirstenAs the CEO of NESsT, Kirsten Dueck fosters trust-based relationships to accelerate impact for corporate, philanthropic, nonprofit, and community stakeholders. In her role, she drives strategy and operations for a leading global impact investor and venture philanthropist.As CEO of NESsT, she drives strategy and operations for a leading global impact investor and venture philanthropist that has invested more than $30M and trained and supported over 30,000 entrepreneurs across 50 countries, accelerated and financed 243 enterprises sustaining more than 100,000 formal jobs and improving the lives of 1.6million people from the most marginalized communities around the world.Addressing the Urgency of PovertySince its inception in 1997, NESsT has been investing in front-line entrepreneurs, catalyzing impact-driven enterprises, and shaping sustainable and equitable futures, especially in emerging market countries.A significant portion of the global population still grapples with extreme or moderate poverty, while nearly half face low incomes and challenging working conditions.NESsT recognizes the inherent dignity in providing access to good jobs and reliable income, not just as a means of sustenance but as pathways to empowerment and community upliftment.Invest, Accelerate, Transform: NESsT's ApproachNESsT's strategy revolves around three core pillars:Invest, Accelerate, and Transform.By leveraging donations and patient capital, NESsT channels resources into social enterprises that prioritize creating dignified jobs for those most in need.These investments are not merely financial; NESsT commits to these enterprises for several years, offering tailored financing and hands-on business development support to navigate the challenges of scaling.Through this dedicated support, NESsT empowers social entrepreneurs to not only build successful businesses but also to transform communities.By providing essential skills, technology, and ongoing support, these enterprises become catalysts for sustainable change, fostering economic resilience and fostering dignity.The Power of Social EnterprisesAt the heart of NESsT's philosophy lies the recognition of the unique role that social enterprises play in driving positive change.Unlike traditional businesses, social enterprises are deeply embedded within their communities, earning trust and understanding local needs intimately.They align their business interests with the well-being of their communities, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and sustainable

In episode, I speak with Brett Hagler, CEO and Co-founder, of New Story Homes, on using philanthropy and market-based solutions to solve the global housing crisis.The global housing crisis is a staggering issue, affecting 1.6 billion people who live without adequate housing. This crisis stifles the potential of millions of families, particularly women and children, across the globe.New Story Homes, a nonprofit organization, has set out to tackle this problem through a unique blend of philanthropy and market-based solutions.By integrating innovative technology with community-focused strategies, New Story Homes is revolutionizing the path to homeownership for vulnerable families.TakeawaysNew Story's journey began with a mission to help vulnerable families access life-changing housing, leading to a decade-long evolution of its strategy and model.The transition to a market-based solution involved challenges, resistance, and a two-year metamorphosis, resulting in a hybrid model that combines philanthropy with profitable financing and lending.The future of New Story involves executing its model to attract large pools of capital, focusing on creating a product that customers love, and building a track record for accessing significant funding.The conversation highlights the potential of market-based solutions in the nonprofit sector and the importance of addressing important social problems through innovative approaches.Sound Bites"I think you learn by doing.""I would love to try to help as many people as possible have life-changing housing."Empowering Through Land OwnershipAt the heart of New Story Homes' mission is the concept of land ownership. In many parts of Latin America, securing land is the first critical step towards economic stability and homeownership. New Story Homes helps families purchase land, build creditworthiness, and unlock home financing. This approach shifts families from being mere beneficiaries of charity to active participants in their journey out of poverty.By developing and selling land equipped with essential municipal utilities—water, sewage, electricity, and roads—at affordable monthly rates, New Story Homes ensures that these properties are not only accessible but also sustainable and integrated into the local urban context.Innovative Housing SolutionsOne of the standout innovations of New Story Homes is the use of 3D printing technology to build homes quickly and cost-effectively.This method significantly reduces construction time and expenses compared to traditional building techniques, making it possible to provide immediate relief to families in need.Beyond construction, New Story Homes focuses on the entire community-building process, developing housing products that meet the unique demands of local regions.Families can use their land as collateral to secure first-time home financing, allowing them to either purchase one of New Story's housing prototypes or self-build the home that best suits their needs.The Role of Philanthropy and Impact InvestmentsNew Story Homes recognizes that addressing the housing crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in funding the initial stages of projects, allowing the organization to acquire land and develop infrastructure.However, to achieve scalable impact, New Story Homes pairs philanthropic funds with impact investments.This blend enables the organization to extend its reach further down the market, serving families who are often excluded from traditional housing solutions.By focusing on sustainable, market-based solutions, New Story Homes ensures that its initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term economic growth and stability in the communities it serves.Success and Future InnovationsThe success of New Story Homes can be seen in the thousands of families who now live in safe, affordable homes in countries like Haiti, El Salvador, Mexico, and Bolivia. Each project is a testament to the power of innovation and community collaboration in solving one of the world's most pressing social issues.Looking ahead, New Story Homes continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in affordable housing, exploring new technologies and strategies to further reduce costs and increase the speed of home construction.

