People Inspired By Purpose - Purposely Podcast

Philanthropy Impact, led by CEO John Pepin, recently joined Purposely to share their mission of inspiring generosity and impactful philanthropy. The organisation has cultivated a diverse network, including philanthropists, impact investors, trust foundations, and charities. Through training, advocacy, thought leadership, and networking opportunities, Philanthropy Impact strives to create a collaborative space for individuals with different perspectives to foster a deeper understanding. Despite its small core team of four members, Philanthropy Impact leverages volunteer support and operates remotely. It produces content, specialised training, advocacy, and networking events, It also publishes a magazine, maintains a website, and organises specialised dinners for high-net-worth individuals.  The organisation origin story traces back to 1998 as the European Association for Planning and Giving, Philanthropy Impact emerged in 2012 from the merger of three organisations with a primary focus on philanthropy. Over time, its scope expanded to encompass the broader spectrum of capital, addressing the convergence of philanthropy, social investment, ESG, and impact investing. John Pepin joined the organisation in 2014 having previously served as a consultant for various charities. Philanthropy Impact aligned with his values and passion for creating a positive impact, the organisation's focus on bringing about change and influencing cultural behavior resonated with him. Previously John Pepin founded Aperio, a for-purpose company centered on enterprise readiness and support for for-purpose organisations. Operating in Toronto and later expanding to the United States and the UK, Aperio provided consultancy services to strategically enhance organisations and explored innovative approaches, including social investments in Thailand and Indonesia. John and Purposely's host Mark Longbottom explore blended finance, where philanthropy and social investments come together. Highlighting that although some methods may seem new, similar principles have been around for centuries, showcasing the changing landscape of strategic planning and social investments. John gives his view on current trends including increasing amounts of funding without restrictions, aligning investments with values, and embracing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He points out that we're witnessing a growing awareness of the impact paradigm—weighing harm versus good—and positive developments in the sector. He also stresses the pivotal role of professional advisors—philanthropy advisors, wealth managers, and legal experts. Philanthropy Impact offers training to seamlessly integrate philanthropy into their services, assist clients on their donor journeys, and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of impact investing. Understanding the shifting dynamics of philanthropy, there's a rising emphasis on consumer duty in the finance industry. Aligning investments with values is becoming more important, especially as millennials and Gen Z expect advisors to support their values in financial decisions. Addressing challenges in philanthropy, we talk about the necessity for unrestricted funding, tackling inequities, and handling the complexities of impact investing.  'I'm optimistic, noting a positive movement, increased awareness, and a change in the giving approach.' Looking ahead, John is excited about the future of philanthropy. Key developments include a shift towards unrestricted funding, addressing inequities, and evolving perspectives among younger generations. He also emphasize the importance of trust, intuition, and maintaining a balance between rationality and logic.

This interview features the late Camila Batmanghelidjh, and it was recorded and first published on Purposely in July 2020.  Camila Batmanghelidjh, Child therapist and charity founder, born 1 January 1963; died 1 January 2024 Obituary - The Angel of Peckham Instantly recognisable in her colourful turbans and kaftans, Camila Batmanghelidjh became a familiar figure in the 2000s, as she toured TV studios to promote her charity Kids Company.  Passionate and charismatic, she highlighted the plight of thousands of youngsters in Britain's inner cities, who were being traumatised by poverty, abuse and neglect. She estimated that one in three of those that passed through Kids Company's doors slept on the floor; one in four lived in homes without tables or chairs. Deprived of affection and support, these children, she warned, were at risk of growing up into deeply damaged adults.  