Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

Alberto Lidji

Listen to 350+ interviews on philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Guests include Paul Polman, David Lynch, Siya Kolisi, Cherie Blair, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Bob Moritz, David Miliband and Julia Gillard. Hosted by Alberto Lidji, Visiting Professor at Strathclyde Business School and ex-Global CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation. Visit Lidji.org for more information.

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#391Today · 32 min
Grand Challenges Canada's Peter Singer on Innovation, Integrity, and the SDGs
Peter Singer co-founded Grand Challenges Canada and served as its CEO before joining its board, where he still sits today. Over 15 years, the organisation has backed roughly 1,700 innovations across more than 100 countries, deployed over a billion dollars in funding — more than half from the Government of Canada — and reached 85 million people, improved 28 million lives, and saved an estimated 120,000 lives. Peter shares vivid examples: a small grant that helped seed Mylab, now a billion-dollar Indian diagnostics unicorn; an early investment that led to Ubiologics' cholera vaccine now entering the global stockpile; and Tanzania's M-Mama, an Uber-style maternal transport service now operating at national scale within government. Peter traces his path through four distinct careers: as a physician and professor of medicine focused on end-of-life care, sparked by a formative experience with a dying patient in 1984; as co-founder of a bioethics centre; as co-founder and CEO of Grand Challenges Canada; and later at the World Health Organization under Tedros, where he worked to embed a results-driven culture through the "triple billion" targets. He reflects candidly on what worked and what didn't — the tools for measuring outcomes and outputs were built, but institutionalising accountability within a large multilateral bureaucracy proved far harder. The conversation covers the state of philanthropy in Canada, contrasting its concentrated, strategic style with the greater density of giving in the US. Peter also discusses integrated innovation — blending technological, social, financial, and now digital and AI-driven approaches — and makes the case for social and service-delivery innovation being undervalued relative to flashier technological bets, using a comparison between a Gates Foundation toilet technology challenge and Grand Challenges Canada's portfolio of water and sanitation social enterprises. On the Sustainable Development Goals, Peter is blunt: progress is weak, and he argues real success would come first from intellectual honesty about where things stand, and the accountability and data work needed to understand why. He closes with advice for young people: find a problem that genuinely bothers you and solve it, seek out the right mentors, recognise a "rocket ship" opportunity when it appears, and let character and integrity anchor everything else. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#390August 3 · 34 min
Michael Thatcher, President & CEO of Charity Navigator, on Rating 245,000 Charities, New Impact Scores & Why Fewer Americans Are Giving
It's a pleasure to welcome Michael Thatcher back onto the Do One Better Podcast. Michael is President and Chief Executive Officer of Charity Navigator, the largest independent evaluator of nonprofits in the United States, now marking its 25th year and covering roughly 245,000 charities as a free public service to donors. Michael last joined the show in 2022, and returns with a comprehensive update on how Charity Navigator has evolved since then — including a major overhaul to its rating methodology, a new partnership bringing cost-per-outcome impact data into the platform, and candid reflections on some of the biggest structural challenges facing the charitable sector today. In this conversation, Michael and Alberto discuss: A 25-year milestone. How Charity Navigator evaluates nearly 245,000 charities with a team of just 35 people, largely by processing publicly available IRS tax filings. The April 2026 ratings overhaul. A new methodology spanning 49 metrics across 10 evaluation areas — financial health, governance, leadership and impact measurement among them — plus a new partnership with True Impact to bring cost-per-outcome scoring to the platform. How curated lists get built. Why a complete, high-quality data set and demonstrated effectiveness are required for an organisation to appear on one of Charity Navigator's roughly 50 curated lists — and how "whimsical" lists (most popular charities, celebrity-favoured causes) sit alongside more rigorously vetted ones. Giving funds, explained. How Charity Navigator's roughly dozen thematic funds work as pooled, pass-through vehicles (not donor-advised funds), how allocations across organisations are rebalanced, and why full transparency into fund composition matters to donors. Two unexpected donor demographics. Why younger donors are drawn to cause-based giving over brand loyalty, and why older donors are increasingly using Charity Navigator's funds as a dependable vehicle within estate and legacy planning. The AI disintermediation challenge. How Charity Navigator's open, free data is increasingly being surfaced directly by large language models — reducing website traffic and, with it, the donation asks that fund the organisation's own operations. A troubling giving trend. New research showing a steady, multi-year decline in the number of individual donors in the US even as total dollars given continues to rise — and why Charity Navigator's own research points to a "connection" problem rather than a trust problem. Staying above the fray. How Charity Navigator has maintained credibility with donors across a polarised political landscape by consistently avoiding partisan positioning. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#389July 27 · 37 min