In Episode 70 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Zoila Jennings, Impact Investment Lead at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, on poverty alleviation and systems change through targeted community financing.Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here.This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.Sound Bites"The limit does not exist in philanthropy. I think with banks, they're highly regulated, and it does limit what they can do in terms of flexible financing.""We're a systems level investor. So I don't say, oh, I'm focused on housing or small business. On the community development side, I say, where is the capital now going and where are places that we should really pilot, test, bring in other investors to join."About ZoilaZoila Jennings joined the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in 2021, bringing her career focus on social justice and poverty alleviation—through targeted community financing—to her role as an impact investments officer. Prior to this, Zoila served as a senior relationship manager with U.S. Bank, the fifth largest commercial bank in the United States, as part of its Community Development Corporation.In this position, she sourced, structured, and underwrote loans and equity investments for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). She also developed and executed investment initiatives aimed at addressing racial inequities, including a $25 million fund to support women of color microbusiness owners and the first CDFI-issued racial equity bond for targeted investments in underserved communities of color.Before joining U.S. Bank, Zoila spent a decade at JPMorgan Chase in New York, taking on various roles, including vice president for Community Development-New Markets Tax Credits.Here, she utilized tax equity to structure community development transactions. As a credit underwriter, she managed a credit portfolio that encompassed lending, from small working capital lines to large syndicated tax-exempt debt obligations, to nonprofit hospitals, higher education institutions, and social services agencies.In other roles, she founded a consulting firm specializing in credit underwriting, loan structuring, and financial due diligence for loans and investments benefiting low-income communities.Zoila holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management and a BS in Business Economics with a concentration in Catholic Studies from Fordham University.The Robert Wood Johnson FoundationThe Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) is a force in the realm of philanthropy, employing a multifaceted approach that includes grantmaking, policy change, and impact investing to dismantle barriers to health and wellbeing.At the heart of RWJF's mission is the belief that everyone in the U.S. should have the opportunity to live their healthiest life possible. Achieving this goal requires equitable capital flow to communities historically deprived of investment due to generations of racist policies and structural racism.About RWJF Impact InvestmentsRWJF stands as a national leader in philanthropy, committed to transforming health across the nation within our lifetime. Through impact investments—which encompass deposits, loans, equity investments, and guarantees—RWJF collaborates with both public and private sector investors to channel more capital into underinvested communities.The foundation's vision encompasses flourishing communities where clean, safe drinking water and stable housing are accessible to all, jobs pay a living wage, and everyone has a fair chance to thrive.Since 2010, RWJF has allocated $625 million to impact investments, addressing structural barriers that perpetuate health inequities.These barriers include historical and ongoing disinvestment in housing, jobs, water infrastructure, and other critical community conditions. RWJF's investments target improving health and economic opportunities for communities, small business owners, and households that have historically faced a lack of investment, such as rural communities, communities of color, and low-income communities.RWJF aims to attract or "leverage" $1 billion from other investors—including banks, commercial lenders, insurance companies, and private investors—by 2025 to further this mission.

In Episode 69 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Alasdair Maclay, Chief Strategy Officer at GSG Impact, on impact data and strategic leadership in Impact Investing.About AlasdairAlasdair Maclay is the Chief Strategy Officer at GSG Impact, where he serves on the Executive Committee and oversees the organization's strategy, communications, development, and funding.From 2014 to 2019, Alasdair was the Director of Strategy at the Rhodes Trust, where he led philanthropic fundraising efforts totaling over £300 million, facilitated international expansion across Africa and Asia, and established strategic operating partnerships.With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Alasdair has specialized in emerging markets investment. His career includes a significant tenure at Actis, an emerging markets private equity fund manager, after joining CDC. He also worked for Sovereign Capital, a UK private equity firm, and Bain and Company, a global consulting firm.Alasdair holds an MBA from INSEAD and a joint honours degree in Russian and Czech language and literature from the University of Oxford.An active impact investor and entrepreneur, Alasdair is committed to achieving environmental and social outcomes.Our DiscussionThe conversation covers Alasdair Maclay's journey into impact investing, the work of GSG Impact, and the concept of impact valuation.It delves into the challenges and opportunities of impact investing, the role of blended finance, and the vision for a new economic system where impact is at the heart of every decision.The discussion also explores the use of impact valuation in making investment decisions and the potential for transparency in impact data through barcodes and consumer apps.The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to impact accounting, government policies, financial incentives, and the future of impact investing.It explores the challenges and opportunities in driving better outcomes for people and the planet, with a focus on the role of governments, financial markets, and local interventions.The discussion also highlights the importance of mandatory impact accounting, capital mobilization in emerging markets, and the need for collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable impact.TakeawaysAlasdair Maclay's journey from private equity to impact investing highlights the shift towards investment with purpose and the focus on driving positive impact alongside financial returns.The concept of impact valuation and the use of blended finance as tools to attract private capital for positive impact are key aspects of the conversation.The vision for a new economic system where impact is at the heart of every decision and the potential for impact transparency through barcodes and consumer apps reflect the evolving landscape of impact investing and sustainability.The discussion emphasizes the importance of consistent impact data, the role of asset owners and asset managers in driving impact valuation, and the potential for impact accounting to become mandatory for businesses. The importance of data to inform impact-led decisionsChallenges and opportunities in transitioning to a greener economyThe role of financial incentives in driving positive behaviors and impactThe significance of local interventions and sustainable solutionsThe need for mandatory impact accounting and harmonized reporting standardsThe potential for increased capital flow into emerging markets and its impact on economic growthSound Bites"I think blended finance is one of the tools that can be used to attract private capital.""Our vision is an economic system where impact is at the heart of every investment, government, consumer spending decision.""Data to help inform impact-led decisions""The value of local intervention by people on the ground"

