The Business of Giving

My guest today believes that the greatest barrier to nonprofit fundraising success isn’t money—it’s clarity. Kevin L. Brown is the co-founder of Mighty Ally and the author of Fundable & Findable: The Brand-New Way to Fix Your Nonprofit Fundraising. In this conversation, Kevin explains why most organizations are stuck in a donor-chasing cycle and what it takes to become truly fundable and findable.

If your organization has ever struggled to articulate why you exist or raise the resources you need, this episode may just shift your entire approach.

In this episode of The Business of Giving, I speak with Chip Giller, co-founder of Agog, a groundbreaking philanthropic initiative helping nonprofits explore immersive storytelling through XR, or extended reality.  From Human Rights Watch to Harlem youth programs, Chip’s work is proving that the future of nonprofit communication isn’t just visual—it’s emotional, embodied, and unforgettable.

If you’re rethinking how your organization moves hearts and drives action, this is a conversation you can’t miss.

This is The Business of Giving. I’m your host, Denver Frederick. Today, we’re joined by Jon Kane, President and CEO of CCS Fundraising, a global leader in strategic fundraising consulting. With a career spanning McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and his own advisory firm, Jon has tripled CCS’s size since 2016, blending for-profit expertise with nonprofit impact. So let’s get started with Jon Kane.

Today, I’m delighted  to welcome Jennifer Sirangelo, President and CEO of Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service.

Jennifer is leading a movement to double volunteerism in the United States by 2035. But her vision goes beyond numbers—it’s about helping people rediscover meaning, connection, and purpose. Here’s how she puts it:

Get ready for a conversation about reimagining service as a cultural force that heals, unites, and transforms.

Welcome to The Business of Giving, where we spotlight the people and ideas transforming philanthropy and social impact! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Josh Birkholz, CEO of BWF, the powerhouse consultancy that’s been sparking transformative change since its iconic work on the Statue of Liberty restoration. Josh is a pioneer in data-driven fundraising strategy, co-author of BeneFactors, and one of the most influential voices championing bold, mission-first approaches in modern philanthropy.

In this episode, you’ll discover how to build momentum in uncertain times, leverage donor data effectively, and lead with courageous clarity—essential insights for navigating 2025’s economic challenges. So Let’s get started.

Dien Yuen is the founder of Daylight Advisors, and she’s leading a bold effort to professionalize philanthropic advising by training 10,000 certified experts to guide donors through meaningful, values-aligned giving. In this episode Dien shares why this work is urgent—how shifting wealth, changing demographics, and donor expectations demand a new kind of advisor.

We’ll also explore how collaboration and coaching are unlocking the billions sitting idle in donor-advised funds. If you care about the future of giving, this conversation will open your eyes—and maybe your wallet.

That organization is GlobalGiving, and at its helm is Victoria Vrana, a veteran systems thinker and relentless advocate for community-led change. As the organization’s CEO, she’s navigating one of the most consequential disruptions to global aid in decades.

I mean, shockwave is the right term. I mean, I think it’s like tectonic plates in our sector have shifted really forever.

In this episode, Victoria talks about the real-time impact of the funding collapse, what it reveals about the fragility of traditional aid systems, and why GlobalGiving’s founding vision—connecting private capital directly to grassroots leaders—is more urgent than ever.

It’s a pivotal moment for the sector—and one that calls for bold leadership.

What happens when the very institutions designed to serve the public are systematically dismantled? Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, has dedicated over two decades to strengthening the federal government. But recent events have posed unprecedented challenges to this mission. 

In this episode, Max discusses the profound impacts of recent administrative changes on federal agencies, the resilience of public servants, and the critical importance of maintaining a trustworthy and effective government. He also outlines the Partnership’s adaptive strategies to continue supporting civil servants and engaging the public amidst these challenges.

In a moment when critical global health programs are under threat due to sweeping USAID cuts, two organizations are stepping up. The Life You Can Save and Founders Pledge have teamed up to launch the Rapid Response Fund, directing urgent philanthropic capital to the highest-impact, evidence-based interventions. Joining us today are Jessica LaMesa, Co-CEO of The Life You Can Save, and David Goldberg, Co-Founder and CEO of Founders Pledge.

As David explains, “The heart shouldn’t really decide how we give. It should bring us to give, but the head should be the one that helps us to figure out what to give to.”

In this episode, we’ll explore how these organizations are using evidence, speed, and collaboration to fill urgent funding gaps—and how their work might just reshape how philanthropy responds to a global crises.

At Goodwill Industries, the mission isn’t just about thrift stores—it’s about unlocking human potential through work and learning, especially for those society often overlooks. Today, I’m joined by Steve Preston, CEO of Goodwill Industries International, a leader who’s taken his experience from Wall Street to Washington and now to one of North America’s biggest nonprofits.

