The Social Change Career Podcast

Navigating the World of Work in the Age of AI: Lessons from David Timis on the Social Change Career Podcast How do you build a future-proof social impact career when AI is transforming every aspect of work? In Season 15, Episode 5 of the Social Change Career Podcast, Craig Zelizer sat down with David Timis—AI and Future of Work Leader, Global Communications & Public Affairs Manager at Generation, and passionate champion for equitable workforce development—for one of our most timely and energizing episodes yet. Together, they explored what's changing, what's possible, and concrete steps listeners can take to chart their own path in a rapidly evolving world of work. Why Take a Listen: Navigate Change Like a Pro: Discover how to chart your career—even if you're feeling overwhelmed by the rapid rise of AI, automation, and shifting job markets. Level Up Your Skills, Your Way: Uncover the most effective ways to upskill, reskill, and showcase your abilities through micro-credentials, fellowships, and unconventional pathways. Make Your Career Future-Proof: Get straight talk on how combining people skills, tech know-how, and real-world experience can set you apart, no matter your field. Turn Language and Curiosity into Superpowers: See why speaking multiple languages, embracing intercultural exchange, and following your curiosity are secret weapons for building a global career. Rethink the Value of Education: Hear his candid take on when to pursue graduate school, how to access top scholarships, and if a traditional degree still matters. Unlock the Power of Community: Find out why volunteering, fellowships, and international programs aren't just résumé boosters—they're launchpads to impact. Stay Grounded—and Inspired—About the Future: Explore the biggest opportunities and very real risks of AI, and how you can keep your values, purpose, and agency at the core of your work. Learn from a True AI and Future of Work Leader: Follow David Timis 's compelling journey from UN youth delegate to Google to shaping global policy at Generation, and hear how he became a sought-after speaker, coach, and mentor. About David: He brings hands-on leadership at the intersection of AI, the future of work, and social impact. As a workforce development expert at Generation, AI and Future of Work Leader, and seasoned advocate, he has shaped pivotal conversations on talent, equity, and innovation for vulnerable populations. His career path—from the UN to Google and the World Economic Forum—offers practical wisdom for anyone serious about meaningful work in the digital era. PCDN.global News Check out the 200 + other episodes of our Award-Winning Social Change Career Podcast, featuring innovators, sector leaders, and changemakers from over 30 countries. Become a member of the PCDN Career Campus for daily access to curated job opportunities, community networking, expert-led workshops, and weekly office hours—the go-to space for impact careers. Listen, learn, and accelerate your career for social change Resources Mentioned Generation – Skilling and employment nonprofit where David works PCDN – Transforming social impact careers and connecting changemakers Blue Dot Impact – Upskilling platform in AI strategy and governance LinkedIn Learning – Micro-credential and online learning hub Fulbright Program – Prestigious international exchange scholarships Chevening Scholarships – UK government scholarships Central European University – International master's/PhD programs with scholarships Erasmus+ – EU study/staff exchange funding Profellow – Fellowship/scholarship database DAAD Scholarships – German Academic Exchange Service scholarships UN Volunteer Program (UNV) VSO International – Global development volunteering Exponential View by Azeem Azhar Ethan Mollick, Co-Intelligence Benedict Evans Newsletter The Transformer Newsletter AI Economics Brief by Windfall Trust Brussels AGI Collective – AI/AGI community in Brussels David's LinkedIn profile – Comprehensive list of micro-credential courses and recent work

Ever wondered what it looks like to blend storytelling, journalism, and global development into a dynamic career? This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features Emma Smith, a freelance journalist whose bylines include Devex, The New Humanitarian, and The Guardian, interviewed by host Craig Zelizer. Emma shares her journey from Scottish classroom inspiration, through navigating Masters programs, to forging a unique path at the intersection of communications and impact. Why You Should Listen: Behind the Scenes of Global Development Journalism: Learn what it's really like to pitch stories, build a career in freelance journalism, and navigate both editorial independence and communications roles within major NGOs and UNESCO