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

Benjamin Perks, UNICEF’s Head of Advocacy for Child Development and Protection, joins Alberto Lidji on the Do One Better Podcast to make the case that the single most powerful investment a society can make is in the relationship between children and their caregivers.

Drawing on more than three decades of neuroscience, public health, and social science, Perks explains why secure caregiver child attachment is not only the foundation of healthy childhoods but also one of the strongest predictors of lifelong wellbeing, economic productivity, and social stability. When those relationships break down, the costs ripple outward into education systems, health services, labor markets, and criminal justice systems. When they are strengthened, the benefits compound across generations.

At the center of the conversation is the Global Caregiver Forum, an inaugural intergovernmental gathering convened by UNICEF and the World Health Organization with the Government of Spain. Ministers from roughly 25 countries, alongside leading scientists and practitioners, are coming together to accelerate the global scale up of evidence based parenting and caregiver support programs.

Perks describes why these programs represent a breakthrough in public policy. A 2022 WHO led systematic review of more than 435 randomized controlled trials shows that evidence based parenting programs consistently increase nurturing care, reduce violence and maltreatment, improve children’s developmental outcomes, and significantly improve parental mental health. In other words, they deliver on child protection, early learning, and adult wellbeing at the same time.

The discussion moves from science to systems. Today, only about one quarter of countries report having widely available parenting programs, even though the interventions are relatively low cost and highly scalable. Perks explains how UNICEF and partners are working to build the global architecture needed to change that, including common frameworks, measurement tools, and coverage indicators similar to those used for vaccines and other public health interventions.

A critical theme is the return on investment. While the largest gains of early childhood support appear over decades, Perks points to growing evidence that parenting programs also generate benefits within political and budget cycles. These include reductions in low birth weight, fewer child placements in institutional care, better parental mental health, and lower productivity losses, all of which translate into tangible fiscal savings for governments.

Listeners also hear what modern caregiver support actually looks like. All families have access to support, with additional intensity for those facing higher risks due to poverty, trauma, or mental health challenges. Delivery channels range from home visiting and health systems to community hubs and digital tools, all adapted to local culture and context.

Beyond the forum, Perks reflects on a broader shift underway in global child policy. Too often, governments are presented with long lists of disconnected reforms. He argues that real progress requires focusing on a small number of interventions that are scientifically proven, politically feasible, and capable of driving multiple outcomes at once. Parenting programs and universal access to quality early childhood education sit at the top of that list.

The conversation also touches on the newly established International Day of Play, a United Nations observance led by UNICEF and UNESCO. Perks explains why play is not a luxury but a biological and social necessity that underpins learning, creativity, resilience, and human connection across the life course.

The episode closes with a powerful reminder. In a world marked by polarization and instability, the science of child development offers something rare: a practical, evidence based pathway to improve human wellbeing at scale. By investing in caregiving, attachment, and play, societies have an unprecedented opportunity to prevent trauma, and give every child the chance to grow up safe, loved, and nurtured.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

In this episode, Surita Sandosham, President and CEO of Heifer International, shares how one of the world’s most established development organizations is reimagining the fight against hunger and poverty through locally led, systems-based solutions.

With more than 80 years of experience and work spanning 19 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, Heifer International partners with smallholder farmers, especially women, to build sustainable, climate-resilient food systems. The conversation explores how farmers move from subsistence to thriving producers by strengthening social capital, building profitable value chains, and creating cooperative models that unlock market access, finance, and long-term resilience.

Surita explains why women and youth are central to transforming agriculture, particularly in contexts where women face barriers to land rights, credit, and decision-making, and where young people often see farming as an unattractive future. From self-help groups and savings models to partnerships that enable mechanization and entrepreneurship, the discussion highlights how dignity, agency, and opportunity are created at the community level.

The episode also dives into the Personal Transformation Index, a data-driven framework developed with academic partners to measure confidence, leadership, decision-making, and civic engagement among farmers. The results reveal how social capital and values-based development translate into stronger livelihoods, reduced household conflict, shared decision-making, and greater participation in local governance.

Throughout the conversation, Surita reflects on the urgency of global food insecurity, the limitations of working in isolation, and the importance of long-term partnerships with governments, multilaterals, businesses, and donors. The episode closes with a powerful reminder that ending hunger is not only about food production, but about building inclusive systems where farmers are recognized as producers, leaders, and stewards of 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. 

As we close out 2025, host Alberto Lidji analyses fifty deep-dive conversations from the past year to identify the key trends currently reshaping the social impact landscape. This special 2025 roundup episode moves beyond individual projects to explore the fundamental evolution of systemic transformation. Alberto synthesises the year’s insights into three defining shifts: the transition from isolated funding to orchestrator models, the strategic focus on structural root causes, and a fundamental evolution in how we approach leadership and burnout.