In this episode, we’ll dive into how Goodwill walks alongside people facing barriers, adapts to a changing job landscape, and redefines impact—one life at a time. Stay tuned for a conversation that’s as inspiring as it is insightful.

My next guest says that most people approach philanthropy with the right heart but the wrong map. They want to give—but don’t know where to start, how to make it matter, or how to ensure it’s truly meaningful. Alex Johnston is the Founding Partner of Building Impact Partners, a philanthropic advisory firm that helps high-capacity donors align their giving with values, strategy, and real impact. He’s also the author of Money with Meaning: How to Create Joy and Impact through Philanthropy.

If you’ve ever paused at the grocery store, looked at a Fair Trade label, and wondered what it really means—this episode is for you. Paul Rice, the founder and CEO of Fair Trade USA, has spent over two decades proving that ethical sourcing isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good business. He shares how his time living in rural Nicaragua reshaped his understanding of dignity, aid, and the power of markets. He takes us inside the early criticisms Fair Trade faced, how farmers themselves responded, and why he believes we’re at a pivotal moment in the evolution of conscious capitalism. We’ll also discuss his new book, Every Purchase Matters, and how businesses, consumers, and policymakers alike can create meaningful change—starting with the choices we make every day.

Today we're joined by Brenda Asare, chair of the Giving Institute and president and CEO of the Alford Group, a 45 year consultancy that's powered billions in nonprofit impact. With decades of experience, including leading major disaster fundraising efforts, she's tackling today's wild nonprofit landscape. We'll dive into the sector's strains, donor shifts, and how resilience is rising to meet the moment.

Welcome to The Business of Giving. I’m your host, Denver Frederick. My guest today is Grace Bonilla, President and CEO of the United Way of New York City. With a lifelong dedication to helping New Yorkers thrive, Grace leads the organization in addressing systemic poverty, promoting equity, and strengthening communities across the city.

The mission of United Way has always been clear: helping New Yorkers thrive. But as Grace explains:

“What has changed is the needs of New Yorkers, and we have really been at the forefront of answering both emerging needs and long-lasting policy needs to really make sure that New Yorkers are thriving.”

We’ll talk about how United Way is meeting the challenges of a post-COVID world, creating innovative partnerships, and driving solutions that impact the lives of millions across New York City.

Welcome to The Business of Giving. I’m your host, Denver Frederick. Accessing social services in the United States can be a daunting and confusing process, often leaving those in need struggling to find the support they require. One Degree, a pioneering organization, is changing that narrative by creating a user-friendly platform that connects families with critical resources, empowering them to achieve stability and mobility. Joining us today is Rey Faustino, founder and CEO of One Degree. Inspired by his own journey as an immigrant, Rey is on a mission to simplify how individuals navigate essential services. In this episode, we’ll delve into how One Degree is transforming lives through technology, its unique approach to addressing systemic barriers, and the innovative ways it builds community trust. Stay with us for a fascinating conversation about reshaping the social services ecosystem.

Welcome to The Business of Giving. I’m your host, Denver Frederick.Imagine a school where every child receives a hot, nutritious meal every day. For many in Kenya, this is now a reality, thanks to the innovative work of Food4Education. Joining us today is Wawira Njiru, the organization’s founder, whose work is transforming the lives of 450,000 children daily and reshaping how school feeding is done across Africa. As Wawira explains, “We know that hungry children can't learn or grow, and neither can nations. Nations cannot grow if they're hungry.” In this episode, we’ll explore the groundbreaking strategies behind Food4Education, from their Tap to Eat system to their partnerships with local farmers and governments. Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation about turning a bold vision into a sustainable solution for classroom hunger.

I’m Denver Frederick, the host of The Business of Giving. My guest today is Christine Squires, CEO of Americares, a global health organization that has been improving health and saving lives for over 45 years.Under Christine’s leadership, Americares supports over 4,000 health centers in 85 countries, responding to an average of 35 emergencies each year while also addressing long-term health challenges. The organization’s innovative work spans areas like disaster preparedness, mental health, and climate resilience. As Christine passionately puts it:“And we believe health is essential; it's a human right. And also with good health, there's opportunity, so people have the opportunity to work, go to school and build stronger communities.”Join me now as we dig into Americares’ mission, its global impact, and the inspiring vision Christine Squires has for the future of health and humanitarian aid.

I’m Denver Frederick, the host of The Business of Giving. My guest today is Peter Laugharn, CEO of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, one of the largest family foundations in the United States.

