Who We Remember Deborah Goldstein on her Father - "Have You Asked a Good Question Today?"
We ask each of our guests a simple yet profound question: "Whose life story from your own family would you most want to have documented on film?" and "How does your family's story shape your own personal and professional legacy?"
Today's guest: Deborah Goldstein, founder of Enlightened Philanthropy
Deborah's pick: Her dad, Gersham Goldstein
Sound Bites
"I always wanted a Chesterfield coat and a bowler hat. I got the coat… but never the hat." – A charming moment from Deborah’s father, Gersham Goldstein, as he recounts hitchhiking to high school and getting rides from Brooklyn’s district attorney—an encounter that subtly shaped his future in law."
"Who knows what can happen if we're open to it?" – Deborah reflects on the unexpected twists in life, from her father’s chance encounters to the relationships that shape our futures in ways we never predict.
"Philanthropy is more than money—it’s how we show our love of humankind." – A powerful insight from Deborah about the deeper meaning of giving, emphasizing that generosity extends far beyond financial contributions.
Summary
Deborah Goldstein reflects on the life and legacy of her father, Gersham Goldstein—a brilliant tax attorney who transitioned from Brooklyn to Oregon, a natural storyteller, and a man whose love for good questions shaped those around him. Through personal memories, a moving archival recording of her father’s voice, and a deep exploration of philanthropy, Deborah shares how his influence lives on in her own work guiding families to align their giving with their values. This episode is about memory, meaning, and the unexpected ways life’s small moments—like a hitchhiked ride or a well-placed question—can change everything. Listen now for an inspiring reflection on love, loss, and legacy.
About Deborah
Deborah Goldstein is the founder of Enlightened Philanthropy, where she brings over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to support individuals and families on their philanthropic journeys. She helps clients give with confidence, create meaningful impact, and engage the next generation in collaborative giving. Deborah is also the creator of Philanthropy Camp for Women, a unique opportunity for women to explore their giving in a supportive community. In addition, she serves as the co-dean of philanthropy for the Purposeful Planning Institute.
Takeaways
- Humor and Resilience in Life’s Challenges
- Asking Good Questions is a Life Philosophy
- Legacy is More Than a Career
Join Us
Visit us at storykeep.com/podcast to learn more about how StoryKeep is preserving family histories. Subscribe on your favorite platform to catch new episodes released bi-weekly, available in both audio and video formats.
Join me, Jamie Yuenger, as we go on a journey of remembrance and discovery, celebrating the stories of those we cherish. Don’t miss our enriching journey—subscribe today and be part of "Who We Remember."
Credits
Produced by Jamie Yuenger and Piet Hurkmans. Our show’s musical intro and outro is taken from the track “Thursday” by the independent artist Nick Takénobu Ogawa. You can listen and support his music on bandcamp here