agencies. Career Detours & Bridges: Discover how studying journalism and working for child rights organizations shaped Emma's transition to international reporting, even when the path wasn't always clear. Finding Your Niche: Hear Emma compare the distinctions—and overlaps—between journalism, communications, and PR, plus actionable advice to help you choose the training and sector that fits your goals. Work-Life Realities in Freelance Media: Get honest reflections about the pressures, portfolio-building, and practicalities of freelancing: from writer's block to making rent, Emma shares hands-on strategies for resilience and creativity. The Power and Purpose of Storytelling: Explore Emma's thoughts on balancing advocacy, critique, and hope in reporting; learn how stories can make an impact, start conversations, and keep vital global issues in the spotlight. Resources & Further Reading: Devex – Leading platform for global development news and jobs The New Humanitarian – In-depth humanitarian news and analysis The Guardian – Global Development UNESCO – Emma's communications work reference Journal Portfolio – Platform Emma uses for her writing portfolio LinkedIn – Emma's preferred professional platform and a source for journalism opportunities Pulitzer Center – Grants, fellowships, and reporting support Rory Peck Trust – Resources and support for freelance journalists Solutions Journalism Network Crisis Reporting Pulitzer Center Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) Rest of World – Focuses on global technology reporting, with strong support for local journalists Global Press Institute (Closing, but see their Language and Style Guide) National Geographic – Inspiration for storytelling and visuals Guardian Magazine – Long-form global development features Recommended platforms for finding journalism grants and calls for pitches: Journalism.co.uk, Journo Resources Bio: Emma Smith (she/her) brings years of experience in communications, journalism, and development to her work. Originally from Scotland and now based in Barcelona, she has held roles from child rights NGO volunteer to UN communications lead and currently works as a freelance journalist covering global development's most pressing themes. Her storytelling bridges policy, human rights, migration, health, and more—always seeking to highlight the complexities and realities of change. PCDN.global News Check out the 200 + other episodes of our Award-Winning Social Change Career Podcast, featuring innovators, sector leaders, and changemakers from over 30 countries. Become a member of the PCDN Career Campus for daily access to curated job opportunities, community networking, expert-led workshops, and weekly office hours—the go-to space for impact careers. Listen, learn, and accelerate your career for social change

En este episodio especial, Craig Zelizer conversa con Johana Hoyos, líder, docente e investigadora colombiana, sobre su inspiradora trayectoria en el desarrollo de proyectos de sostenibilidad, equidad e innovación social en algunos de los territorios más vulnerables del Sur Global. Johana comparte cómo su sensibilidad se ha convertido en su superpoder, permitiéndole conectar profundamente con las comunidades y catalizar cambios con un enfoque de triple impacto: social, ambiental y económico. Por qué deberías escuchar & lo que exploramos: Tras las huellas de una carrera de impacto en Colombia: Descubre el recorrido profesional de Johana Hoyos, desde sus estudios en ingeniería de diseño de producto hasta liderar iniciativas de regeneración territorial y trabajar con comunidades rurales en contextos de pobreza, conflicto armado y crisis climática. Proyectos de triple impacto y colaboración comunitaria: Aprende sobre el proyecto Efecto Cacao, un ejemplo de intervención integral que combina el empoderamiento de mujeres, el desarrollo local y la sostenibilidad ambiental, mostrando cómo alianzas estratégicas pueden transformar la calidad de vida y generar soluciones adaptadas a las realidades del territorio. Navegando retos, regeneración y nuevas economías: Profundiza en los desafíos de trabajar en contextos complejos, el papel de la empatía y el trabajo interdisciplinario, y cómo la verdadera innovación social involucra volver al conocimiento ancestral y fortalecer redes locales de apoyo, colaboración y cuidado. Recursos recomendados y enlaces clave: LinkedIn de Johana Hoyos LinkedIn de Reversible Life Comunidad global de PCDN Living Building Challenge Minciencias (antes Colciencias) Efecto Cacao Regenera Community Este episodio es una invitación a reflexionar sobre el rol del desarrollo internacional desde adentro, el valor de la sensibilidad y la colaboración en los proyectos sociales y ambientales, y cómo podemos cocrear un futuro más justo y regenerativo a partir del territorio.