Under Peter’s leadership, the Foundation has doubled its grantmaking capacity and expanded its focus across seven core initiatives, tackling issues from homelessness and foster youth in the U.S. to safe drinking water and refugee support globally. He brings a refreshing perspective on progress in philanthropy, saying:

“We never completely fail, and we never completely succeed. We take it apart, rework it, and keep going.”

With this mindset, Peter is guiding the Hilton Foundation to build sustainable and systemic impact by partnering with communities and empowering local leaders. Join me now as we explore his mission-driven approach and the transformative work of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation.

I’m Denver Frederick, the host of The Business of Giving. My guest today is Michael Dowling, CEO of Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare provider. 

Under his leadership, Northwell has grown from a single hospital into an integrated system, offering everything from ambulatory care to end-of-life services. Dowling is a visionary, redefining healthcare by addressing issues like gun violence and mental health, which he views as integral to public health. As he says:

“I believe that CEOs have a responsibility to take on those social issues, especially in healthcare, that have a direct impact on health. And when you look around, there’s a lot of things. Everything has a direct impact on health. So we just can’t be talking about medical care delivery only. We’ve got to get involved in influencing societal issues that have a negative impact. Gun violence is one of those.”

With this approach, Dowling places Northwell at the forefront of both healthcare innovation and social responsibility. Now, let’s dive into an inspiring conversation about his bold vision for healthcare leadership and the community-centered initiatives driving change at Northwell Health.

Welcome to The Business of Giving. I’m your host, Denver Frederick, and today we have a guest who is transforming the landscape of employment around the globe. Dr. Mona Mourshed is the CEO of Generation.org, a nonprofit that has trained over 120,000 adults into new careers across 17 countries and 40 professions.

Dr. Mourshed shares the powerful inspiration behind Generation:

“Youth across the world were protesting the situation of education not leading to employment, and so that’s really what sparked the thinking: What would it take to not just train people, but train and place them into new careers, and to have that change last over time?”

We’ll explore how Generation.org is breaking down barriers with their unique seven-step methodology, the impact of AI on the future of work, and how they’re empowering individuals of all ages to achieve economic mobility.

Here is my conversation with Dr. Mona Mourshed on The Business of Giving.

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Susan Taylor Batten, President and CEO of ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities. For over half a century, ABFE has been a driving force in promoting effective philanthropy within Black communities, striving to advance equity and justice in the philanthropic sector.

Susan shares the powerful story of ABFE’s bold beginnings at the 1971 Council on Foundations meeting—a pivotal moment that reshaped the landscape of philanthropy:

And so the act to present an alternative slate of candidates with Black professionals on it, over time, the business meeting came back together after the disruption, and five Black foundation executives were voted onto the board of the Council of Foundations.

In our conversation, we’ll explore ABFE’s current initiatives, such as the Racial Equity Advancement and Defense Initiative, efforts to increase funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and strategies to retain Black professionals in philanthropy.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that not only traces ABFE’s impactful journey but also highlights the ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive and equitable philanthropic landscape.

Today, we’re joined by Chris Helfrich, CEO of Eat. Learn. Play., the foundation founded by Stephen and Ayesha Curry to support children in their adopted hometown of Oakland, California. Focused on three pillars—nutritious meals, education, and play—the foundation has had a transformative impact on thousands of children.

One standout moment in our conversation is when Chris shares the philosophy that drives their work:

“And that is when Stephen chimed in and said, "Yeah, this is about impact for us, not legacy." And so, we've adopted this mantra, "Impact over legacy.” And that's been close to the center of Eat. Learn. Play. since we started.”

This powerful mindset ensures their mission remains focused on making the greatest difference in the lives of Oakland’s kids.

So, lean in for a compelling conversation that highlights the power of intentionality, community, and unwavering impact.

Chris Helfrich, Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation

Today, we’re joined by Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, to explore how this mission-driven company is reshaping the retail landscape.

As Neil shares, “We thought that if we could charge a fraction of the cost, that would be good. But we also asked ourselves, ‘What type of business would we want to work at?’”

In this episode, we’ll dive into Warby Parker’s innovative approach to balancing profit and purpose, their cutting-edge use of technology, and the company culture that fuels their growth.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a social impact enthusiast, or just curious about the future of retail, you won’t want to miss this insightful conversation with one of the visionaries leading the charge. Stay with us for an inspiring journey behind the brand that’s changing the way we see the world.

America’s National Parks are some of the most iconic and cherished landscapes in the world, and their preservation requires constant care and innovative thinking. My guest today is someone who has played a pivotal role in protecting these treasures. Joining me is Will Shafroth, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation.

As Will passionately shares, “We help the Park Service do things more creatively or innovatively, which as a nonprofit we’re better able to do sometimes than a government agency.”