This week, host GG Gimja will share the simple process she used to move her investments to a more socially responsible index fund.Links from today's episode:How to choose the best index fund | Forbeshttps://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/how-to-choose-the-best-index-fund/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode 76 The Surprising Truth About What ESG Investing Actually Means (recorded before the 2024 rebranding of this show)Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.The information provided in this podcast is for general entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial advice. We make no guarantees about the accuracy or applicability of the content. Consult a qualified financial professional before making any investment or financial planning decisions.Support the Show.

In this episode, I speak with Hardika Shah, Founder and CEO of Kinara Capital, on transforming lives and local economies, by providing access to capital for small business entrepreneurs.Armed with a mission to empower the 70 million small business entrepreneurs in the country, Kinara has embarked on a journey to provide fast and flexible collateral-free business loans. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a dedication to customer service, Kinara Capital revolutionized the lending landscape with its digital processes and doorstep assistance.Over the years, the company has disbursed more than $300 million to over 40,000 small business entrepreneurs, ushering thousands into the realm of financial inclusion. This transformative journey has not only created jobs and spurred economic growth but has also generated over $100 million in incremental income for MSMEs across India.Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Hardika honed her skills as a management consultant, working on projects for global companies across the USA, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Her passion for social impact led her to devote nearly a decade to mentoring emerging social entrepreneurs.At Kinara Capital, the mission is clear: to transform lives, livelihoods, and local economies by providing access to capital for every entrepreneur. With a vision of a financially inclusive world, Hardika and her team continue to pave the way for a brighter future for small business entrepreneurs across India.I hope you enjoy the conversation, until next time, stay humble and stay creative.Welcome to Causeartist.Social Entrepreneurs Interviews.Impact Investor Interviews.Impact Startup News.Our mission is to empower and inspire social entrepreneurs, impact investors, impact professionals, and conscious consumers, who are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and regenerative world.To learn more, please visit causeartist.com.

Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here.This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------In Episode 68 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Robert Keith, the Founder and Managing Principal of Beartooth, on how environmental stewardship can be synonymous with financial gains.Robert holds a strong belief that the diverse financial tools and innovative growth/exit strategies available to small business owners should also be accessible to ranch owners. With this vision, he co-founded Beartooth in 2005 to empower ranchers with these resources.In his role at Beartooth, Robert oversees all operations, with a particular emphasis on cultivating meaningful relationships in capital sourcing, investment structuring, and management.Before establishing Beartooth, Robert gained valuable experience at various financial institutions, including an agricultural investment company, a private equity investment firm, and Morgan Stanley, an investment bank. He holds a degree in Economics from Yale University and a business degree from Stanford University.Despite his academic and professional pursuits, Robert consistently found himself drawn back to his family's ranch near Cody, Wyoming. Eventually, he made the decision to cease commuting to coastal regions for work and instead founded Beartooth to pursue his passion for supporting ranchers and their communities.About BeartoothBeartooth Group is a Bozeman-based conservation investment firm. Founded in 2004, Beartooth partners with ranch sellers, owners, investors, and buyers to restore and steward the lands, waters, and wildlife of the American West. Beartooth does this by crafting creative solutions to conservation and economic challenges.

In Episode 67 of the Investing in Impact podcast, I speak with Erin Siestra, Head of Investments at Hopelab Ventures, on her journey, Health Tech, Medicare startups, and the mission and vision of Hopelab.Erin is responsible for the development and oversight of Hopelab's work investing in organizations and companies that aim to improve the health and well-being of teens and young adults. In her role, she sources, executes, and manages investments, positioning Hopelab as both a financial and a strategic partner to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators.As a social impact investor, Hopelab Ventures invests in companies that support the mental health and well-being of adolescents, particularly in underserved communities. The organization backs founders with lived experience related to the youth and mental health topics it supports. The team believes those founders are uniquely equipped to develop effective solutions.Hopelab Ventures' investment approach combines early-stage capital with expertise in research, design, youth co-creation, and payment models to support the development and adoption of better, more diverse, and accessible mental health and well-being solutions for young people at scale.When you get a chance, please share, rate, and subscribe to the podcast. Enjoy the interview.