From Paraguay to 62 Countries: Martin Burt's Bold New Framework for Eliminating Poverty
Martin Burt, Founder and CEO of Fundación Paraguaya (Paraguay Development Foundation) and former Mayor of Asunción, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss a fundamentally different approach to eliminating poverty. Rather than focusing solely on income or government interventions, Burt argues that lasting change begins with families, dignity, and the entrepreneurial spirit. The conversation explores the Poverty Stoplight, a framework now used in 62 countries that enables families to assess their own multidimensional poverty across objective measures such as housing and income, alongside subjective factors including motivation, self-esteem, and aspirations. By identifying their own priorities and connecting with practical solutions, families become active agents in their journey out of poverty. Martin explains why empowerment matters as much as economics, why families should define what it means to be "not poor," and how this locally developed methodology from Paraguay is reshaping poverty alleviation across the Global South and the Global North. He also reflects on lessons from four decades in economic development, public service, and social innovation, offering a compelling vision for putting human flourishing at the heart of development. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#388July 20 · 30 min
Don Gips, CEO Emeritus of the Skoll Foundation: Social Entrepreneurship, Systems Change, and the Rise of Systems Orchestrators
What does it take to change systems rather than simply address symptoms? In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Don Gips, CEO Emeritus of the Skoll Foundation, about the evolution of social entrepreneurship and the enduring role it plays in tackling the world's most complex challenges. Drawing on a career spanning the private sector, government, diplomacy, and philanthropy, Don reflects on the Skoll Foundation's pioneering efforts to help establish social entrepreneurship as a global field. He discusses Jeff Skoll's founding vision, the creation of the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at the University of Oxford, and the growth of the Skoll World Forum into one of the world's foremost gatherings of social innovators. The conversation explores what distinguishes social entrepreneurship from traditional charitable approaches, emphasizing the pursuit of systems change through innovative models that reshape incentives, institutions, and outcomes. Don explains why successful social entrepreneurs increasingly build enduring organizations rather than relying on individual leadership, and why adaptability is essential when navigating resistance to systemic reform. A central theme is the growing importance of "systems orchestrators": trusted leaders who convene diverse stakeholders, align incentives, and enable collective action across sectors. Don argues that these often overlooked actors play a critical role in advancing large-scale social change, even when their contributions resist conventional methods of attribution and measurement. The discussion also examines philanthropy's relationship with risk, the challenges of funding systems change, and the need to move beyond linear models of impact toward collaborative approaches that recognize shared contribution. Don shares practical insights into how foundations can better support both social entrepreneurs and the broader ecosystems that enable transformational change. Reflecting on his own career, Don recounts lessons from leadership roles including U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, domestic policy advisor to Vice President Al Gore, and CEO of the Skoll Foundation. The episode concludes with a simple but powerful principle that has shaped both the Skoll Foundation and Don's own career: bet on good people doing good things, then use your resources, relationships, and influence to help them succeed. This conversation will appeal to anyone interested in philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, systems change, impact investing, leadership, and the future of social innovation. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#387July 13 · 29 min
Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett: Creating the Plants of the Future Through Innovation, Science & Philanthropy
Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett joins Alberto Lidji to explore one of the world's most important—and often overlooked—scientific frontiers: plant science. As Chair of the John Innes Centre, Sir Thomas shares how this globally renowned research institute is developing the plants of the future—crops that are more nutritious, more resilient to climate change, require fewer chemical inputs, and can help feed a growing global population sustainably. The conversation examines the remarkable advances emerging from modern plant science, from vitamin D-enriched tomatoes and disease-resistant potatoes to drought-tolerant crops and breakthroughs that could transform biodiversity, regenerative agriculture, and global food security. A central theme is the distinction between precision breeding and genetic modification. Sir Thomas explains how precision breeding accelerates processes that occur naturally, enabling scientists to develop improved crop varieties far more rapidly while navigating evolving