Key Themes Explored in This Episode:

• The Evolution of Collaboration: Why the retreat of traditional funding streams in 2025 turned partnership from an aspiration into a vital survival mechanism.

• The Orchestrator Model: Exploring the move toward philanthropic bridge-building, where foundations support government-led initiatives and remove systemic friction points rather than driving isolated agendas.

• Rigidity in Mission, Flexibility in Approach: Why the most effective strategies this year focused on markets and addressing systemic drivers rather than treating symptoms.

• The Grace Shift: A look at how leadership archetypes are evolving to prioritise personnel well-being and structural support as prerequisites for long-term impact.

• The Call to Agency: A concluding reflection on the power of citizen entrepreneurship and why individual action remains the ultimate antidote to global anxiety.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Cleft lip and palate is one of the most common congenital conditions worldwide, yet effective care goes far beyond repairing a visible deformity. It requires long-term, multidisciplinary support that addresses speech, hearing, dental development and psychological wellbeing.

In this episode, Brian Sommerlad, a surgeon and Chairman of CLEFT, shares four decades of experience in cleft care across the UK and low and middle income countries. Drawing on extensive work in places such as Bangladesh and Nepal, he explains why short-term surgical missions alone are not enough and how well-intentioned philanthropy can sometimes undermine local health systems.

The conversation explores what sustainable cleft care really looks like. Brian outlines CLEFT’s distinctive approach, which focuses on training local professionals, funding non-surgical roles such as speech therapists and orthodontists, and supporting multidisciplinary teams that can continue delivering care long after external support has stepped back.

Key topics include:

• What cleft lip and palate is, how common it is, and why it affects far more than appearance

• The lifelong importance of speech therapy, hearing support and dental care

• The psychological and social impact of cleft conditions on children and families

• Why teaching and capacity-building create more impact than simply doing operations

• How poorly designed NGO activity can unintentionally weaken local services

• The value of treating local clinicians, hospitals and governments as equal partners

• Practical insights into allocating philanthropic funding for long-term benefit

Brian also reflects on his own journey from medical training in Australia to international work spanning Vietnam, Bangladesh, Iraq and beyond, offering candid observations on what has and has not worked in global health over time.

This episode is a thoughtful examination of how healthcare philanthropy can move from short-term intervention to lasting change, with lessons that extend well beyond cleft care alone.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

This episode explores the work of the Roger Federer Foundation through a conversation with Maya Ziswiler, Chief Executive Officer, focusing on early childhood education, prevention-focused philanthropy, and long-term systems change.

Maya explains how the Foundation works to give children a better start in life through early and foundational learning, with the majority of its work concentrated in Southern Africa and a growing portfolio in Switzerland. In Southern Africa, the Foundation partners closely with governments and locally rooted organisations across six countries to strengthen school readiness and early learning systems. In Switzerland, it is developing an approach that uses movement to strengthen body and mind, with an emphasis on preventing mental health challenges later in life.

A central theme of the discussion is the Foundation’s data-driven School Readiness Initiative, including tablet-based learning kiosks and the Child Steps assessment tool. These tools support teachers, simplify reporting, and generate actionable data for decision making at school, regional, and national levels. Key milestones include nationwide adoption of the assessment tool in Zimbabwe and the handover of programme implementation to government authorities in parts of South Africa.

The conversation also covers the Foundation’s strategic transition, with a new strategy to be launched in early 2026. Maya reflects on the shift from a single flagship solution towards an early learning continuum, the importance of partnerships, and the role of catalytic funding in strengthening an underfunded sector.

The episode also traces Maya’s leadership journey from the private sector to UNICEF, UBS Optimus Foundation, and now the Roger Federer Foundation, alongside the opportunities and challenges of leading a foundation associated with a global sporting icon.

Fun fact: The conversation is conducted by Alberto Lidji, former CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, who interviews the CEO of the Roger Federer Foundation, offering a distinctive and collegial backdrop.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

In this episode, Guy Cave, President of the Legatum Foundation, discusses how the foundation launches and scales collaborative funds that focus on ambitious, system-level change. Rather than distributing small grants, the foundation pilots approaches with local organisations, tests what works, and—when the potential for large-scale impact is clear—spins out independent funds with their own leadership, governance and investor base.

Guy traces the journey behind four existing funds: the END Fund, focused on neglected tropical diseases; the Freedom Fund, which addresses human trafficking and modern slavery; the Luminos Fund, bringing out-of-school children back into learning; and, most recently, the Resilio Fund, which supports community-led humanitarian response through micro-grants to hyper-local groups. Collectively, these funds have mobilised more than US$1 billion.

He also introduces two current pilots that may become future funds: care reform to help children move safely from institutions into family-based care, and criminal justice reform. Throughout the conversation, Guy unpacks how new ideas emerge, how evidence is generated, how partners are brought in, and how to let go so that independent funds—and their CEOs—can thrive.