Her solution was to shower them with loving kindness. At her centres in London, Bristol and Liverpool, children found a daytime home where they could get everything from hot meals to therapy, said The Daily Telegraph. They were given shoes and clean underwear, helped with their homework, and taken to medical appointments. Her aim, she said, was to make unloved children feel worthwhile; and it was a principle that no one was turned away. A formidable networker, she raised tens of millions for her cause. J.K. Rowling and Coldplay were among her high-profile donors; Ruby Wax made a documentary about her; and David Cameron's "hug a hoodie" speech was inspired by her. She was dubbed the "Angel of Peckham".  Some questioned whether she enjoyed the limelight a bit too much; but her methods seemed to work, said The Times. Outside observers estimated that in the first few years of its existence, Kids Company had saved 3,000 children from going to jail or committing violent crimes. But as the charity grew (it had 500 employees at one point, and received £46m in public funding), journalists started to question whether her results were as good as she said, and why her charity was being singled out for taxpayer-funded largesse.  There were media reports about youngsters being given cash with which to buy designer clothes; and of a young man being sent on a spa break at Champneys. Then, in 2015, the media reported that the charity had mishandled sexual abuse allegations involving its users. In August that year, Kids Company collapsed, and its centres closed. The court praised her dedication, and said Kids Company would have survived had donors not withdrawn, owing to the allegations In 2022, the Charity Commission came to a different conclusion. It criticised Kids Company's "high-risk business model" and failures of oversight in some spending decisions.  However, it found that there was no case for regulatory action against any of the key players, and confirmed that there had been no "dishonesty or bad faith". At 11, she was sent to an English boarding school, Sherborne, then took a degree in dramatic arts , before studying psychology at the Tavistock Clinic in London.  She spent some time doing social work in south London before starting her charity. After its collapse, she assisted other children's projects, while fighting her legal battles.  She was unmarried, and had no children of her own. She said that when she got home to her small flat in West Hampstead after 11-hour days at Kids Company, she was quite glad to be child-free. Batmanghelidjh was unrepentant about her methods: kids who grew up "in ghettos depend on having nice things for their self-esteem", she said. The police found that the sexual abuse claims were unsubstantiated, and in 2021 the High Court cleared her and the other trustees of financial mismanagement. Camila Batmanghelidjh was born, ten weeks premature, into a wealthy Iranian-Belgian family in Tehran in 1963. She weighed 1kg, and was left with an endocrine disorder and neurological problems.  Obituary provided by The Week

Welcoming Emma Beeston back to Purposely to shed light on her latest book, "Advising Philanthropists - Principles and Practice," co-written with Dr Beth Breeze another former guest. Emma and Beth are well qualified when it comes to philanthropy thought leadership, they are also educators and prolific writers covering a range of topics related to philanthropy and giving.   While philanthropy advice has been around forever there has been very little written about the topic. A profession often underappreciated despite its significant role, their aim was to demystify the world of philanthropy advice. At the same time the book serves as a comprehensive guide, unveiling the detailed role of the philanthropy advisor, shining a light on those meeting the increasing demand from donors seeking help and guidance in their charitable work. It goes beyond the surface, exploring fundamental concepts, practical aspects, and diverse skill sets crucial for excelling in this complex job. Emma and Beth draw insights from interviews with 40 philanthropy advisors worldwide. These conversations offer unique perspectives and firsthand experiences, providing invaluable insights into this often-overlooked profession. Written for those already operating in the profession or for those curious about "Advising Philanthropists" the book traces the evolution of philanthropy advising as a recognised and vital profession, it outlines the essential attributes and skills needed for thriving as a philanthropy advisor as well as the practical advice for navigating the complexities of working effectively with donors. Emma hopes that this book will help inform and empower a generation of philanthropy advisors and therefore positively shape the future of charitable giving and impact. Emma Beeston's journey, from grappling with imposter syndrome to immense pride upon the book's release.