regulatory environments in the UK and Europe. The discussion also explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in scientific discovery. AI, advanced data science, and international collaboration are reshaping how researchers identify valuable genetic traits, accelerate breakthroughs, and tackle some of humanity's greatest challenges. Beyond agriculture, the conversation highlights how plant science contributes to medicine, including promising research with potential applications in vaccine development, illustrating how fundamental scientific research often generates benefits far beyond its original purpose. Sir Thomas also reflects on a challenge familiar to many philanthropists: funding long-term scientific research. While scientific discoveries can take years or even decades to translate into real-world impact, he argues that some of society's greatest advances require patient, visionary philanthropy willing to invest in the future rather than immediate outcomes. This episode explores: Why plant science is central to food security, human health, and climate resilience. How precision breeding differs from genetic modification. The role of AI in accelerating scientific discovery. Why long-term philanthropic capital is essential for breakthrough science. How scientific storytelling can inspire greater public understanding and support. A fascinating conversation at the intersection of science, sustainability, innovation, and philanthropy—offering an optimistic vision of how research today can help create a healthier future for people and the planet. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#386July 6 · 33 min
Patrick Dunne on What Makes Great Boards Work
Patrick Dunne, author of "Boards", joins host Alberto Lidji on the Do One Better Podcast for a timely conversation on how boards can become more effective, more agile and more valuable. Drawing on the third edition of his book "Boards", Patrick explores how governance is changing in a world shaped by AI, faster decision making, dynamic strategy, rising uncertainty and more complex risk. He looks at the growing role of AI in boardrooms, from summarising papers and tracking regulatory change to supporting better decisions, while also considering where human judgement remains essential. Patrick also discusses the increasing importance of subcommittees, the value of bringing domain experts and next generation voices into governance, and why advisory boards may not always be the best way to access external insight. He reflects on trustee remuneration, generational diversity and the need for boards to move beyond traditional meeting formats. A highly practical episode for board members, chairs, chief executives, trustees, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs who want to strengthen governance and make better decisions. Patrick's executive experience includes 26 years in a variety of investment and management roles with 3i Group plc where, until 2012, he was Communications Director, a member of its Operating committee and Chairman of its Operational Risk forum. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#385June 29 · 35 min
Rachel Kolisi on Falling Forward, Philanthropy, and the Power of the One
Rachel Kolisi returns to the Do One Better Podcast for a candid and deeply reflective conversation with host Alberto Lidji about philanthropy, resilience, and the launch of the Falling Forward Foundation in South Africa. Since her previous appearance on the podcast, Rachel’s life and work have changed significantly. Having co-founded the Kolisi Foundation and led major impact work, she now enters a new chapter focused on strengthening the broader nonprofit ecosystem, particularly grassroots organisations that are doing vital work but lack visibility, resources, and access to support. Through the Falling Forward Foundation, Rachel is not looking to reinvent the wheel. Instead, she wants to walk alongside existing organisations, amplify their work, and help solve practical barriers that can prevent life-changing services from reaching communities. She shares the example of a community kitchen in the Eastern Cape that was feeding thousands of people but could not operate properly during the rainy season because of a leaking roof. For Rachel, this kind of issue matters deeply. It may not always fit neatly into a systemic change framework, but for the people affected, it is transformational. This episode explores the emotional demands of philanthropic leadership and how, in difficult seasons, Rachel returns to the deeper purpose behind her work: serving people and creating meaningful change. Rachel speaks openly about rebuilding after personal and professional upheaval, the discipline of staying true to one’s mission, and the beauty of small acts of generosity. She highlights the potential of crowdfunding and collective giving, making the case that many small contributions can create meaningful and tangible change. The conversation also touches on South Africa’s nonprofit landscape, the need for stronger collaboration, the role of trust and transparency, and Rachel’s admiration for Melinda French Gates as a philanthropic leader who continues to resource areas that have often been overlooked. At the heart of the episode is Rachel’s reminder that impact does not always need to be measured only at systemic scale. Sometimes the most meaningful change begins with one person, one act, one relationship, and one moment of care. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#384June 22 · 26 min
How Renewable Energy Can Support Peace in Conflict-Affected Countries. An interview with David Mozersky, President and Co-Founder of Energy Peace Partners.