For anyone interested in collaborative philanthropy, local leadership, or building vehicles that others can support, this episode offers practical insight into sequencing, partnership, and learning at scale.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

This conversation offers an in-depth look at the evolving landscape of philanthropy, global health, and development funding, with a particular focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. The discussion examines how current geopolitical and economic pressures are reshaping what effective partnership, sustainability, and impact look like for funders, governments, and civil society.

The episode explores a wide range of thematic priorities including maternal, newborn, and child health; pediatric and adolescent HIV; early childhood development; human resources for health; and humanitarian response. It illuminates why deeply understanding country-level contexts—systems, supply chains, human capital, financing constraints, and government priorities—is central to strategic philanthropy.

A significant portion of the conversation addresses how private philanthropy can play a constructive, catalytic role amid a period of unusually rapid change in global aid flows. Topics include the risks of backsliding on key health indicators, strategies for identifying truly local and embedded implementing partners, and the importance of moving from project-based funding toward general operating support to strengthen long-term institutional capacity.

The episode also examines the realities and complexities of co-funding with other foundations, multilaterals, and bilaterals—what genuine partnership requires, how priorities are aligned, and how fragmentation can be reduced. A major highlight is the creation of the Beginnings Fund, a large-scale collaborative effort uniting several private funders to meaningfully advance maternal and newborn health across multiple countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Looking ahead, the conversation outlines both the challenges and opportunities that lie between now and 2030. It reflects on where renewed discipline, focus, and collaboration are most urgently needed, and why the current moment may also be a rare chance for long-overdue recalibration in global health and 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. 

This episode features an in-depth conversation with philanthropist Sarah Butler-Sloss, founder and chair of the Aurora Trust and member of the Sainsbury family. With more than three decades of experience in environmental philanthropy, she offers an expansive perspective on climate action, sustainable finance, regenerative agriculture, and the role of foundations in driving systemic change.

The discussion begins with the origins and evolution of the Aurora Trust, established in 1990 to support environmental and biodiversity initiatives. Sarah outlines the trust’s core areas of focus: halting tropical deforestation, advancing sustainable and regenerative farming in the UK, connecting children from disadvantaged communities with nature, improving sustainable finance systems, and supporting energy-access solutions in partnership with Ashden.

A substantial portion of the conversation examines the importance of aligning endowment investments with charitable purpose. Sarah shares the story behind the landmark Butler-Sloss vs Charity Commission case, in which she and her brother successfully argued that charitable endowments should consider mission alignment—not solely financial returns—when determining investment strategy. This judgment has since shaped UK charity investment guidance, enabling foundations to invest in ways consistent with environmental and social objectives.

The episode also explores the changing landscape of philanthropy, particularly the growing pressures on UK charities and funders. Sarah stresses the value of collaboration among donors and organisations, the importance of avoiding duplication, and the need to support both established institutions and promising early-stage initiatives. She reflects on how foundations can balance coordinated efforts with maintaining independence and openness to innovation.

Later, the conversation turns to the Ashden Awards, the global initiative Sarah founded 25 years ago to identify, celebrate, and scale exemplary clean-energy solutions. She describes their evolution from a pure award programme to a wider platform for policy influence, investment mobilisation, and global awareness-raising. Stories from the Global South and the UK illustrate how clean-energy innovators deliver powerful social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Sarah closes with a clear message for philanthropists: grants are only part of the picture. Endowments must also be deployed responsibly and strategically to advance charitable purpose and avoid undermining the very challenges philanthropy seeks to address.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

This week, The Do One Better Podcast marks a remarkable milestone: 350 consecutive episodes since its launch in early 2019.

In this special solo edition, host Alberto Lidji reflects on the joy of creating a weekly show that brings together voices from across philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, and on what it means to have listeners tuning in from every corner of the world.

Alberto shares why producing the podcast remains such a deeply rewarding experience:

• The excitement of conversation and how open, curious dialogue often leads to unexpected insights.
• The fulfilment of sharing personal learnings from hundreds of interviews and applying them to help others make a difference.
• The privilege of informing, enthusing and encouraging a truly global audience to take action and improve the world around them.
• The satisfaction of building a community that values thoughtful exchange and real-world impact.

He also reflects on the craft behind the show, from preparation and production to the care that goes into every episode, and the sense of meaning that comes from connecting with so many people who share a passion for positive change.

This milestone episode is a warm and thoughtful celebration of curiosity, purpose and connection, and a heartfelt thank-you to the guests and listeners around the world who have made the journey possible.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Featuring Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO, and Molly Morgan, Texas State Director, both from the Trust for Public Land.

They share how their organization is working to ensure that every person in the United States can live within a short walk of a park, trail, or green space. The conversation explores the strategies and partnerships that are transforming communities and connecting people to nature.