Hi everyone, this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to this weeks Investing in Impact Brief. This week showcases some significant capital injections into the fields of climate tech and affordable housing.In our first piece of news, Satgana, a venture capital firm prioritizing climate tech solutions, has completed the final close of its first fund. Falling short of its €30 million target due to challenging fundraising conditions for first-time fund managers, they've nevertheless accrued €8 million. The company plans to back up to 30 early-stage climate-tech startups in Africa and Europe.Moving along, we look at New Summit Investments, which has entered the fundraising arena with ambitions to raise a new $100 million impact fund. Signaling a robust confidence in the continuous attractiveness of environmental and social impact ventures, New Summit's latest fund represents a significant leap from their previous $40 million.Up next, the state of Texas makes headlines with its bold decision to sever ties with BlackRock, withdrawing a massive $8.5 billion in assets. At the heart of the matter is the controversial and increasingly politicized ESG investing strategy. While ESG principles have been praised for promoting sustainability, Texas officials are pushing back, viewing it as an ideological maneuver that jeopardizes the traditional energy sectors.Lastly, we report on ABP, one of the largest global pension funds. They have declared a reduction in investments that significantly affect the climate, aiming to allocate more capital to companies and projects that are socially and environmentally positive. The Dutch fund, managing approximately 502 billion euros ($545 billion), intends to invest a minimum of 30 billion euros in "impact investments" by 2030, particularly in affordable and sustainable housing and energy projects.Connect with GrantConnect with Causeartist 

Hi everyone, this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to the Investing in Impact Brief. This week showcases some significant capital injections into the fields of climate technology and regenerative agriculture.First up, Montauk Climate, a new incubator committed to pioneering climate, infrastructure, and energy solutions, has made headlines with an $8.5 million launch. The incubator is set on assembling the finest tech minds to spur the transition to a sustainable, electrified future. Their focus is on harnessing experienced talent to turn innovative technologies into scalable companies.In the agriculture sector, The Rockefeller Foundation joins Mad Capital's Perennial Fund II with a focus on expanding regenerative organic farming. They've invested $50 million to support American farmers aiming for both ecological and financial strength. With less than 1% of U.S. farmland certified organic, access to capital stands as a formidable barrier. Funds like Perennial Fund II are integral to meeting the spike in  consumer demand for regenerative organic products.  Since its advent in 2019, Mad Capital has committed over $25 million to 30 farmers, supporting more than 10,500 acres transition to organic.In other developments within the climate technology sector, Silence, an innovative venture capital firm specializing in climate technology, has unveiled its strategy to support environmental initiatives. Their investment fund, totaling $35 million, oversees a diverse portfolio encompassing virtual power plants and circular economy marketplaces.Moving to Asia, where Fullerton Fund Management has attracted $100 million in their quest to accelerate decarbonization across emerging markets. The fund explicitly targets investments in companies that are not only committed to but are also actively lowering their carbon footprint. This initiative represents a concrete effort in aligning financial growth with environmental responsibility, an essential consideration in today's impact investment landscape.Engaging primarily with Asian companies, the Fullerton Carbon Action Fund has a unique strategy. It concentrates on a specific niche in the market that has so far been underserved: businesses with high carbon emissions that are on a clear trajectory towards reducing their environmental impact. It's about fueling the transition of these companies, and effectively, the industry at large.Finally, we arrive in Brussels, where World Fund has grown to 300 million euros. This venture capital firm is dedicated to supporting startups that develop technologies to combat climate change. Even with economic turmoil affecting private equity, major players like BPI France and PWC Germany have invested in World Fund, signaling a strong conviction in the dual potential of profitable investments and environmental benefits.Thank you for tuning in. Until next time, stay humble and stay creative. 

What's up everybody this is Grant at Causeartist, welcome to the Investing in Impact podcast, where we interview Impact Investors, General Partners, and Family Offices from around the world.Each week conversations will bring on industry insiders to discuss the latest news, topics, and trends in impact investing.My apologies for the delay on new episodes, but the Investing in Impact podcast is back with weekly episodes this year! And when there's big news in the industry, I'll be hopping in with quick updates on those interesting topics.As always, if you have any questions or thoughts, shoot me an email at grant@causeartist.com.In Episode 66 of the Investing in Impact podcast, Causeartist contributor, Rafael Aldon, speaks with Anshul Magotra, cofounder and partner at Social Innovation Circle. Anshul shares her journey from a career in banking to working in the impact venture sector.She also talks about how she stumbled into the world of social innovation through volunteering at Ashoka, where she discovered the power of social entrepreneurs and their innovative solutions.This experience led Anshul to co-found Social Innovation Circle, an organization that supports social entrepreneurs and impact investors. Anshul emphasizes the importance of funding for social entrepreneurs and the need for expertise in finance and business to help them scale their impact.She also highlights the role of angel investors and the creation of a syndicate to increase the flow of capital into social enterprises. Anshul also touches on their unique business model, which revolves around coaching, capital, concepts, and community.When you get a chance, please share, rate, and subscribe to the podcast. Enjoy the interview.