In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with David Mozersky, President and Co-Founder of Energy Peace Partners, about the connection between renewable energy and peacebuilding in fragile and conflict-affected countries. David explains how some of the least electrified countries in the world are also among the most affected by conflict and climate vulnerability. From South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo to Somalia and Chad, Energy Peace Partners works to bring renewable energy solutions to communities where electricity access can transform lives, strengthen local economies, improve health and education, enhance security, and support peace. The conversation explores how distributed renewable energy, such as solar mini grids and public lighting, can create shared benefits for communities, open up new economic opportunities, and serve as a practical peacebuilding tool. David also introduces the Peace Renewable Energy Credit, known as a PREC, an innovative financing mechanism that helps channel sustainability funding into renewable energy projects in fragile settings. David discusses the role of major corporate buyers, including Microsoft and Google, and looks at the potential of the new PREC Aggregation Facility, an $11 million initiative designed to unlock far larger investment in renewable energy projects across fragile states in Africa. He also considers the role of philanthropy, the challenges of building a new field at the intersection of peace and renewable energy, and the importance of collaboration among funders, developers, policymakers, researchers, and peacebuilding organizations. This is a thoughtful and timely conversation about how clean energy can do more than reduce emissions. It can improve lives, create new forms of cooperation, and contribute to peace and stability in some of the world’s most challenging contexts. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#383June 15 · 32 min
Keeping Children Safe Online: Chris Sherwood, CEO of NSPCC, on AI, Social Media, Regulation, and Protecting Children
In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive Officer of the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children), one of the United Kingdom's most respected and influential child protection charities. As technology continues to reshape childhood, Chris explores the urgent challenges facing children and young people online, from social media and algorithmic design to artificial intelligence, sextortion, online exploitation, and emerging digital risks. Drawing on insights from Childline, which receives a contact from a child or young person every 45 seconds, he shares what children are experiencing firsthand and why stronger protections are needed. The conversation examines the UK's Online Safety Act, the responsibilities of technology companies, and the growing debate over age restrictions, platform accountability, and digital regulation. Chris argues that while important progress has been made, legislation and enforcement must evolve at the pace of technological change, particularly as AI becomes increasingly embedded in young people's lives. At the same time, he highlights the enormous potential of AI to support education, learning, healthcare, and personal development. The challenge, he explains, is ensuring that innovation is accompanied by meaningful safeguards that make technology worthy of children's trust. The discussion also explores the NSPCC's commitment to listening directly to young people, ensuring that their voices shape public policy and the decisions that will affect their futures. Chris reflects on the differing perspectives of parents and children, the role of schools, and the practical steps adults can take to support safer online experiences. Finally, Chris shares his own leadership journey, from a childhood shaped by adversity to leading some of the UK's most prominent social purpose organisations, including the RSPCA, Relate, and now the NSPCC. Throughout, he returns to a guiding belief that meaningful change is possible when society is willing to act. Topics covered include: • The mission and work of the NSPCC and Childline • Online safety and child protection in the digital age • The strengths and limitations of the Online Safety Act • Social media, algorithms, and platform accountability • Sextortion, AI-generated abuse, and emerging online harms • Artificial intelligence and its implications for children and young people • Why young people's voices must be central to policymaking • The role of parents, schools, governments, and technology companies • Leadership, and optimism as a force for change Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#382June 8 · 44 min
Collaborative Philanthropy as an Asset Class: Unlocking Greater Impact Through Pooled Giving — Alison Powell, Kimberly Dasher Tripp & Neha Dalal
Collaborative philanthropy is emerging as one of the most promising innovations in modern giving. In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, host Alberto Lidji is joined by three leading voices in collaborative philanthropy: Alison Powell, Partner at The Bridgespan Group and leader of its Collaborative Philanthropy practice; Kimberly Dasher Tripp, Founder of Strategy for Scale; and Neha Dalal, Principal at Jasper Ridge Partners, where she advises families and foundations on strategic philanthropy and impact. Together, they explore the growing role of collaborative funds as a powerful vehicle for scaling philanthropic impact. Drawing on their jointly authored article, Collaboratives as a Philanthropic Asset Class, the guests examine how expert-led pooled funds are reshaping the philanthropic landscape. They explain why collaborative funds—vehicles that aggregate capital from multiple donors and deploy it through a shared strategy—can help address some of philanthropy’s most persistent challenges, including fragmented giving, limited donor capacity, and the difficulty of identifying and supporting the highest-impact opportunities. The conversation explores the analogy between collaborative funds and investment vehicles such as mutual funds, ETFs, and venture capital funds. Just as investors rely on professional fund managers and diversified portfolios, donors can leverage collaborative funds to access deep expertise, rigorous diligence, strategic coordination, and greater reach than they might achieve on their own. Alison, Kimberly, and Neha discuss the remarkable diversity of collaborative funds operating today—from issue-focused initiatives addressing climate change, gender equity, poverty, global health, and education, to community-led funds that place decision-making power in the hands of those closest to the challenges being