Topics include:

• Turning schoolyards into safe, vibrant community spaces

• Returning land to Indigenous tribes and protecting cultural heritage sites

• Expanding access through the national “10-Minute Walk” initiative

• How the ParkScore Index drives improvement and accountability among U.S. cities

• The social, mental health, and economic benefits of nearby green spaces

• Examples from Dallas, New York, and Atlanta showing how access changes lives

A thoughtful look at how data, design, and community engagement are reshaping the urban landscape — and why access to the outdoors is essential for everyone.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Kate Williams, Chief Executive Officer of 1% for the Planet, joins the conversation to share how a simple idea—businesses and individuals committing 1% of annual revenues to environmental causes—has evolved into a powerful global movement.

 

Founded by Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia) and Craig Matthews, 1% for the Planet has inspired thousands of companies across more than 100 countries to give back to the planet. With over $820 million certified in lifetime giving, the organization is on track to reach its first billion in donations.

 

Kate explains how the model works: from certifying members’ contributions to connecting them with vetted environmental partners across four key impact areas—Just Economies, Resilient Communities, Rights to Nature, and Conservation & Restoration. She discusses the philosophy behind giving from revenues, not profits, why that matters for lasting impact, and how companies of all sizes can integrate sustainability into their core operations.

 

Listeners will hear about:

 

• How 1% for the Planet certifies and supports its global network of businesses and nonprofits
• The creative ways companies balance purpose and profit, including in-kind and volunteer contributions
• Why strong branding and credible certification are essential to scaling environmental change
• Lessons in building community, trust, and momentum across thousands of members and partners
• Kate’s personal journey from outdoor educator to environmental leader

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

What are the real economics behind recycling and reuse—and why, despite decades of progress, are we recycling less of our growing waste?

In this insightful conversation with TerraCycle Founder and CEO Tom Szaky, we unpack the market forces, policy levers, and behavioral dynamics that shape the global waste system. Szaky explains why recycling often fails to scale, how value—not technology—determines what gets recycled, and why the world still produces more waste per person each year.

We dive into:

• The harsh truth about recycling economics: why most recyclers only process what’s profitable.

• The “Great Fiberization” trend and the myths around compostable and “eco” packaging.

• Why technology isn’t a silver bullet—and why true change must confront value and cost.

• France’s groundbreaking reuse model: a case study in regulation that works, with retailers like Carrefour leading the way.

• How policy drives innovation: the interplay between free markets, extended producer responsibility, and consumer behavior.

• A hopeful yet pragmatic look ahead to 2030, and what it will take for circular systems to thrive globally.

 

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Anna María Chávez, President and CEO of the Arizona Community Foundation, shares an inspiring look into how one of America’s leading statewide community foundations is redefining philanthropy, partnership and social impact in Arizona and beyond.

In this powerful conversation, Anna María discusses how the Arizona Community Foundation brings together individuals, corporations and nonprofits to drive meaningful change in education, affordable housing and environmental innovation. She explains how philanthropy can start as early as childhood and how anyone, from Girl Scouts to global CEOs, can play a role in building stronger, more equitable communities.

Listeners will gain insights into:

• The unique statewide model of the Arizona Community Foundation and its $1.6B in managed assets.

• Why community foundations serve as neutral conveners that unite government, business and civil society.

• Arizona’s role as a living laboratory for environmental innovation.

• How bold, risk-taking philanthropy can unlock catalytic solutions to complex social challenges.

Anna María also reflects on her own remarkable journey and why she believes the future of philanthropy lies in creativity, collaboration and community-driven leadership.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Corporate giving is more than philanthropy — it’s a strategic tool for impact. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore how companies can deploy their balance sheets, human capital, and core business capabilities to achieve meaningful social outcomes.

Our guest, Gwen Lim, Head of the Southeast Asia office and Partner at The Bridgespan Group, unpacks insights from her newly released report “High-Impact Approaches to Corporate Giving” (published September 2025). She shares what distinguishes corporate giving from other forms of philanthropy, the key trade-offs between impact and risk, and how firms can align purpose with performance.

Discover how leading corporates are:

• Navigating reputational and political risks while maximizing social good

• Leveraging business assets like data, platforms, and expertise for public benefit

• Structuring high-impact strategies through corporate foundations and internal initiatives

• Balancing short-term financial results with long-term social outcomes

• Engaging employees, investors, and customers in purpose-driven impact

Gwen also shares fascinating case studies — from Bloomberg’s data-led volunteering to DHL’s disaster logistics — illustrating how capability-led giving can transform communities.

This episode is a must-listen for corporate leaders, CSR professionals, philanthropists, and anyone curious about how business can become a force for good in an age of uncertainty.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

 

What does it take to transform a neighborhood long defined by poverty into a community of opportunity, dignity, and hope?