Every dollar you spend is a vote. Every dollar you invest or save is also a vote. How can you make sure that the companies you support also support an agenda and a world vision that you agree with? And just what should you look for when trying to decide where to place your money? Join Annie and Jay Warmke of Blue Rock Station as they speak with Michelle Wilson, Financial Planner and owner of Athens Impact Socially Responsible Investments as they discuss the evils and advantages of money.

The transition from traditional investment in energy production to renewable energy represents a significant shift in addressing climate change challenges.To help us understand the intricacies of investing in renewables and utility-scale battery energy storage systems, I am joined by Ben Guest, the Managing Director of Gresham House New Energy Division.Ben has over 29 years of investment experience that spans the investment spectrum across infrastructure, technology, public equities, and venture capital asset classes.He has been a pioneer investor in battery energy storage systems since the early development days of the sector.Ben's upbringing was truly global, with parents from Argentina and Africa, leading to diverse educational experiences in France, Japan, Sweden, and the UK.  He holds a BEng in Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College.Beginning his fund management career in 1994 at Lazard Asset Management, Ben later founded Hazel Capital in 2007. The acquisition of Hazel Capital in 2017 transformed it into Gresham House New Energy Division, where Ben manages substantial assets, including the Gresham House Energy Storage Fund Plc.The conversation delves into Ben's expertise—in the renewable energy sector, particularly battery energy storage systems. He discusses the challenges of real-time supply and demand balancing, highlighting the vital role batteries can play in not only stabilizing the grid but also providing the key to transitioning the electrical grid to predominately renewable energy.Ben breaks down the complexities of battery energy storage systems revenue models, addressing challenges posed by supply and demand fluctuations. He also shares his thoughts on the future of renewable energy infrastructure, emphasizing sustainability, carbon emissions reduction through battery energy storage systems, and the evolving landscape of the energy transition.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Ben as much as I did!Show notes: https://sri360.com/podcast/ben-guest/ 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.Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on X/TwitterFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK Key TakeawaysIntro (00:00)Ben Guest's background and career path (02:24)The shift from traditional to sustainable energy investments (15:24)The role of battery storage in renewable energy (38:32)Energy trading and battery management (47:22)Assembling project rights for energy storage infrastructure (52:23)Renewable energy investments and impact metrics (59:55)Primary investors at Gresham House (01:05:58)Risks facing battery energy storage systems investments (01:10:18)Challenges around battery production and usage (01:15:10)Additional ResourcesBen Guest's LinkedInGresham HouseGresham House New EnergyLazard Asset ManagementHazel Capital InvestmentCantillon Capital Management LLP

In this episode, I speak with Paul Miller, Managing Partner and CEO at Bethnal Green Ventures, which has invested in over 150 startups that aim to create a more sustainable planet, an inclusive society, and healthy lives. Paul is a trailblazer who spearheaded early-stage impact venture capital investing in the early 2010s at a time when this was highly unusual for VCs to do.He was awarded an Officer of the British Empire award for services to startup investment in 2020.Miller's early exposure to social and environmental issues, thanks to his parents' activism, laid the foundation for a unique perspective later in his career. His stint as a policy advisor at Forum for the Future marked a pivotal period, working on sustainability with tech giants like Amazon and Vodafone.This experience fueled a desire for a more direct impact, leading Miller to venture into the startup scene. In 2006, the School of Everything was born – a groundbreaking attempt to revolutionize adult education. Around 2012, as the School of Everything continued to pioneer adult education, Miller's focus expanded to co-founding Bethnal Green Ventures. Securing an initial investment of approximately £150,000 from Nesta, a UK foundation, Bethnal Green Ventures took flight.Google provided office space, and the venture attracted mentors and contacts to nurture the startups. Paul's venture into impact venture capital with Bethnal Green Ventures was a pioneering move, especially considering the prevailing industry norms around 2012.At a time when impact investing was in its nascent stages, Paul brought a level of authenticity and maturity to the venture capital landscape.Today, he'll be taking us through his 'Tech for Good' approach, investing in early-stage companies aiming for both high growth and positive social or environmental impact.I hope you enjoy my conversation with Paul as much as I did! Show notes: https://sri360.com/podcast/paul-miller/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.Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on X/TwitterFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOK Key TakeawaysIntro (00:00)Paul Miller's academic and professional background (04:29)How Bethnal Green Ventures came about (20:18)Bring a level of authenticity and maturity to venture capital (23:36)An overview of Bethnal Green Ventures (29:33)Tech for Good  Concept (32:22)Theory of Change at Bethnal  (35:00)Impact VC Vs. other impact investing (37:59)Examples of impact investments by Bethnal (50:09)Measuring impact at early-stage businesses (58:38)Role of AI in Tech for Good paradigm (1:08:41) Additional ResourcesBethnal Green VenturesBethnal Green Ventures on LinkedInBethnal Green Ventures on TwitterPaul Miller's LinkedInSchool of EverythingForum for the FutureDemos