addressed. They also examine how collaborative funds can help donors learn while giving, build relationships with peers, and participate in communities of practice focused on shared impact goals. The discussion addresses common misconceptions and critiques of collaborative giving, including concerns about intermediary costs, loss of donor control, and potential duplication within the philanthropic ecosystem. The guests explain why these considerations are best understood as trade-offs rather than shortcomings, and how collaborative models can often increase both efficiency and effectiveness while mobilizing significantly more capital toward urgent social and environmental challenges. The episode also explores the infrastructure needed to support the continued growth of collaborative philanthropy, including improved discovery tools, clearer evaluation frameworks, and stronger field-building efforts that help donors identify and engage with collaborative opportunities aligned with their values and objectives. Whether you are an experienced philanthropist, an emerging donor, a family office advisor, or simply interested in how resources can be deployed more effectively for social impact, this conversation offers a compelling perspective on why collaborative funds may become an increasingly important part of the future of philanthropy. Key Topics Covered What collaborative philanthropy funds are and how they operate Why collaborative funds can be viewed as a philanthropic asset class The parallels between collaborative giving and investment fund models How collaborative funds increase efficiency, expertise, and scale The role of community leadership, proximity, and power-sharing in philanthropy Different collaborative fund structures, governance models, and strategies How donors can determine whether collaborative giving is right for them The importance of donor self-awareness and philanthropic strategy Common barriers to collaborative giving and how they can be overcome The infrastructure needed to strengthen the collaborative philanthropy ecosystem Why many practitioners see collaborative funds as a key part of philanthropy’s future Memorable Insights Collaborative funds allow donors to leverage expert knowledge, shared diligence, and collective action. Giving through a collaborative fund does not replace direct philanthropy; it complements it. Many of philanthropy’s biggest challenges are too large and interconnected for any single donor to address alone. Collaborative funds can help move capital more quickly, strategically, and at greater scale. The future of philanthropy may depend on helping donors move from acting alone to acting together. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#381June 1 · 29 min
Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation: Accelerating Discovery, Prevention and Cure
Heart and circulatory diseases remain among the world's leading causes of death, yet scientific progress is accelerating at an extraordinary pace. In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation, about the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of cardiovascular health. Charmaine shares how the British Heart Foundation invests more than £100 million annually in research, supports millions of people through information and advocacy, and works to influence policy on issues ranging from smoking prevention to public health inequalities. The conversation explores emerging breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, data science and genetics, including the British Heart Foundation's ambitious Cure Heart programme, which seeks to develop the first treatments for inherited heart muscle conditions that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. They also discuss the growing role of weight loss medications, the importance of tackling health inequalities, and the need to ensure that advances in medicine benefit everyone. Key topics include: How AI, data and genetic technologies are reshaping cardiovascular medicine The Cure Heart programme and the pursuit of life-changing treatments for inherited heart conditions Why CPR training and wider access to defibrillators can save lives The British Heart Foundation's Accelerator Circle and approaches to accelerating innovation New partnerships focused on women's cardiovascular health and improving outcomes globally Charmaine concludes with a powerful call to action: learn CPR. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#380May 25 · 42 min
Amber Miller, President of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation: The Promise and Peril of AI and Emerging Technologies in a More Uncertain World
With an endowment exceeding $14 billion and annual grantmaking of roughly $600 to $700 million, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation occupies a distinctive position in global philanthropy: large enough to shape conversations, yet intentionally focused on convening expertise, supporting long-term thinking, and backing institutions working on society’s most complex challenges. In this episode, Amber Miller, President of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss how one of the world’s leading foundations is approaching artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and an increasingly uncertain global landscape. The conversation explores how AI is becoming a cross-cutting concern across the foundation’s work, spanning climate, democracy, education, public systems, and global development. Rather than treating AI solely as a technological issue, Miller describes efforts to connect traditionally separate areas of expertise, creating new ways to understand both risks and opportunities. A central focus is security. Miller reflects on near-term threats linked to AI and emerging technologies, including vulnerabilities affecting hospitals, energy grids, water systems, transportation networks, and other forms of critical infrastructure. The discussion also examines the convergence of AI with biosynthesis and quantum technologies, including concerns that advances in quantum-enabled decryption could eventually undermine existing encryption systems with implications for public systems, state resilience, and national security. The governance challenge is equally complex. Beyond familiar narratives centered on competition between the United States and China, Miller points to the potential influence of "middle powers" and subnational actors in shaping norms, oversight, and approaches to AI governance. The episode considers who will help guide the future of these technologies: governments, researchers, civil society, universities, industry, philanthropic institutions, and actors operating across borders and sectors. Yet the conversation