In this episode, Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group, shares how three organizations—the Warehouse, Reach Riverside, and Kingswood Community Center—are leading a $600 million revitalization effort in Wilmington, Delaware’s Riverside neighborhood.

Logan discusses how teens help design and run a state-of-the-art community center, why holistic redevelopment is central to breaking intergenerational poverty, and how community members themselves are shaping the vision for their future. He also reflects on personal experiences that shaped his leadership journey and explains why his ultimate goal is to work himself out of a job by building a community that thrives without external support.

You’ll hear about:

• How The WRK Group blends housing, education, health, and economic vitality into one comprehensive model.

• The story behind the Warehouse teen center, run for teens, by teens.

• The challenges and breakthroughs of creating lasting, systemic change.

• Why restoring hope is as important as bricks and mortar.

• Generational impact stories—from tragedy to triumph—that reveal what’s at stake.

This conversation is an inspiring look at what’s possible when vision, collaboration, and community ownership come together.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Philanthropy faces a “Sputnik moment” in science funding. Ari Simon, President of Tambourine Philanthropies, shares why the U.S. research system is under existential threat — and how foundations can step up now.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why labs, postdocs, and decades of data are at risk from sudden funding cuts

• Four immediate philanthropic responses to keep research alive

• How tools like recoverable grants, guarantees, and IP-based financing can bridge gaps

• Why supporting early-career scientists and researcher well-being is urgent

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Professor Jack Shonkoff, Founding Director of Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child and Director of Connecting Science + Community, joins for a powerful conversation about the future of early childhood development (ECD).

He reflects on decades of progress in making science actionable for policymakers, service providers and advocates; and shares why the next frontier must focus on the environments where families live.

From poverty and housing to access to nutritious food, clean water and social capital, Shonkoff explains why community context is the missing piece in ensuring children everywhere can thrive.

Key topics explored in this episode:

• Why ECD is a moral imperative and a foundation for a healthy, sustainable society

• How science — from neuroscience to immunology — is reshaping our understanding of child development

• Why one-size-fits-all programs fail, and how solutions must adapt to local contexts

• The misaligned incentives in philanthropy, evaluation and policymaking that slow progress

• How Connecting Science + Community is bridging research and grassroots action, with early examples of U.S. cities tackling housing, jobs and equity for children

• Why being “constructively dissatisfied” is essential for the field to keep advancing

Professor Shonkoff emphasizes that while the early childhood field has already transformed millions of lives worldwide, the work is far from finished. Real impact will come from smarter strategies, stronger communities and a commitment to caring not only for our children but for all children.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

David Reiling, CEO of Sunrise Banks, shares his entrepreneurial journey of building a mission-driven financial institution where doing good and doing well go hand in hand.

From serving immigrant communities in Minnesota to shaping global conversations on financial inclusion and financial literacy, David explains how values-based banking empowers individuals, supports local economies and drives innovation.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Jonathan Simmons, CEO of New Philanthropy Capital (NPC), joins to share a refreshing perspective on philanthropy—why it should be fun, how to grow the giving market, and what it takes to make charitable impact both strategic and joyful.

We explore:

• The origins of NPC and how it helps philanthropists make smarter decisions

• Why giving should be viewed not only as serious and rigorous but also enjoyable

• How to encourage individuals and organizations—whether wealthy or everyday donors—to engage in philanthropy

• The role of giving circles and pooled funds in driving collective impact

• Cultural and psychological barriers that hold people back from giving, and how to overcome them

• The need for stronger collaboration between charities, social enterprises and impact investors

• What government and policy can do to make philanthropy easier and more effective

From misconceptions around “bad charities” to the addictive joy of seeing your money do good, this episode is packed with insights, practical ideas and optimism. Whether you’re a seasoned philanthropist, someone just starting to give or simply curious about how generosity shapes society, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

 

What does it take to help thousands of women secure employment each year? Anna Hemings, Chief Executive of Smart Works, joins to share how this UK charity provides unemployed women with the coaching, clothing and confidence needed to transform their career prospects.

We explore:

• How Smart Works supports 10,000 women annually with interview preparation, career coaching and professional outfits

• Insights from the Smart Works Unemployment Index, an annual report examining the barriers women face when seeking work

• The biggest challenges women face in today’s labor market, from AI screening to childcare costs and workplace inequality

• What employers and policymakers can do to remove barriers and create fairer opportunities

• Smart Works’ growth strategy and why volunteer power and fashion industry partnerships are central to its impact

This episode shines a light on practical solutions that empower women, strengthen communities and benefit the wider economy.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

In this episode of The Do One Better Podcast, host Alberto Lidji sits down with David Risher, CEO of Lyft, to explore what it means to lead with purpose in one of the world’s most competitive industries.