Thinking about dipping your toe into ESG investing or socially responsible investing? What are the pros and cons? Tune in this week to find out!Link from today's episode:Pros and Cons of ESG Fundshttps://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/pros-and-cons-of-esg-funds/Support the show

In the fast-evolving world of impact investing, few individuals stand out as prominently as Michael O'Leary. Recently appointed as a Partner and Co-Head of L Catterton Impact Fund, Michael has a wealth of experience and a compelling vision for responsible capitalism.Formerly a Managing Director at Engine No. 1, Michael made headlines globally by orchestrating one of the most successful impact-focused activism campaigns in history.Despite holding a mere 0.02% of share capital, Engine No. 1 successfully replaced three members of Exxon's board, underscoring the potency of impact activism.He was also on the founding team of Bain Capital's impact fund and invested in consumer, industrial, and technology companies through Bain Capital's private equity fund.Now, at L Catterton, one of the world's foremost private equity funds specializing in consumer brands, Michael leads the charge in integrating sustainability and impact considerations into the firm's investments. Michael's co-authorship of 'Accountable: The Rise of Citizen Capitalism' further illustrates his commitment to shaping the future of capitalism. The book delves into the promises and challenges of the sustainable investing movement.With a solid educational background, including a BA in Philosophy from Harvard University and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, Michael combines academic rigor with real-world impact. In this episode, he shared a lot of insights into- Shareholder activism for sustainability and development- Citizen capitalism- Impact investing in the public markets- Impact investing in the consumer sector- And much more.I really learned a lot from my discussion with Michael, and I hope you will too!Show notes: https://sri360.com/podcast/michael-oleary/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. Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on X/TwitterFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOKKey TakeawaysIntro (00:00)Michael O'Leary's background (01:43)Impact investment thesis (11:44)Citizen Capitalism  (14:14)Exxon shareholder activism campaign (30:36)Using shareholder activism for long-term sustainable development (47:33)Does impact investing have any impact on public markets (50:43)Impact investing in the consumer sector (57:22)The biggest challenge to impact investing (01:16:45)Additional ResourcesMichael O'Leary's LinkedInL Catterton Website Accountable: The Rise of Citizen Capitalism Book and Featured PublicationsOther Links MentionedBain CapitalEngine No. 1Deval PatrickWarren ValdmanisExxonAn ESG Reckoning Is Coming

In this episode, I am joined by Harald Walkate. Harald isn't just another voice in the sustainability space. He's a seasoned navigator, guiding us across the complex landscape of ESG and impact investing.With 25 years of experience, he's seen both sides of the table, working with major asset managers and corporations. This unique perspective fuels his passion for bridging the gap between good intentions and real-world impact. He's a champion of blended finance, a powerful tool that blends public and private resources to tackle urgent challenges like climate change and poverty.Born in Leiden, Netherlands, Harald Walkate studied law at Leiden University, later venturing into corporate law at Allen & Overy. After obtaining an MBA from the University of Chicago, Harald moved into business development at Bally Total Fitness, then shifted to Aegon, focusing on mergers and acquisitions.At Aegon, he became the Global Head of Responsible Investment, leading to a move to Natixis in 2019 as the Head of ESG. In 2022, he founded Finding Ways Ahead, and in 2023, he initiated Route 17, an SDG funding & blended finance advisory firm.In this enlightening conversation, we explore Harald's insights on ESG, impact investing, and the often misunderstood realm of blended finance.Show notes: https://sri360.com/podcast/harald-walkate/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.Connect with SRI360°:Sign up for the free weekly email updateVisit the SRI360° PODCASTVisit the SRI360° WEBSITEFollow SRI360° on X/TwitterFollow SRI360° on FACEBOOKKey TakeawaysIntro (00:00)Harald Walkate's career journey (02:17)How impact investing can make a difference (14:54)Appreciation of the global financial markets (21:43)Topics most misunderstood in ESG and impact investing (26:27)ESG investing in the US (30:24)The best evidence that the EGS toolkit enhances return (34:35)Measuring the real-world impact of ESG investing (40:14)Sustainable finance vs financing sustainability (43:38)Blended finance for sustainable investing (01:04:51)Additional ResourcesHarald Walkate's LinkedInRoute17 WebsiteFinding Ways AheadOther Links MentionedAllen and OveryBally Total FitnessAegon Asset ManagementNatixisCenter for Sustainable Finance and Private WealthUniversity of Chicago Booth School of BusinessFinancial Conduct AuthorityMarc AndreessenRobert W. van ZwietenJean Raby10 things every investor should know about Net Zero