is far from pessimistic. Miller repeatedly emphasizes that AI is not inherently good or bad, and that its ultimate impact will depend on how societies choose to deploy it. Potential opportunities discussed include: Accelerating breakthroughs in medicine, genomics, and disease treatment Improving efficiency in clean energy systems and supporting climate solutions Enabling more personalized learning and strengthening educational outcomes Expanding productivity, unlocking new forms of work, and augmenting human capability rather than replacing it Drawing on a career spanning astrophysics, university leadership, and science-informed public engagement, Miller offers a perspective shaped by interdisciplinary thinking and a deep interest in solving difficult problems. Throughout the episode, she returns to a recurring theme: humanity is living through a pivotal moment marked by rapid technological advancement, societal polarization, and mounting global challenges, but also extraordinary potential for ingenuity, collaboration, and progress. This is a conversation about AI, philanthropy, governance, and emerging technologies. More fundamentally, it is a conversation about whether institutions can work together to steer powerful innovations toward human flourishing rather than instability. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#379May 18 · 31 min
Dana Schmidt of Echidna Giving: Deploying $6 Billion for Girls’ Education While Staying Close to Communities
What does thoughtful philanthropy look like when the ambition is to deploy $6 billion over the next 35 years in support of girls’ education? In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Dana Schmidt, Program Director at Echidna Giving, about the realities of large-scale grantmaking, the responsibility that comes with stewarding significant philanthropic capital, and why supporting girls’ education remains one of the most evidence-backed pathways toward long-term social change. Echidna Giving is expanding rapidly, with annual grantmaking projected to grow from roughly $50 million to $200 million. Dana explains why giving money away well is far from straightforward. The conversation explores how funders can remain responsive to grantees, learn continuously, and avoid becoming disconnected from the communities they seek to support. Central to Echidna Giving’s approach is a commitment to listening to those closest to the problems, investing in long-term relationships, taking measured risks, and embedding clear values into day-to-day decision making. The discussion also examines how philanthropic organizations can preserve culture and effectiveness while scaling. Dana shares how Echidna Giving formalized guiding principles for its work, used independent grantee perception surveys to gather honest feedback, and saw stronger results even as the organization grew and expanded geographically. A major theme throughout the conversation is proximity. As Echidna Giving has built teams closer to the regions where it works, including East Africa, its grantmaking has evolved. The organization has increased direct engagement with locally led institutions and is supporting efforts to strengthen African-led education research, with the aim of shifting who produces evidence and shapes educational priorities. Dana also outlines the areas where Echidna Giving concentrates its funding, including early childhood, foundational learning, and adolescent girls’ education, recognizing these as pivotal moments that influence whether girls remain in school and thrive over the long term. The conversation considers how philanthropy can complement, rather than replace, public systems, acknowledging that governments remain the largest investors in education worldwide. This episode is a thoughtful exploration of effective philanthropy, trust-based grantmaking, systems change, and the challenge of turning substantial resources into meaningful, lasting impact. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#378May 11 · 35 min
Nicole Taylor, President and CEO of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, on Giving Across Generations, Diverse Causes, Donor Advised Funds, and Lasting Impact
Nicole Taylor, President and CEO of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, joins Alberto Lidji to explore the evolving landscape of modern philanthropy through the lens of the world’s largest community foundation. The conversation examines how donor advised funds (DAFs) are reshaping giving across generations, from ultra high net worth philanthropists to everyday donors seeking meaningful impact. Nicole explains why donor advised funds have become a flexible and increasingly influential vehicle for charitable giving, and how Silicon Valley Community Foundation supports donors in translating intention into action. Nicole also discusses the Foundation’s deep local engagement across the Bay Area, including work focused on housing affordability, economic mobility, healthcare workforce development, and small business growth in one of the most unequal regions in the United States. The episode further explores the Foundation’s global reach, including how it supports donors pursuing international development and cross border philanthropy through partnerships and philanthropic networks spanning regions such as Africa, including Rwanda. Key themes include: The role of donor advised funds in contemporary philanthropy and why they appeal to donors across wealth levels How philanthropy evolves across generations, from emerging wealth creators to legacy focused giving Silicon Valley Community Foundation’s work on housing, healthcare careers, and economic opportunity in California The importance of collaboration, donor circles, and expert networks in advancing more strategic philanthropy Why community foundations remain essential civic institutions in both local and global giving Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#377May 4 · 30 min
Green Gold: How Sustainability Creates Deal Value