David shares his journey from Amazon executive to nonprofit founder (Worldreader) and now CEO of Lyft, where he champions a vision of “serving and connecting.” He discusses his hands-on leadership style—including driving as a Lyft driver himself—and how listening directly to riders and drivers has shaped new innovations such as Women+ Connect, Price Lock, and on-time pickup guarantees.

We also dive into Lyft Up, the company’s initiative providing free or discounted rides to job seekers, patients, and low-income communities, and we hear about David’s philanthropic work with Worldreader and Half My DAF, which is mobilizing millions in donor-advised funds for good causes.

From navigating trade-offs between profit and purpose, to expanding Lyft’s footprint into Europe, David offers candid insights into building a values-driven company while scaling impact at massive reach.

Whether you’re in the corporate world, nonprofit space, or seeking inspiration for how business can be a force for good, this conversation is full of fresh ideas, heartfelt stories, and practical lessons.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show to help others discover these inspiring conversations.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

How do you prepare leaders to solve Brazil’s toughest challenges? Denis Mizne, CEO of the Lemann Foundation, shares how they’re eradicating illiteracy, boosting education, and developing changemakers who bridge political divides and drive real impact.

How can a country unlock its full potential by investing in both education and leadership? In this episode, Denis Mizne reveals how one of Brazil’s largest philanthropic organizations is working to eradicate illiteracy, improve middle school outcomes, and prepare future leaders to tackle complex social challenges.

We explore the Lemann Leadership Network—bringing together talented Brazilians from across the political spectrum—and learn how its fellows are making an impact in government, NGOs, academia, and business. Denis shares insights on creating constructive dialogue in polarized times, preventing brain drain, and measuring leadership impact in a meaningful way.

If you’re passionate about leadership development, education reform, social entrepreneurship, or Brazil’s future, this conversation offers actionable lessons and inspiring real-world examples from one of Latin America’s most influential foundations.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

In this thought-provoking episode, Jeff Bradach, co-founder of Bridgespan and its former Managing Partner of 21 years, reflects on the evolving landscape of philanthropy, the nonprofit sector, and civil society at large—just as Bridgespan marks its 25th anniversary.

Jeff shares deep insights into the tectonic shifts underway in 2025, from the unprecedented accumulation of private wealth to the shifting relationship between philanthropy, government, and civil society. He raises essential questions: Why isn’t philanthropic giving keeping pace with wealth? Is it a motivation issue, a “plumbing” problem, or something deeper?

We explore:

• The legacy and impact of Bridgespan’s first 25 years

• Collaborative philanthropy and trust-based giving

• The growing global push for community-driven change and localization

• How philanthropists can move from caution to action—learning by doing

• The delicate balance between rigor and trust in effective giving

• Challenges in donor expectations and the misunderstood "joy" of giving

• Why co-creation and humility—not silver bullets—are key to transformative change

Jeff also touches on the importance of grace in leadership during a time of deep uncertainty for the social sector, and how listening, learning, and shared ownership may hold more power than isolated strategy.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Eleanor Harrison, CEO of the Fairtrade Foundation, explores how ethical trade can reshape global supply chains and build climate resilience.

In this episode, she explains what it really means when a product carries the Fairtrade mark — from minimum pricing protections to the Fairtrade Premium — and how this impacts over 2 million farmers and workers worldwide.

She also discusses the challenges of maintaining equitable trade amid geopolitical instability and climate change, and shares how Fairtrade is pushing for sector-wide reform, especially in commodities like tea, coffee, and cocoa.

Learn how consumer choice, corporate collaboration, and bold data strategies can collectively drive meaningful change.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Saurabh Taneja, CEO of the Akanksha Foundation, shares how his team is transforming education in India through deep community engagement, purpose-driven teaching, and innovative public-private partnerships.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why access isn’t the biggest issue in India’s education system—but learning outcomes are

• How Akanksha schools blend social work, pedagogy, and emotional support to reshape student trajectories

• The role of India’s CSR law in driving philanthropic investment in education

• What alumni are doing to give back, and why many return to teach

This is a powerful look at how schools can become joyful, rigorous, and transformative spaces—especially for children from underserved communities.

Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

In this compelling conversation, Inger Ashing, CEO of Save the Children International, offers an unflinching examination of the state of children's rights in a world increasingly defined by conflict, climate disruption, and political fragmentation. She reflects on the historic roots of Save the Children, founded in the aftermath of World War I with a radical vision that children, regardless of nationality or political context, are entitled to rights, dignity, and protection. This foundational principle, she explains, remains strikingly relevant today.

Ashing underscores the organization's expansive reach—operating in approximately 100 countries and having supported over 110 million children in 2024 alone. But alongside the impressive scale of operations, she offers a sobering account of the challenges children face. One in six children globally now lives in conflict zones. The number of children out of school—85 million—is at its highest level ever recorded. She discusses the reversal of hard-won gains in child health, protection, and education, driven by a perfect storm of climate emergencies, armed conflicts, and a backlash against international norms, including child and women's rights.