First featured on Purposely in July 2023, we explore Mary Rose's remarkable journey, the impact of The Fore (founded in 2017), and her mission to empower charity founders and social entrepreneurs. Mary Rose Gunn saw the need for a different kind of funding model – one that goes beyond traditional grants. Drawing inspiration from venture capital practices, The Fore provides early-stage seed capital to social entrepreneurs who are tackling pressing societal and environmental issues. By identifying and supporting promising ventures, The Fore helps these organisations unleash their full potential and create significant social impact. The Fore doesn't just offer financial assistance; it provides a comprehensive package of support. Through tailored business support and access to a network of mentors, The Fore empowers organisations to overcome challenges and thrive in their respective fields. Mary Rose Gunn understands the power of collaboration and the value of a strong support system. She speaks highly of her team and acknowledges the expertise and experience of her Board of Trustees, recognising that their collective effort has been instrumental in The Fore's success. Under Mary Rose Gunn's leadership, The Fore UK has already made a profound impact on numerous organisations. By scaling operations, enhancing capabilities, and making a tangible difference in the communities they serve, these organisations have become agents of transformative social change. The Fore UK fosters a culture of collaboration and learning, serving as a catalyst for positive and lasting impact. Mary Rose Gunn's passion for philanthropy and social change is infectious. She actively engages with individuals from various sectors, including business, charity, and the public sector. Drawing inspiration from their diverse experiences, Mary Rose embraces the power of different perspectives and recognizes the contributions of individuals working across different industries. This collaborative mindset has been instrumental in The Fore's success and positive impact. A Vision for the Future: Mary Rose's vision for The Fore extends far beyond the present. She envisions a future where The Fore supports 1000 more exceptional small charities and social enterprises. By "moving the needle," she believes that together, they can create a significant and lasting positive change. Mary Rose emphasizes the importance of changing the narrative about problem-solving, investing in communities, and embracing local solutions. She envisions a society where individuals have agency and the power to effect change from the grassroots level. Inspiring a Shared Vision: Through her remarkable journey, Mary Rose Gunn continues to inspire individuals and organisations to embrace innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a better future. Mary Rose Gunn's journey with The Fore is a testament to the power of disruptive thinking and collaborative action. Through her visionary approach, she has empowered small charities and social enterprises to reach their full potential and make a meaningful difference in society.

Welcome to the final episode of Purposely for 2023 This episode focuses on the origins of Purposely, the ‘why’ it started in the first place any why it has become one of the leading nonprofit podcasts in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. We celebrate a few of the ‘Purposely Heroes’ for 2023, founders of charities and social enterprises, those who had a dream about how they could help people or planet and then made it happen. These individuals embarked on incredible journeys of impact and purpose often with co-founders. One such person is Sasha Lockley, the founder and CEO of Money Sweetspot, a social enterprise dedicated to helping people escape the clutches of debt. Sasha's firsthand experience with financial challenges gives her a clear vision of the mission, offering hope and empowerment to many. Laurence Marshbaum, another remarkable social entrepreneur, founded 10 x 10 Philanthropy and Community Capital. His commitment to innovative fundraising and portfolio management generating income for good causes has been truly inspiring, with a significant impact on young people. Lucas Patchett, co-founder of OrangeSky, showcased an unwavering dedication to helping people experiencing homelessness and helping them to rebuild their lives and mental health. The profound impact of their work on the homeless community in Australia and New Zealand is a testament to their selflessness and dedication. Ren Fernando, co-founder of Re-Love a social enterprise focusing helping people in need to create homes in a sustainable way. Ren is driven by an unyielding passion for making a difference and her dedication to rescuing furniture and gifting it to those in need promises a positive impact on both people and the planet. Mary Rose Gunn, founder of The Fore, which is pioneering efforts to revolutionise philanthropy by supporting innovative enterprises and charities, many of them start-up by connecting capital with motivated individuals and bringing about a positive change. Kerryn Thrupp, founder of Woven Earth a phenomenal New Zealand charity that transforms empty houses into homes for survivors of domestic violence. Kerryn's lived experience fuels her passion to help families. A special mention also goes to 'for purpose' founders who also featured this year, Anna Josse, Prism the Gift Fund, Bill Murphy, Purpose Capital, Rhodri Davies, Why Philanthropy Matters?, Benjamin Janes, Trust Partnership, James Lewis, Action for Elders, Stephanie Pow, Crayon, and Angus Crowther and Neil Pharoah, Tanck as guests of Purposely and notable figures to watch out for in 2024. and from 2022 Sarah Page, Kindness Collective, Afam Onyema GEANCO Foundation, James Palmer Community Finance, Barry Coates Mindful Money, Samuel Grice, Octopus Legacy, Becky Endicott and Jonathan McCoy We Are For Good, Bridget Williams Bead and Proceed, Christine Langdon The Good Registry, Mike Seawright Relief Aid, Rachel Brown Sustainable Business Network, Dave Rouse Carbon Click, Rui Peng Critical, Hendrikus van Henbergen, John Berry Pathfinder, Steve Wickham The Giving Department and Steven Zinsli Healthnow. A massive thank all of our wonderful guests (58 this year alone), listeners, sponsors and supporters! Here's to a new year filled with purpose, inspiration, and positive impact!