Sustainability has shifted from corporate aspiration to financial reality, but how do companies actually measure its impact on value creation? In this episode, Alberto Lidji speaks with Michel Driessen about the evolving relationship between sustainability, ESG, corporate finance, and mergers and acquisitions. Drawing from the themes explored in Green Gold: How Sustainability Creates Deal Value, Michel explains how businesses and investors are increasingly translating sustainability into measurable financial outcomes. The conversation examines why sustainability has become more politically charged in recent years, while simultaneously becoming more embedded inside corporate operations, investment decisions, and supply chains. Michel argues that although the public conversation around ESG may have cooled, many companies continue advancing sustainability initiatives behind the scenes because the financial and operational implications are too significant to ignore. A major focus of the discussion is the role of CFOs and financial leaders. Michel explains how sustainability responsibilities are shifting away from standalone ESG teams and becoming central to finance, strategy, and investment committees. The episode explores how organizations can assess sustainability risks and opportunities at the business unit level, rather than relying solely on broad company-wide ESG ratings. Alberto and Michel also unpack: • How sustainability factors influence valuation, EBITDA, cash flow, and cost of capital • Why materiality and maturity assessments matter in transaction due diligence • The growing influence of investors, pension funds, banks, and regulators • The connection between reputational risk and financial risk • Why governance issues are often underestimated compared to environmental topics • The complexities and unintended consequences of ESG decision-making across industries and geographies • How new disclosure and reporting standards are reshaping corporate accountability • Why MBA students and future executives are increasingly focused on sustainability regulation and financial integration The discussion also touches on examples from global business, including Unilever’s sustainability leadership, investor expectations, supply chain resilience, and the practical realities of balancing profitability with long-term responsibility. Ultimately, this episode explores how sustainability is becoming integrated into mainstream financial decision-making, not simply as a reputational exercise, but as a core component of business performance and enterprise value. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#376April 27 · 29 min
Child-Centered Justice: Rethinking Systems for Children’s Rights
In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Professor Jennifer Davidson, Executive Director of the Institute for Inspiring Children’s Futures at the University of Strathclyde. The conversation examines how global coalitions, governments, and communities can work together to better uphold children’s rights. Professor Davidson outlines the Institute’s mission to bridge research and real-world impact, focusing on children facing the greatest adversities. The discussion highlights a persistent global gap between society’s aspirations for children and their lived realities, and the structural barriers that continue to limit children’s access to justice, safety, and well-being. A central theme is the concept of child-centered justice. This approach reframes justice systems to recognize children as rights holders with agency, emphasizing outcomes that are safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate. It extends beyond formal legal systems to consider the full spectrum of children’s lived experiences, from victims of abuse to those in conflict with the law. The episode also examines the work of the Justice Action Coalition, a high-ambition partnership advancing people-centered justice in alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16. With growing governmental engagement, the coalition is now placing children at the forefront of justice reform efforts, aiming to align political will with actionable, scalable solutions. Key insights from the conversation include: Why justice systems often fail children, even when laws are in place The importance of listening directly to children’s experiences and perspectives Early findings from research across Sierra Leone, Greece, South Africa, Colombia, and the Philippines The role of feedback loops in improving public systems and closing implementation gaps Emerging challenges, including the impact of AI and digital systems on children’s rights The need for greater philanthropic focus on justice for children as a distinct field Professor Davidson also reflects on her professional journey, from frontline social work to leading systems change initiatives, and explains why accountability and justice are essential to sustaining progress for children over time. This episode offers a rigorous and globally informed perspective on how justice systems can evolve to better serve children. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#375April 20 · 34 min
Honnold Foundation's Executive Director, Emily Teitsworth, on Turning Small Grants into Scalable Climate Solutions
In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Emily Teitsworth, Executive Director of the Honnold Foundation, about a powerful and often overlooked approach to climate philanthropy. Founded by professional climber Alex Honnold, the Honnold Foundation focuses on expanding access to solar energy in underserved communities around the world. But its impact goes far beyond clean energy. The organization identifies and supports grassroots leaders who are frequently invisible to larger funders, helping them develop, grow, and ultimately access greater resources. Emily shares how the foundation operates as both a funder and an intermediary, providing not only grants but also hands-on capacity building. This includes support with strategy, financial management, communications, and storytelling. By strengthening organizational foundations, these small, locally led groups become better positioned to scale and engage with larger institutional funders. A central theme of the conversation is trust-based philanthropy. Rather than imposing rigid frameworks, the Honnold Foundation meets partners where they are, offering flexible funding and long-term support. This approach allows unexpected and transformative outcomes to emerge. From solar-powered internet access in remote Brazilian communities to solar boat fleets in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the ripple effects extend far beyond energy access. Emily also discusses the importance of patience in philanthropy, especially when working with grassroots organizations navigating complex regulatory and operational environments. She highlights the foundation’s role in bridging the gap between early-stage innovation and large-scale funding, helping surface high-potential projects that might otherwise go unnoticed. The episode explores the broader funding landscape, where billions flow into large-scale energy infrastructure while relatively little reaches community-led initiatives. The Honnold Foundation accounts for a meaningful share of global community solar funding, underscoring both the scale of need and the opportunity for more funders to engage. Ultimately, this conversation challenges traditional notions of scale and impact. It makes a compelling case for investing in small, locally rooted solutions as a pathway to meaningful, lasting change. Key topics include: Expanding solar energy access as both a climate and development solution Identifying and supporting overlooked grassroots organizations Trust-based philanthropy and unrestricted funding Capacity building as a pathway to scale Bridging grassroots innovation with institutional capital The concept of emergent impact in climate work Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#374April 13 · 30 min