At the heart of Ashing’s message is the belief in children’s agency. Through deeply personal anecdotes drawn from her field visits—from a 14-year-old girl raising her siblings in northern Mozambique to a boy in Pakistan rebuilding his life after catastrophic floods—she illustrates the extraordinary resilience and vision that young people bring to the most adverse circumstances. Their desire for education is not abstract; it is a lifeline, a claim to future possibility. And it is in emergencies where education is most threatened—and most needed—that Save the Children concentrates much of its current work.

Ashing emphasizes that education in emergencies is not a peripheral concern but a life-saving intervention. With donor priorities shifting and official development assistance shrinking, this work is at risk. Yet, Save the Children’s evidence-based approaches—refined over decades and adapted across diverse contexts—demonstrate what can be achieved when commitment and local engagement meet strategic investment. These “common approaches,” as she describes them, are publicly available and designed to maximize learning across the broader humanitarian sector.

In addition to its humanitarian interventions, the organization is also engaged in long-term systems change—advising ministries, shaping policy, and addressing root causes of issues such as child marriage, which affects 12 million girls annually. Ashing reiterates that addressing child protection holistically requires legislative reform, social norm change, and, critically, economic empowerment—especially through keeping girls in school.

Ashing calls on world leaders to re-center children in global priorities and urges those working in the sector to do so in genuine partnership with youth. Nothing, she insists, should be done about children without them. In the face of daunting statistics and policy setbacks, she points to a truth that holds steady: we know what works. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Emma Haddad, Chief Executive of St Mungo’s, provides a clear and thoughtful examination of homelessness in England and the work being done to respond to it. St Mungo’s, established in 1969, supports around 25,000 people each year through outreach, housing, and recovery services. Haddad explains that homelessness is not simply about lacking shelter, but often about a deeper set of issues that require long-term solutions. The organization’s mission reflects this broader understanding, aiming not just to house people, but to help them rebuild their lives.

She clarifies the distinction between rough sleeping and other forms of homelessness. Rough sleeping refers to people sleeping on the streets, while many more live in temporary arrangements such as cars, hostels, or friends’ homes. Although rough sleeping is more visible, it represents only part of the wider issue. According to Haddad, rough sleeping in England has increased significantly in recent years, driven by a shortage of affordable housing, reduced access to support services, and a fragmented policy landscape.

Most of St Mungo’s staff work directly with clients. Outreach teams operate at night or in the early morning, locating and engaging with individuals sleeping rough. These teams aim to build trust, assess needs, and help people move off the streets and into more stable environments. The process is often slow and dependent on available accommodation, individual readiness to engage, and local capacity. When space allows, people may be taken to assessment centers where more structured support begins.

The conversation also highlights the role of public services and partnerships. St Mungo’s collaborates closely with mental health providers, addiction services, the NHS, local councils, and other charities. Haddad emphasizes that homelessness cannot be solved by any one organization. Rather, it requires cooperation across many sectors, each contributing their expertise.

The episode also touches on the limits of the current system. One example is the requirement that someone must be seen sleeping rough in order to qualify for certain services, a policy that particularly disadvantages women and others who avoid visible street sleeping for safety reasons. Haddad describes this as a clear gap that needs to be addressed.

From a policy perspective, St Mungo’s uses its frontline experience to advocate for changes at a national level. Haddad points to specific challenges such as the way housing benefits interact with employment, often discouraging people from working more hours due to a sudden drop in support. She also notes the need to adjust housing benefit levels so they reflect actual rental costs, and to prevent people from being discharged into homelessness from prisons, hospitals, or the immigration system.

The discussion concludes with a focus on outcomes. While some clients do return to homelessness after a period of stability, many others succeed in moving on and rebuilding their lives. Some even return to St Mungo’s as staff or volunteers. Haddad notes that this kind of personal transformation often stems from small but meaningful interventions at critical moments. She encourages the public not to look away from homelessness, and reminds listeners that treating people with dignity and recognizing their humanity is a simple but important step.

Homelessness, she argues, is not inevitable. It is the result of choices that can be changed. Everyone deserves a safe place to live, and solutions are within reach.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Alison Covington AM, Founder and Managing Director of Good360 Australia, shares the powerful story of how her organization is “matching spare with need”—connecting businesses with surplus brand-new goods to charities and disadvantaged schools across the country.

Through a sophisticated tech platform and logistics model, Good360 creates what Covington calls “a circle of good,” ensuring that valuable products such as clothing, toiletries, household items, and furniture reach those who need them most, rather than sitting idle or being destroyed.

This isn’t about food waste—an area that has gained considerable public awareness—but about all the other categories of goods essential to daily life and human dignity.

Most consumers don’t realize the extent to which businesses, even after offering steep discounts, are left with enormous quantities of unsold products. At the same time, community organizations face constant shortages.