Introducing Jo Taylor, the Chief Executive Officer of the Siddle Family Foundation, to Purposely. Jo sheds light on her professional and personal odyssey from the UK to Australia and the impact of her partner—a medical professional whose dreams of a life downunder set the stage for their move. We delve into her her leadership role in philanthropy and how the work she is involved in is reshaping the narrative around giving and philanthropy.  After 23 years, Jo is now happily married to her partner, and they are parents to two children. Having spent two decades in Bondi, they recently moved to the Mid North Coast region.   Contrary to her initial career plan of becoming a lawyer, Jo has emerged as a leader in the philanthropy sector in Australia. Leveraging her legal studies, her involvement in Raise & Give (RAG) during her tenure at the University of Leicester, and her experience as a fundraiser in the charity sector, Jo brings a substantial depth of knowledge and expertise to her current role   Jo shares her professional journey from lawyer to philanthropy leader. This transformation involves her engagement in 'Pay What It Takes' (PWIT), a coalition between for purpose organisations and funders aiming to redefine philanthropy and reshape the funding landscape for the charitable sector. Serving as the Chair of this Coalition, Jo and the PWIT Steering Committee drew inspiration from the impactful work of Bridgespan and Foundations in the United States, prompting crucial questions about the level of financial support provided by Australian funders. Their objective is to challenge the cycle of underfunding and organisational challenges by advocating for unrestricted funding or a 30% addition to project-based funding to adequately cover indirect costs.   A pivotal catalyst for this movement was the inquiry titled 'A Sector in Peril,' laying the foundation for collaboration among like-minded foundations. The Coalition led by Jo, and comprising Philanthropy Australia, the Centre for Social Impact, Social Ventures Australia, The Origin Foundation, and the Paul Ramsay Foundation, conducted comprehensive research, interviews, literature reviews, case studies, and workshops to address chronic underfunding of core operational expenses within Australian organizations. The vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the critical need for adequate funding.   Jo emphasises the necessity to challenge misconceptions surrounding indirect costs and advocates for a redefined evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness by funders. This paradigm shift demands courage and peer leadership within the sector, recognising the entrenched mental models ingrained in both funders and nonprofit organizations that need to be reshaped.   Despite the challenges, the Pay What It Takes movement is gaining momentum, offering optimism for a sector striving for genuine impact and change. The collaboration aims to redefine the philanthropic landscape in Australia, ensuring that organisations receive sufficient funding to effect lasting, impactful change.   Throughout her professional journey, Jo's commitment to social justice has been profoundly shaped by personal aspirations, life experiences, and the influence of her parents, particularly her mother. Her story serves as a compelling inspiration for those seeking to make a meaningful difference in the world of philanthropy.