Episode 2 of Season 15 dives into the fast-evolving world of social impact careers in emerging markets with Ann-Elise Francis—venture builder, impact investor, and innovator at Rippleworks. Hosted by Craig Zelizer, this conversation tracks Ann-Elise's unique career journey from global studies and teaching in Bangkok to hands-on work scaling ventures across Africa and Latin America. Listen for practical insights on growing inclusive businesses, advancing financial inclusion, supporting women entrepreneurs, and navigating the realities of impact-driven work across complex environments. Why Take a Listen: Scaling Impact Ventures in Challenging Markets: Follow Ann-Elise's trajectory from education to driving growth at Turaco, AZA Finance, and other ventures. See how she expanded micro-insurance and financial services for low-income communities and SMEs across Africa and Latin America. Funding & Inclusion—The Field Perspective: Candid discussion on the realities of startup funding, impact investing, and the hurdles women founders encounter in African markets. Ann-Elise shares her observations from angel investing and advice for those evaluating impact opportunities. Ecosystem Building for Sustainable Change: Concrete approaches for tackling operational challenges, building partnerships, and determining when external investment makes sense. Ann-Elise covers what locally led innovation demands for scale—and how capacity building fits in. Insider View on Rippleworks: Get a look into how Rippleworks works with ventures at critical growth moments, offering operational support and funding across sectors and geographies. Resource Section & Links Some key resource mentioned in the episode Rippleworks Foundation – Support for scaling social impact ventures, operational expertise, funding opportunities, and curated jobs. Women Who Build Africa – Network, events, and connections for women founders and tech entrepreneurs across Africa. Nairobi Business Angel Network (NaiBAN) – Angel investing group focused on African startups. Astia Angels – Investor community supporting women-led companies. Devex – Global development news and resources. TechCabal – Insights and reporting on Africa's tech sector. Bio Ann-Elise is an impact-driven leader, venture builder, and investor passionate about advancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment. With over a decade of experience scaling ventures and high-impact initiatives across Africa and Latin America, she specializes in operational strategy, market expansion, and investment readiness, helping ventures thrive in complex, emerging markets. She has led growth, partnerships, and operations across financial services, health, and climate resilience, with a proven track record of securing multi-million-dollar investments and structuring high-value collaborations that drive sustainable impact. Currently, Ann-Elise serves as Portfolio Sourcing Manager at Rippleworks Foundation, where she identifies and supports social ventures globally poised for scale. Previously, she was Head of Growth at Turaco, expanding inclusive insurance to over 1 million low-income customers. She also co-founded LendHer Capital, an impact fund supporting African women entrepreneurs. A 2023 Acumen Fund Fellow, she has also held key roles at AZA Finance, KadAfrica, SHONA, and Bpeace, driving SME growth and building high-impact ecosystems through strategic capital and partnerships. 🎧 Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🎙️ Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

Episode 1 of Season 15 features a conversation with Kajsa Hendrickson, innovation and sustainability expert, partnership architect for People and Planet, and a dynamic bridge builder working across government, academia, nonprofits, and the private sector. Host Craig Zelizer explores Kajsa's inspiring journey from international conflict studies to sustainability leadership, sharing honest advice and actionable steps for anyone interested in building a meaningful, resilient career in sustainability and social impact. Why Take a Listen & What You'll Discover: Kajsa's Global Career Rooted in Impact and Adaptability: Discover how Kajsa's time abroad—including living through political upheaval in Thailand—ignited her passion for the edges where peace, conflict, and environmental sustainability intersect. Kajsa reflects on her academic background (BA in Global Politics, Washington State University; MA in Peace and Justice, Kroc School at University of San Diego), her decade of diverse experience, and why adaptability and proactive learning are career essentials. Grad School, Skills, and Navigating Sector Transitions: Kajsa gives real-world guidance on deciding whether graduate school is right for you—how to evaluate programs, leverage alumni networks, and combine academic experience with project management, stakeholder engagement, and fundraising chops. She shares highlights from roles with the Tennessee Valley Authority, Southern Company, Schneider Electric, and the Center for Sustainable Energy, plus advice for those navigating sector transitions. Sustainability Jobs, AI Disruption & Staying Sane: Get an inside look at the future of sustainability jobs, the disruptive influence of AI, and why skills like project management and stakeholder relations matter more than ever. Kajsa offers strategies for building resilience and sustaining hope while working for social and environmental justice—even amidst daunting challenges. Ready for real insights from a working sustainability leader? Check out resources mentioned in the show such as PCDN.Global sustainability podcasts like Volts and Bloomberg Green, and Kajsa's LinkedIn for career tips. Don't forget to explore over 200 episodes of Social Change Career Podcast for even more honest conversations with impact innovators from around the world—and subscribe and rate the show to help us reach more changemakers! Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