Good360 bridges this gap by allowing thousands of registered nonprofits to search online 24/7 for the goods they need, in the quantities they require, with options for delivery, click-and-collect, or in-store pickup.

Covington explains that while the user experience feels seamless, the technology behind the platform is extensive and custom-built, designed to manage the enormous logistical complexity of moving goods across Australia’s vast geography while minimizing environmental impact.

Matching goods as close as possible to where they’re needed helps reduce unnecessary “environmental kilometres” and maximizes the efficiency of each donation.

One standout example is Good360’s long-standing partnership with Big W, a national retailer with over 180 stores. By building a store-based model that connects local charities directly with local inventory, Good360 has enabled more than 700 charities to access high-quality goods.

For Big W, this means a single point of contact replaces hundreds of individual charitable relationships, delivering scale, compliance, and measurable social impact. For communities, it means vital resources—and dignity—reach the people who need them, where they are.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Naina Batra, CEO of AVPN, offers a forward-looking and strategic view into the evolution of social investment across Asia. With the upcoming launch of ImpactCollab, AVPN is not merely introducing a platform — it is catalyzing an infrastructure for cross-border philanthropy and capital deployment across Asia’s fragmented social impact landscape. AVPN is a social investment network based in Asia and a leading ecosystem-builder that aims to move capital towards impact.

ImpactCollab is a platform that has been designed with the support of the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It has been designed to address long-standing inefficiencies and trust deficits that hamper giving in the region. It targets a critical and under-leveraged segment: the region’s burgeoning population of centi-millionaires and high-net-worth individuals who are eager to give back but often lack the guidance, transparency, and assurance necessary to do so confidently. By functioning simultaneously as a knowledge base, a due diligence engine, and a matchmaking platform, ImpactCollab seeks to bridge the trust gap and remove systemic friction from philanthropic flows.

Batra notes this is Asia’s moment to lead. Faced with mounting social inequities, climate disasters, and reversals in gender parity and nutrition, the region demands urgent, coordinated responses. AVPN’s expansion underscores its commitment to mobilizing a pan-Asian community of social investors — from grantmakers and family offices to development finance institutions and policymakers.

An interesting feature of ImpactCollab lies in its governance maturity framework and data-driven nonprofit scorecard. These tools serve dual purposes: instilling confidence in funders while streamlining reporting burdens for nonprofits, many of whom face opaque and restrictive foreign funding environments. AVPN’s approach — aggregating capital, reducing duplicative reporting, and embedding transparency — is aimed at producing systemic change.

Batra's conviction is clear: wealth in Asia is abundant; what is lacking is a trusted, efficient conduit to mobilize that wealth toward lasting impact. ImpactCollab is AVPN’s bold answer to that challenge.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Mark Fawcett, Chief Executive Officer of Nest Invest, explores how the UK’s pension system has been transformed to serve a broader and more economically diverse workforce. Nest is the largest multi-employer pension fund in the UK, and it handles the retirement savings for nearly one-third of the UK working population. Nest Invest is the asset manager of Nest.  Fawcett offers a compelling narrative about scale, access, and purpose-driven financial management.

Nest’s core mission revolves around building financial resilience for all—an ambitious approach to investing that transcends the narrow goals of simple wealth accumulation. Fawcett discusses the profound impact of automatic enrollment, which dramatically expanded pension participation from just 10–15% of the UK workforce prior to its introduction to over 80% today. This shift has redefined the retirement outlook for millions, particularly low- to moderate-income earners, many of whom face significant income volatility and limited financial literacy.

Fawcett emphasizes the behavioral finance insights that underpin Nest’s strategy. By minimizing the cognitive burden of financial decision-making, Nest has made pension saving feel less like an anxiety-laden obligation and more like a manageable, automated part of life. A large majority of members remain in these default options, insulated from daily market turbulence, thanks to highly diversified investments across public and private markets.

Importantly, Fawcett also touches on the risks of both under-saving and over-saving. While many need encouragement to set aside more for the future, especially in the absence of emergency savings, others—particularly those closer to the poverty line—might unintentionally sacrifice present well-being for an uncertain future. Through sidecar savings initiatives and employer collaborations, Nest is investigating ways to improve short-term financial stability without undermining long-term retirement planning.

A significant part of the conversation also centers on Nest’s role in sustainable investing. The organization has embedded ESG principles directly into its default investment strategies—not as niche options, but as a core part of its offering. From renewable energy and infrastructure to affordable housing and UK enterprise investment, Nest Invest is demonstrating that doing well financially need not come at the cost of doing good. The returns, as Fawcett notes, have been competitive, underscoring the false dichotomy between performance and purpose.

This episode offers not only a powerful vision of inclusive finance but also actionable insights for policymakers, investors, and employers seeking to build systems that foster dignity, stability, and opportunity for all.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.