In this episode, we’ll explore how Will has transformed the Foundation’s approach to fundraising, fostered partnerships that enhance the visitor experience, and worked to make National Parks more inclusive for all Americans. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation about the future of these incredible spaces.

Our guest today is working to change that. Joining us is Alyson Niemann, the CEO of Mindful Philanthropy. Since its founding in 2020, Mindful Philanthropy has been on a mission to catalyze impactful funding for mental health, addiction, and well-being initiatives, transforming how philanthropy tackles these urgent challenges.

As Alyson passionately states, “We think mental health is at the center of all things and all social issue areas.”

In this episode, we’ll dive into their innovative strategies, ambitious goals, and explore how each of us can play a role in advancing this movement. This is a conversation that promises to both enlighten and inspire. Stay with us as we explore how philanthropy is stepping up to make a real difference in mental health.

Welcome to The Business of Giving. I’m your host Denver Frederick. Today, we are delighted to welcome back Phil Buchanan, the President of the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP). Phil is a passionate advocate for the nonprofit sector and a keen observer of philanthropy’s role in strengthening democracy. We’ll be exploring critical issues such as the nonprofit sector’s evolving role, trust-based philanthropy, and the remarkable impact of MacKenzie Scott's giving model. We’ll also talk about donor-advised funds and technology’s role in reshaping philanthropy. Plus, exciting news—Phil has just kicked off Season 4 of his podcast *Giving Done Right*. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of philanthropy, this is a must-listen! There is a lot to explore, so let’s get started.

Today we have the distinct honor of welcoming a guest whose life's work is dedicated to combating one of the most heinous crimes of our era – modern slavery. Nick Grono, the CEO of the Freedom Fund, is a tireless advocate in the global fight against human trafficking.

In addition to this extraordinary work, Nick recently authored the timely and insightful book, How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World. Drawing from his two decades of experience leading organizations tackling complex global challenges, Nick offers a fresh and pragmatic approach to nonprofit leadership. He challenges conventional wisdom and provides actionable insights for leaders determined to transform their mission into tangible, measurable impact.

So, without further ado, let's embark on this journey into the world of nonprofit leadership with Nick Grono.

Father Edward "Monk" Malloy is President Emeritus of the University of Notre Dame, where he served as president from 1987 to 2005. He's the author of many books, including People First: Reflections on Leadership, a book that distills a wealth of leadership wisdom gleaned from his extensive career in education and community service.

Father Malloy has served on 32 separate boards, each offering its own unique challenges and lessons. These experiences have enriched his understanding and shaped his distinct perspectives on leadership, which he generously shares in this book.

William Foster is a managing partner at the Bridgespan Group and co-author of Betting on the Tortoise: Policy Incrementalism and How Philanthropy's Support Can Turn Small Sustained Steps into Big Impact. His research provides a deep dive into how major policy victories are often not the result of sudden leaps, but rather the culmination of strategic incremental efforts backed by steadfast philanthropic support. 

And joining him is Deborah Bielak, a partner in the Bridgespan San Francisco office. She is the co-author of Using All the Tools in the Toolkit: Funding Advocacy for Social Change. It highlights the diverse strategies philanthropists can employ to drive policy and political changes that resonate with their objectives.

Vilas Dhar is President and Trustee of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, where he merges technology and philanthropy to address social challenges through artificial intelligence. With a background in computer science, law and entrepreneurship, Dhar advises international bodies such as the United Nations and OECD on AI.

The Kresge Foundation is a private national foundation that seeks to expand opportunities in American cities through grant making and social investing in arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and community development. Based in metropolitan Detroit, the foundation is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year. And here to discuss that and more with us is Rip Rapson, the president and CEO of the Kresge Foundation.

Sal Khan has been transforming education through Khan Academy, an online platform that brings top-tier instruction to students everywhere. Starting in 2008 as a way to tutor his cousin, it has evolved into a key educational resource covering subjects from math to humanities. It is dedicated to making personalized, mastery-based learning accessible to all by integrating technology into education. Its most recent evolution is Khanmigo, which aims to offer every student a personal AI tutor. And he is with us now. Welcome back to the Business of Giving, Sal

Aubrey Bergauer is a trailblazer in the classical music world, known for her innovative approaches to arts administration. As a former Executive Director of the California Symphony, Aubrey achieved remarkable success in growing audiences and fundraising.

In a world where countless community health workers, mainly women, labor tirelessly without proper support or resources, the Community Health Impact Coalition (CHIC) is making a significant difference. Leading this transformative effort is Dr. Madeleine Ballard, CHIC's executive director. Her vast experience, from shaping Liberia's National Community Health Program, to academic contributions at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has positioned her as a key figure in global health.