Why take a listen? If you're serious about building a high-impact career at the intersection of public-private partnerships, diplomacy, and sustainable development—or just curious about what it takes to make real change happen—this episode is for you. Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with Marcela Ochoa Bernal, a global leader with deep experience in shaping policy, building international partnerships, and delivering impact that lasts. From playing "bankers" as a child in Colombia to influencing sustainable development strategies across borders, Marcela's story is both inspiring and practical for anyone considering their next steps in social impact. What you'll learn Systems Change in Action How Marcela has worked across government, NGOs, and the private sector to shape systems for good—leading programs that drive impact at both local and international levels. Funding Demystified Her insider's perspective on how development funding really works, from Geneva boardrooms to grassroots communities, and what it takes to make resources deliver results for people. Sustainable Impact & Real Challenges Candid reflections on keeping projects alive beyond funding cycles—and why resilience, education, and mindset are as important as money. Global Career Insights From Universidad Externado de Colombia to Seoul National University, Marcela's career path offers lessons in building bilateral and multilateral partnerships, winning competitive fellowships, and navigating international education. Building a Resilient Career (and Staying Sane) Marcela shares how she sustains hope and energy by staying connected to community, purpose, and the power of networks. About Marcela Ochoa Bernal Marcela Ochoa Bernal is a Colombian leader in diplomacy, development, and systems change. With a career spanning government service, nonprofit leadership, and multilateral cooperation, she has focused on designing and implementing programs that connect policy with people. She studied law at Universidad Externado de Colombia and completed graduate studies at Seoul National University, supported by prestigious international fellowships. Her work has included leadership roles with the British Embassy in Colombia, engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners, and advising on sustainable development, education, and inclusive growth. Marcela has also collaborated with initiatives such as Corporación Antioquia Presente, ProAntioquia, and has contributed to global policy through the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC). Her approach combines rigorous policy knowledge with grassroots understanding, making her a bridge-builder across systems and cultures. Resources & Links Mentioned Marcela Ochoa Bernal on LinkedIn PCDN.global Social Change Career Podcast — Nearly 200 Episodes British Embassy in Colombia Chevening Scholarships Fulbright Program Rhodes Scholarship DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford ProFellow KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) Universidad del Norte Corporación Antioquia Presente ProAntioquia OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) PCDN Career Campus — Join for daily access to jobs, community, and learning English No Speak Pues Campaign (Medellín – via ProAntioquia collaboration) 🎧 Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🎙️ Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

Season 14, Episode 12 of the Social Change Career Podcast spotlights Natalia Uribe—architect, artist, and founder of Urban World Matters. From her creative roots in Medellín to delivering transformative urban projects on four continents, Natalia's career is a story of purpose, resilience, and a commitment to empowering local communities and youth in the built environment. Why take a listen? Natalia shares honest reflections, practical tools, and visionary thinking for anyone passionate about cities and social change. If you care about creating better urban spaces, influencing local action on a global scale, or forging a more meaningful career—this episode is packed with fresh ideas and real-world advice. What you'll learn: From Medellín to the World: How Natalia turned her drive for freedom and creativity into an international career, blending arts, architecture, and systems thinking to tackle urban challenges in over 25 countries. Making Participation Real: Concrete examples of genuine community engagement, including her Journey Lab approach that empowers youth and neighborhood actors to co-create solutions that last. Urban World Matters in Action: Get the inside scoop on her ambitious platform's work—like their youth labs, global engagement programs, and how you can plug in as a partner, expert, or supporter. Careers & Resources: Natalia breaks