Positive Impact Philanthropy Podcast

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer speaks with Irene Pritzker, chair and co-founder of the IDP Foundation, about her groundbreaking work expanding access to education in developing countries through innovative financing models. Irene shares how a trip to Ghana transformed her philanthropic focus from medical research to education after discovering that low-fee private s...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer speaks with Christine Mack, founder of the Mac Art Foundation and co-founder of Space to Curate. Christine shares her journey from growing up between cultures in Manila and Sweden to building a creative career in New York, and how her path naturally evolved into philanthropy through motherhood, community involvement, and a deep passion...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer speaks with Syama Bunten, principal of Big Delta Capital and founder of Wealth Catalyst. Syama shares her journey from working in fashion and entrepreneurship to stepping into the world of investing and wealth building after a pivotal life transition. Through her work, she is creating spaces where women can take ownership of their fina...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer sits down with Hall Rockefeller, founder and director of Less Than Half, an arts organization dedicated to addressing the underrepresentation of women artists in major museum collections and the global art market. Hall shares how discovering that only about 15 percent of major US museum collections and roughly 3 percent of the auction...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer welcomes Marni Mandel, founder and CEO of Fundraising for Success. Marni shares her unique journey from nonprofit leadership to the tech world and back to fundraising, explaining how her passion for relationship building has shaped her approach to philanthropy. She believes that successful fundraising is rooted in authentic human conne...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer sits down with Blima Ehrentreu, founder of The Designers Group, to explore how design can be a powerful tool for social impact. Blima shares her journey from Toronto to leading an interior design firm with multiple locations, all rooted in the mission of creating spaces that truly serve the people who use them. Blima explains how desig...

In this episode, Lori speaks with two leaders whose personal stories fueled a shared mission to transform literacy access for children across the country. Robin Zikmund, co-founder of the IMSE Foundation, and Krista Gauthier, the foundation's executive director, open up about their experiences navigating the challenges of raising children with dyslexia and how those journeys led them to create sys...

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer speaks with Siobhan Frost, co-founder and CEO of Endless. Siobhan shares how a surf trip in Portugal sparked her passion to tackle plastic pollution and led her to create Endless, a sunscreen brand built on sustainability, design, and purpose. Growing up in Australia, she learned the importance of environmental stewardship early on, an...

In this episode, Lori speaks with Katie Dunn, angel investor, board director, and startup advisor, about how curiosity, access, and education drive her approach to investing and impact. Katie shares how her career in commercial real estate led her to angel investing and how she now focuses on supporting underrepresented founders while promoting accessibility and transparency in the investment worl...

In this episode, Lori speaks with Gigi Danziger, founder and investor at Eutopia Foundation, about her work creating hyperlocal philanthropic models in Hudson, New York. Gigi shares how her family history, values, and desire for community connection led her to launch initiatives such as a basic income pilot, affordable housing, medical debt relief, and the Spark of Hudson learning hub. Her story h...

Join Lori as she talks with Kate Assaraf, Founder and CEO of Dip Sustainable Hair Care, to discuss how beauty choices can spark environmental change. Most of us never realize that simply changing our choice of shampoo and conditioner can make a real difference. Discover why it's time to switch to this impactful brand and be part of creating a greener, more beautiful world!   Here are the things to...

Join Lori in this inspiring episode as she chats with Kimberly Lau, Founder and CEO of Project Rewear—a thrifting shop with a powerful mission. Many of us don't realize that something as simple as thrifting or rewearing can spark real change. Tune in to get inspired and see how you can make a difference—starting right in your own closet!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How Kimberl...

Join Lori in this inspiring conversation with Kristin Thomas, Founder and CEO of Marble Collective, an AI-powered platform designed for high-impact women leaders. Social media can be overwhelming and noisy, but Marble Collective helps you rise above the chaos. Discover how the platform connects you with the right people to amplify your voice, increase your visibility, and expand your impact — so y...

Join Lori as she sits down with Rafia Qureshi, Managing Director of Strategic Initiatives at LEBEC, a for-profit organization that's redefining how we fund change. Rafia shares powerful insights that will resonate with changemakers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone curious about using money more intentionally for greater impact.   Get ready to be inspired by real-world examples of how LEBEC is drivin...

Join Lori in this inspiring conversation with Tulaine Montgomery, CEO of New Profit, as they dive into the power of strategic partnerships that drive lasting impact. New Profit goes beyond funding, offering guidance, support, and collaboration to turn bold visions into sustainable realities. If you're passionate about making a difference, this episode shares how to build meaningful, long-term chan...

Join Lori in a conversation with Isabelle Grosmaitre, Founder and CEO of Goodness & Co., as they explore how businesses can show their contribution and impact on society. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode will leave you rethinking the role of business in creating a better world!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: The concept of "business as a f...

Join Lori in a conversation with Jessie Freschl, CEO of Freschstyle and Founder of Repurpose Wardrobe, as they explore how luxury fashion can be a catalyst for meaningful change and sustainability. This is just one powerful example of how creativity and purpose can come together to make a lasting impact!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Jessie's journey from a fashion background to...

Join Lori as she speaks with Gloria Feldt, Co-Founder and President of Take the Lead, an organization dedicated to advancing women's leadership. Gloria empowers women to embrace their power confidently, joyfully, and with bold intentions, inspiring them to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Gloria's journey in founding the organization...

Join Lori as she chats with Dana Dornsife, Founder of the Lazarex Cancer Foundation, about her inspiring journey in philanthropy and healthcare advocacy. After witnessing the challenges of accessing clinical trials and patients' financial burdens, Dana established a nationwide foundation dedicated to making a difference. Her work has had a profound impact not only on cancer patients but also on th...

Join Lori for an inspiring chat with Kate Kennedy, a writer and nonprofit consultant who founded a school in Atlanta for children without housing in 2018. With no prior experience, Kate's determination turned her vision into a reality, changing countless children's and their families' lives. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the difference one person can make!   Here are...

Join Lori for an inspiring conversation with Dianne Bailey, National Philanthropic Executive at Bank of America, as they explore the transformative power of philanthropy and the importance of generational giving. Her experiences offer a fresh perspective on the role of generosity in shaping a better future! Stay tuned!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How did Dianne's parents inspi...

Join Lori for an inspiring conversation with Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, as they explore how the foundation is dedicated to nourishing and uplifting the lives of children facing adversity. Alex delves into the profound impact of philanthropy and emphasizes the significance of starting small to create meaningful change!   Here are the things to expect in this episode...

Join Lori as she speaks with Cathy Bissell, Founder of the Bissell Pet Foundation, to discuss the foundation's unwavering commitment to supporting animal shelters and rescues throughout the United States. Cathy shares how the foundation raises awareness about the challenges shelter animals face and strives to give these animals a second chance at finding a loving home!   Here are the things to exp...

Join Lori and her guest, Louisa Li, Founder of Shanti House, as they discuss the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness and their impact on entrepreneurs. Many entrepreneurs find themselves overwhelmed with the pressures of running a business, often neglecting their mental health and personal values. Through Shanti House, Louisa is dedicated to supporting individuals in finding balance, enha...

Join Lori and her guest, Estefania Palomino, Senior Manager of Philanthropic Relations at the United Nations Global Compact, as they explore the vital role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives in today's world. Everyone has a role to play in addressing the pressing challenges of our time, and even the smallest contributions can help pave the way toward a more responsible and...