Andy Loving is the founder of Just Money Advisors, a financial advising firm that specializes in working with clients who have strong interests in socially responsible and ecologically sustainable investing. This conversation delves into the complicated role that money plays in our lives and how spiritual values can inspire us to use money and investing as tools for bringing about the more beautiful world that our hearts know is possible. RESOURCES AND LINKS: Donate to support the Earth & Spirit Center and this podcast: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/donate/ Visit the Earth & Spirit Center homepage: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/ Just Money Advisors Inc.: https://www.justmoneyadvisors.com/ Hope Credit Union: https://hopecu.org/ Faith and Money Network: https://faithandmoneynetwork.org/ Church of the Saviour in Washington, DC: https://inwardoutward.org/ Koinonia Farm: https://www.koinoniafarm.org/

Feel free to book a call and plan how to reach your time-freedom point faster.Visit us at idealinvestorshow.comStart taking action right NOW!Goal-setting the right way! Hesitant to make the first step toward real estate investing? Axel learned the hard way- but you DON'T have to start that way. Feel free to talk to him :)Connect with us through social! We'd love to build a community of like-minded people like YOU!Support the show

Sign up here for updates on impactinvestor.ioThanks to all the Causeartist Partners - Check them out here.Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here.This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.----------------------------------------Addy is a dynamic Investment Manager at Regenerate Ventures, focusing on fundraising, deal flow, and portfolio management. With her diverse experience across agri-tech, VC, and regenerative agriculture, she excels at bridging the gap between investors and entrepreneurs.Previously, Addy built her own grab-and-go restaurant business in London, giving her valuable insight into the challenges facing startups seeking funding. She leverages this entrepreneurial spirit in her work sourcing and evaluating high-potential investments.Prior to joining Regenerate, Addy held positions at Imprimatur Capital, Forward Food Tech, and Europe's largest regenerative farming project, Wildfarmed. In these roles, she developed specialized skills in agriculture technology, venture capital, and sustainable food systems.Addy thrives on making connections between investors and world-positive startups. With her well-rounded background, she is a trusted partner for building regenerative portfolios.About Regenerate Asset ManagementRegenerate is actively involved in a global network bridging the gap between natural capital and the international finance community. In areas such as sustainable agriculture, the right approach creates opportunities to positively impact the environment while producing high quality food and fiber.Regenerate's agricultural investments focus on improving soil health, which has positive ripple effects on biodiversity, water quality, and farming economics. Through its network, Regenerate is linking the worlds of finance and regeneration to fund scalable and impactful solutions. With a mission to heal the planet, Regenerate makes investments that restore natural systems while delivering competitive financial returns. The company is at the forefront of driving capital towards regenerative projects that benefit both people and planet. ----------------------------------------Sign up here for updates on impactinvestor.ioThanks to all the Causeartist Partners - Check them out here.Subscribe to our Causeartist newsletter here.

In Episode 9 of the Inspired Money Podcast's live stream series, “Investing for Impact: The Rise of Socially Responsible Investing,” hosted by Andy Wang and produced by Bradley Jon Eaglefeather. In this soul-nourishing episode, we are joined by an extraordinary panel of experts—Leo Babauta, Katie Cassidy, Matthias Olt, and Mark Ainley—to guide you through the transformative journey of intentional living and holistic home design. Overview In a world where our surroundings profoundly influence our well-being, this episode serves as a sanctuary of wisdom. Whether you're yearning for a home that aligns with your values, nourishes your soul, or contributes to planetary wellness, this episode is your blueprint for creating spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also soul-satisfying. Segments Segment 1: Sanctuary of Well-Being: Holistic Home Design for Intentional Living and Sustainability Embark on a journey into the realm of holistic home design, where balance, flow, and wellness converge to create a sanctuary that nourishes both body and soul. Segment 2: The 14-Day Minimalism Challenge: Declutter for Health, Happiness, and Purpose Take the transformative path towards a clutter-free life. Discover how minimalism can serve as a tool for enhancing your health, elevating your happiness, and imbuing your life with purpose. Segment 3: Unlocking Mental Well-Being: The Environmental Psychology of Home Design Delve into the fascinating psychology of space. Learn how your home can be a sanctuary that positively shapes your mental well-being and emotional landscape. Segment 4: Eco-Conscious Home Makeover: Energy-Efficient Design & Sustainable Living Practices Uncover the secrets of giving your home an eco-conscious makeover. Learn how energy-efficient design and sustainable practices can make your home a friend to Mother Earth. Segment 5: Creating Mindful Spaces at Home: A Journey into Self-Care and Conscious Living Discover the art of carving out mindful spaces within your home. Learn how these sanctuaries can serve as havens for self-care, mindfulness, and conscious living. Guest Profiles: Leo Babauta: Renowned author and minimalist lifestyle advocate, Leo Babauta's influential blog, “Zen Habits,” has been a beacon of wisdom on simplifying life and embracing minimalism since 2007. Katie Cassidy: Versatile American actress Katie Cassidy, known for her roles in “Supernatural” and “Arrow,” brings a unique perspective on the intersection of art, space, and intentional living. Matthias Olt: Celebrated architect Matthias Olt is a pioneer in integrating modern aesthetics with sustainability, setting new standards for environmentally responsible architecture. Mark Ainley: With two decades dedicated to the practice of Contemporary Feng Shui, Mark Ainley aids individuals in achieving life integration through a modern interpretation of ancient principles. Guest Links: Leo Babauta: https://zenhabits.net Katie Cassidy: https://www.instagram.com/katiecassidy Matthias Olt: https://matthiasolt.com Mark Ainley: https://senseofspace.com