down the different global career paths in urban action—architecture, policy, planning, placemaking—and shares plenty of resources for learning and networking. Resources in the episode: Connect with Natalia Uribe on LinkedIn Urban World Matters PCDN.global World Economic Forum The World Bank UN-Habitat UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) ISOCARP (International Society of City and Regional Planners) The DNA of Cities podcast Senseable Cities podcast Whether you're working in cities, dreaming of a global impact career, or want to see what's possible when design and social action meet, this episode brings stories and insights you'll want to carry forward. About Natalia Uribe Natalia Uribe is an architect, artist, and urbanist with over 20 years of international experience. She specialises in cities, with advanced studies from the London School of Economics (LSE). Her work spans regional strategies, urban regeneration, and small-scale interventions across the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, covering more than 25 countries. Her career bridges design, social ecosystems, and environmental sustainability. She has led multidisciplinary teams at globally recognised organisations including Benoy, Gillespies, and AFK, where she delivered award-winning masterplans and urban design projects in collaboration with NGOs, public institutions, and private sector clients. In 2023, she founded Urban World Matters, a global platform where design, local action, and global impact investment converge to improve quality of life and protect life on Earth. Rooted in the Sustainable Development Goals, UWM champions local leadership and youth engagement through initiatives like the Future Urban Crafters and Journey Lab programs—opening access to sustainable urban services in underserved communities and empowering youth to address local challenges. Under Natalia's leadership, Urban World Matters aims to open 100 Youth Labs by 2030, connecting grassroots action with a global network of experts and redefining how cities evolve into sustainable ecosystems. Based in London, Natalia leads with a global mindset and is committed to mentoring emerging leaders in sustainable urbanism. PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode features Hun Taing, an executive leader, innovator, coach, and Cambodian genocide survivor, sharing her extraordinary journey of building a career at the intersection of justice and healing. Drawing from over 20 years in labor rights, public health, civil rights, and organizational transformation, Hun opens up about personal resilience, the power of humanizing conflict, and practical strategies for meaningful impact in turbulent times. Why Take a Listen Hun's story as a Cambodian genocide survivor and refugee—and how her lived experiences instilled a lifelong dedication to equity and healing. Actionable insights on entering and advancing in social change careers, including labor organizing, conflict transformation, DEI, and public service. Navigating challenges to equity and inclusion in today's climate, and strategies for advocating sustainable change in bureaucratic systems. Hun's career trajectory from activism and the labor movement (SEIU, ACLU) to systems-level inclusion and leadership consulting via Training for Transformation. The transformative role of mindfulness, art, and community-based programs (like healing gardens for refugee elders) in building resilient organizations and individuals. Advice for selecting values-aligned advanced education and tips for job seekers managing uncertainty in competitive markets. Resources on healing, art, and reconciliation, including Hun's master's thesis and research in Cambodia. Practical encouragement for working within, on, or around systems, and tools for sustaining yourself and your community in uncertain times. Featured Resources Mentioned in the Podcast Memories of Cambodia (Hun's Story on YouTube) Training for Transformation, LLC SEIU (Service Employees International Union) ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) School for International Training (SIT) "The Way Out Is In" podcast (Thich Nhat Hanh/Plum Village) Connect with Hun on LinkedIn About Hun Taing: Hun Taing (she/her) is passionate about building healthy and effective organizations to lead meaningful change. For more than twenty years, she has served in executive leadership roles, driving organizational transformation in labor rights, environmental justice, civil rights, and public health. She finds fulfillment in coaching social change leaders to identify and transform behavior patterns that are hindering their goals. Her work centers on aligning policy, people, and practice to build inclusive, mission-driven institutions. She is a Chinese-Cambodian genocide survivor and refugee, married to a Black man from Oakland, and raising three children. Joy comes from mindfulness, gardening, and deep connections with people and nature. PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a thoughtful and practical conversation between Craig Zelizer and Brad Smith, founder of Rootstock Philanthropy and the Philanthropy Network. Brad's entry into fundraising was unplanned—driven by financial necessity—but evolved into a decades-long career advising institutions like MIT, the Portland Museum of Art, Suffolk University, and the Partnership on