Nick Laing joins us on Purposely Podcast to share his organisation's mission and his career journey from social worker to charity CEO.     Nick shares his journey of coming out as a gay man during a time when societal acceptance was limited. This experience played a significant role in shaping his identity and influencing his approach to life. Nick's desire to make a positive impact led him to pursue a career centred around helping others. Fuelled by a deep motivation and a strong commitment to social justice, he pursued training as a social worker and seized the opportunity to join the local health authority. Over the course of nine years, Nick took on various roles within the organisation, culminating in his position as a team leader, where he began to explore his capabilities in management.     In a pivotal move, Nick joined the New Zealand AIDS Foundation (now called the Burnett Foundation) as a general manager in April 2012. This relatively small nonprofit organisation aimed to combat the spread of HIV and provide support to individuals at risk of HIV and other sexual diseases. Nick's experience at the foundation further solidified his commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable people.    In April 2019, Nick assumed the role he holds today as CEO of Canteen Aotearoa, a cancer charity that offers psychosocial and practical support to young people aged 13 to 24 who are impacted by cancer. With approximately 4,200 young people affected by cancer in Aotearoa each year, Canteen plays a crucial role in providing much-needed support to both young people and their families.     Nick's tenure as CEO has not been without its challenges. When he first joined Canteen, the charity had been on the brink of closure due to a lack of funds. Those leading the charity at that time implemented cost-cutting measures and then embarked on hiring a new CEO. Nick stepped in with the brief of rebuilding the core team and refocusing everyone on the mission of providing the very best support on a smaller budget. Despite these obstacles, Nick's leadership and dedication have allowed Canteen to thrive and continue its vital work.     The COVID-19 pandemic presented a new set of challenges for Nick and his team. Raising funds, managing teams, and ensuring access to support for young people became even more difficult. However, Nick's ability to adapt and his team's resilience have enabled Canteen to overcome these obstacles. Nick references the charities close working relationship with Canteen Australia as crucial to their success. He also points to technology and the vital role it has played in maintaining connections and providing support during this challenging time.     Thanks to their partnership with Canteen Australia, Nick’s been able to ensure that the charity can stand at the forefront of innovation, utilising cutting-edge technology to support young individuals diagnosed with cancer in New Zealand. An example of this is their Robots Project, which has revolutionised education for young people undergoing treatment. Through user-friendly Kubi robots, these individuals can attend classes, interact with teachers and classmates, and participate in discussions, all from their hospital rooms. This initiative ensures not only continuity in their education but also helps them stay connected to their school community.     Nick Laing's leadership and commitment to supporting young people impacted by cancer have had a significant impact on the lives of rangatahi (young people) and their whānau (families). Through their support services and innovative initiatives like the Robots Project, Nick and his team have created a safe space where young individuals can find support and a sense of belonging.     Canteen continues to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer, ensuring that no rangatahi faces this journey alone. 

Welcoming Philippa Charles, head of the Garfield Weston Foundation, to Purposely, where she shares their unique approach to funding as well as her personal journey of turning her back on a corporate career to lead a charitable foundation. The Garfield Weston Foundation is not just any foundation; it has become one of the most generous and progressive family foundations in the UK. Since its inception in 1958, the foundation has donated close to a billion pounds to good causes in the UK, granting between seventy and hundred million pounds annually. Despite the size and importance of the foundation's financial resources, Philippa Charles, its leader, is known for her accessibility, humility, and empathy. She is renowned for being a straight talker and has a desire to keep things simple. The foundation was set up by the Weston Family to benefit from the proceeds of their successful businesses, which include well-known brands in the food industry. These brands range from high-end retail, such as Fortnum and Mason, to household staples like Tip Top Ice Cream in New Zealand. To ensure the support of the voluntary sector and provide opportunities for success, 80% of the Weston Family's wealth was put into a trust called Whittington Investments. This decision meant billions of pounds were dedicated to benefiting the UK in perpetuity.  Despite the significant amount of funding they provide, the foundation operates with a small team of eleven people although they have the support of the other Weston businesses. Their funding decisions are guided by their ethos rather than strict criteria, focusing on making the biggest impact in the short and long terms. Twelve years ago, Philippa made the family charter public, which outlines their ethos of being flexible, responsive, and adapting to needs. This decision to openly share their charter with the Third Sector was seen as unique and transformative. The foundation's decision-making process is informally guided by the Three C's: capacity, capability, and confidence. They consider an organisation's ability to deliver on their charitable mission, with confidence being a vital but often overlooked factor. The themes that guide the foundation's grant-making are broad, covering areas such as arts and culture, education, environment, youth, heritage, welfare, and faith-based organizations. They fund both revenue and capital costs, including core and administrative expenses. The foundation takes pride in its hands-off approach, allowing the charities they support to decide how to spend the funds. The foundation strongly believes those closest to their communities are best suited to develop solutions and approaches to address those needs. In addition to her role at the foundation, Philippa has held positions at Barclays Plc, Ernst & Young, and JM Consulting. She demonstrates her commitment to empowering women by serving as a Trustee of SmartWorks, an organization dedicated to helping women secure meaningful employment. She also oversees the Nominations Committee. Overall, Philippa Charles and the Garfield Weston Foundation have made a significant impact in the UK through their unique approach to funding and their commitment to supporting the voluntary sector.