Aloha Inspired Money Makers! In Episode 8 of the Inspired Money Podcast's live stream series, "Investing for Impact: The Rise of Socially Responsible Investing," hosted by Andy Wang and produced by Bradley Jon Eaglefeather. In this transformative episode, we are graced by the wisdom of our esteemed panelists—Debra Schwartz, Laura Ortiz Montemayor, Bruno Bertocci, and Kevin Peterson—as we journey through the realms of ethical investing. Overview In a world where the call for sustainability and social responsibility reverberates louder each day, this episode serves as your guide through the labyrinth of socially responsible investing (SRI), ESG factors, and impact investing. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a novice eager to make a difference, this episode is your compass to navigating investments that not only grow your wealth but also contribute to a better world. Segments Segment 1: The Roots of Socially Responsible Investing: A Journey Through Time Embark on a historical voyage tracing the origins of SRI from religious communities to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. This segment serves as a foundational pillar, illuminating the ethical principles that have shaped this form of investing over the years. Segment 2: ESG Investing: The Alchemy of Metrics, Tools, and AI Step into the future as we delve into Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Investing. Discover the metrics, tools, and even AI-driven analysis that are revolutionizing this sector, turning raw data into golden opportunities. Segment 3: Impact Investing: The Magic of Making a Difference Navigate the transformative world of Impact Investing, where your financial choices ripple through sectors like education, healthcare, and financial inclusion, creating waves of positive change. Segment 4: Values-Driven Investing: Crafting Your Ethical Portfolio Learn the art of Values-Driven Investing, a personalized approach to crafting a portfolio that mirrors your deepest ethical beliefs and personal values. Segment 5: Measuring Impact: The Scales of Financial and Social ROI Conclude your journey with a comprehensive guide to evaluating both financial and social ROI. This segment equips you with the tools to ensure that your investments are not just profitable but also impactful. Guest Profiles: Debra Schwartz: Debra Schwartz, the Managing Director of Impact Investments at the MacArthur Foundation, is a beacon of equity, inclusion, and sustainability. With a commitment exceeding $750 million, she specializes in catalytic capital that ignites transformative change. Laura Ortiz Montemayor: Founder of SVX México, Laura Ortiz Montemayor is on a mission to recalibrate the flow of capital to serve humanity. Her work in impact investment has been a catalyst for social, economic, and environmental justice. Bruno Bertocci: With over four decades of industry experience, Bruno Bertocci, formerly of UBS Asset Management, has been a pioneer in developing public securities impact measurement frameworks and has served on numerous esteemed committees. Kevin Peterson: Kevin Peterson, the Special Projects Manager at the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, has been instrumental in designing a $12 million Impact Investing Program, shaping the future of ethical investment. May this blog article serve as your guide and inspiration in the fascinating world of luxury watches. Mahalo for joining us on this captivating journey! #Inspiredmoney #DebraSchwartz #LauraOrtizMontemayor #BrunoBertocci #SociallyResponsibleInvesting #ESGInvesting #ImpactInvesting #ValuesDrivenInvesting #FinancialFreedom #PositiveChange #EthicalInvesting #SustainableFinance #InvestingForImpact #InspiredMoneyLive #eaglesvision Guest Links: Debra Schwartz: https://macfound.org Laura Ortiz Montemayor: https://www.svx.mx Bruno Bertocci: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruno-bertocci-a6094210 Kevin Peterson: https://nhcdfa.org This blog post is brought to you by Runnymede Capital Management, in collaboration with EaglesVision and the Inspired Money live-stream podcast series.