AI. In this episode, Brad shares hard-earned lessons on how to build a meaningful and sustainable career in philanthropy, even amid burnout, changing donor landscapes, and rising ethical questions. What the episode covers: • How to enter the fundraising world without prior experience • Why early-career professionals should prioritize mentorship and learning environments • Behind-the-scenes lessons from major campaigns at institutions like MIT • How to assess nonprofit culture and avoid burnout • Building authentic donor relationships grounded in ethics and gratitude • Clarifying the roles of fundraising, development, and advancement • The limits of philanthropy without systemic public policy change • How AI and tech are shaping (and challenging) the future of fundraising Resources and links mentioned in the episode: • Rootstock Philanthropy – Brad's consultancy focused on campaign strategy, coaching, and organizational growth https://www.rootstockphilanthropy.org • The Philanthropy Network (LinkedIn Group) – A free global community of over 120,000 nonprofit and fundraising professionals https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13605390/ • The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist – A foundational book on aligning money with purpose and humanity https://soulofmoney.org/books/ • Wealth in Families by Charles Collier – A guide to values-based family giving and stewardship https://www.charlescollier.info/book • Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas – A critique of how elite philanthropy often perpetuates inequality https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781101972670/winnerstakeall • Trust-Based Philanthropy Project – A resource hub for funders and nonprofits advancing equity and transparency https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/ • AFP Global (Association of Fundraising Professionals) – The professional home for fundraisers, offering certifications, trainings, and ethical standards https://afpglobal.org/ • Philanthropy.Network – Brad's digital platform offering curated content and updates for fundraising leaders https://philanthropy.network • Philanthropy Network Academy – Online learning and cohort-based development for fundraisers and nonprofit professionals https://www.philanthropy.network/academy About Brad Smith Brad is the founder of Rootstock Philanthropy, a global fundraising and strategy consultancy working with mission-driven organizations. He also leads the Philanthropy Network, a 120,000+ member learning community. His clients include MIT, World Horse Welfare, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Partnership on AI. Whether you're new to fundraising, considering a career shift, or leading within a nonprofit—this episode delivers candid insights and practical tools for building a career with purpose. PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode of The Social Change Career Podcast features Bethany Hull, a global finance expert with over 15 years of experience across sovereign debt, venture capital, and impact investing. Her career has taken her from rural Missouri to leading projects across Latin America and Asia—working in English, Mandarin, Spanish, and Portuguese. Bethany's path challenges conventional ideas of what a finance career looks like and shows how language, agility, and purpose can shape meaningful work. Why Take a Listen Learn how a career can evolve through unexpected roles and geographic pivots—and how to stay open to the opportunities that follow. Hear how finance can be used as a tool for inclusive development, not just profit. Understand core finance concepts—venture capital, blended finance, climate investment—without the jargon. Explore emerging sectors like employee ownership and agricultural finance, and where new opportunities are growing. Get concrete advice on selecting graduate programs, building essential financial skills, and navigating careers at the intersection of finance and impact. Resources and Links from the Episode Bethany Hull on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanyhull/ Bethany's New: Global Finance Jobs https://globalfinancejobs.beehiiv.com/subscribe ImpactAlpha – News and trends in impact investing https://impactalpha.com/ FT Alphaville – Markets and economics analysis https://www.ft.com/alphaville Bloomberg Odd Lots Podcast https://www.bloomberg.com/odd-lots Ownership Works – Equity and employee ownership models https://www.ownershipworks.org ICMA – Capital market certifications and training https://www.icmagroup.org VC University https://venturecapitaluniversity.com/ Venture Deals Course https://venturedeals Capital Isn't (Podcast) https://www.capitalisnt.com/ The Salt Path Trilogy (Books by Raynor Winn) More from PCDN Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com About Bethany Hull Bethany Hull is an international finance professional with 15+ years of experience across sovereign debt, early-stage venture capital, and impact investing. She has worked throughout Latin America and Asia, leading cross-functional teams and managing complex initiatives in multilingual, multicultural environments. A graduate of The Fletcher School's Master's in International Business, she is fluent in Mandarin, Spanish, and Portuguese, and is passionate about using finance and entrepreneurship to support inclusive economic growth.