Welcoming Sarah Ramantanis to Purposely, Sarah is the co-founder of KOS Magazine an online platform dedicated to amplifying the stories of changemakers across Australia, those who are actively contributing to their communities. From the founders of Lumni an interactive game helping people to practice self-care to All Things Equal a cafe working towards disability equality KOS Magazine is a platform aiming to inspire people to do good. Using the power of storytelling the platform aims to inspire readers to become 'changemakers' within their own communities. They illuminate the narratives of everyday heroes. Featuring an array of voices and perspectives, celebrating individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities. Spanning grassroots initiatives to innovative projects. Sarah has a background in marketing and communications for 'for-purpose' organisations significantly, not surprisingly she gained an understanding of effective storytelling and communication. Sarah has also featured as a TEDx speaker, where she delves into the strategies of effectively 'pitching oneself for a purpose-driven career in today's evolving digital landscape'. Her insights stem from personal experiences, including facing multiple rejections in job applications and adapting during the pandemic by reaching out to people and leveraging video calls for outreach and influence. Beyond her professional endeavors, Sarah actively contributes her time to various organisations voluntarily. Her involvement spans NEXUS Australia, Kids in Philanthropy, UNICEF, and The Centre of Youth Policy and Education Practice. Through these initiatives, she passionately advocates for youth empowerment and social impact. Sarah is driven as well as confident, she also committed to furthering her own personal growth and continuous learning which underscores her belief in education as a catalyst for positive transformation.

Welcoming Peter Winneke, the writer behind "Give While You Live," Peter isn't just an author; he's a seasoned 'generosity' advisor and life legacy, boasting over two decades of experience in strategic, impactful giving in Australia. His expertise spans the establishment of more than 100 philanthropic family foundations, making him an advocate of 'pragmatic guidance' in the world of philanthropy. "Give While You Live" doesn't merely shine a light on best practice giving; it's a roadmap for redefining Australia's philanthropic landscape. Winneke offers a constructive critique, pinpointing areas where the sector can significantly enhance its practices, striving for more effective and impactful giving. Before his influential role in philanthropy, Winneke carved out a niche in the corporate sphere, honing his skills in insolvency, mergers, and acquisitions for 16 years. His travels to low-middle income countries during this time ignited a fervent passion for philanthropy's potential to combat injustice and drive societal change. In his book, Winneke adopts a refreshingly practical approach, urging families with substantial wealth to reconsider their legacy through purposeful giving. His counsel is straightforward: allocate a minimum 20% of one's net worth to a family foundation devoted to charitable causes, steering away from fragmented contributions in favor of focused support. By drawing from his vast experience working with influential entities like The Myer Foundation and Philanthropy Australia, Winneke advocates for family foundations not just as vehicles for giving but as platforms for imparting values and purpose to future generations. At the core of "Give While You Live" are 35 pragmatic case studies that spotlight the joy of giving while outlining strategies to maximize the impact of donations. Winneke's goal is not merely to encourage charitable acts but to instill a culture of strategic giving that endures, leaving a lasting imprint on communities. Renowned figures in the philanthropic sphere, such as Tim Costello AO and Anna Skarbek, laud Winneke's work for its potential to reignite conversations about legacy and purpose. Costello emphasizes the book's role in rekindling hope, while Skarbek acknowledges Winneke's capacity to inspire a fresh wave of strategic giving. Book available from www.peterwinneke.com.au