Irene Pritzker, Chair and Co-Founder of the IDP Foundation on Financing Low-Cost Schools and Unlocking Education Access in Africa
In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, host Alberto Lidji speaks with Irene Pritzker, Chair and Co-Founder of the IDP Foundation and author of The School in the Market. The conversation explores how innovative financing models can expand access to quality education in underserved communities, with a focus on Ghana and Kenya. Pritzker shares the origin story behind the foundation’s work, which began with a visit to Ghana and a revealing encounter with informal, low-cost private schools serving families who lacked viable public education options. These schools, often founded by local entrepreneurs, operate in challenging conditions yet meet a critical need. Despite strong demand from parents, they were largely excluded from traditional financial systems due to perceived risk, lack of collateral, and limited formal business training. What followed was the creation of a new model: combining microfinance with targeted training in financial literacy and school management. By partnering with local financial institutions, the IDP Foundation developed a system of small, structured loans paired with capacity-building support. The results were striking. Schools improved their infrastructure incrementally, repayment rates reached approximately 98 percent, and student outcomes began to improve. The model has since scaled significantly, reaching hundreds of thousands of students and expanding beyond Ghana into Kenya. Importantly, it has also shifted perceptions within the financial sector. Institutions that once dismissed these schools as too risky are now beginning to recognize them as viable clients and a meaningful opportunity for both impact and return. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Rather than viewing low-cost private schools as competitors to government systems, Pritzker argues they should be seen as complementary, particularly in regions where public provision falls short. Governments, she notes, are increasingly engaging with the model, intrigued by both the data and the potential for improved learning outcomes. Finally, Pritzker shares insights from her broader philanthropic philosophy. She underscores the value of staying nimble, keeping governance structures lean, and focusing on interventions that can unlock larger systems change. Above all, she encourages funders and practitioners to identify overlooked opportunities where relatively small, strategic investments can catalyze significant and lasting impact. This episode offers a compelling look at how finance, entrepreneurship, and education can intersect to create scalable solutions for one of the world’s most pressing challenges. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#373April 6 · 27 min
Partnerships That Work: Darian Stibbe on Trust, Incentives and Cross-Sector Collaboration
Partnership is often spoken about as an ideal. Much more rarely is it treated as a discipline. In this episode Alberto Lidji speaks with Darian Stibbe, Executive Director of The Partnering Initiative, about what it takes to build collaborations that are not only well intentioned, but genuinely effective. At a time when the world’s most pressing challenges demand coordinated action across sectors, Darian makes the case that collaboration is no longer optional. Governments, businesses, philanthropies, civil society organisations and communities each bring different forms of value, but bringing those contributions together in a meaningful way requires far more than goodwill. This conversation explores the deeper architecture of effective partnership: trust, incentives, governance, mindset, shared accountability and the ability to work productively through ambiguity. Darian argues that partnering should be understood as a professional capability, one that can be developed, strengthened and embedded within institutions. The discussion also examines why so many partnerships struggle in practice. Often, the problem is not a lack of commitment, but a lack of structure, clarity and organisational readiness. From relationship-building and co-creation to institutional culture and leadership, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of what makes collaboration succeed or fail. A rich and practical conversation for those working across philanthropy, sustainability, international development, business and systems change. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
#372March 30 · 31 min
Developing Resilient Nonprofit Leaders: Madge Thomas, President of the American Express Foundation
What does it take to develop resilient nonprofit leaders, and why does that matter so much today? In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Madge Thomas, President of the American Express Foundation, about how the Foundation is investing in people, communities, and institutions to drive meaningful, long-term social impact. With a legacy spanning more than 50 years, the Foundation has remained rooted in a simple but powerful idea: strong local communities are the foundation for broader societal progress. From disaster response and recovery to small business support and nonprofit leadership development, its work reflects a deep commitment to helping communities thrive, especially in moments of need. At the centre of this conversation is the American Express Leadership Academy, a flagship initiative designed to equip emerging and mid-to-senior-level nonprofit leaders with the tools, confidence, and networks they need to lead effectively in a rapidly changing and often resource-constrained environment. Madge shares how the Academy has evolved to reflect the realities nonprofit leaders face today, including growing financial pressures, increasing complexity, and the need for resilience, adaptability, and stronger connection across the sector. This is a thoughtful conversation about leadership, philanthropy, capacity building, and the importance of investing in the people closest to the work. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

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