What Gives?

Hosted by Viv Tran

Business Education Society CultureInterviews guests

Episodes

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EN-US

About the show

The What Gives? Project hopes to create a space where the social impact and philanthropic community can share, inspire, and connect through audio storytelling. Because it can feel daunting and discouraging discussing all the issues that affect our communities, the audio storytelling that WGP does aim to help listeners go beyond the mission statements of organizations, learn solutions from those closest to the problem, empathize through powerful stories, discover what matters to them, and find ways to share their own gifts. If you are seeking to get involved in a cause that speaks to you or you are looking to learn about community solutions to our most pressing social and humanitarian issues, tune in monthly at What Gives?

Listen to episodes

33 recent

35 min

S03 EP11 - The Heart of DEI: Beyond Credentials - Chiany Dri of The Inclusion School

In this episode, we are joined by Chiany, the founder of the Inclusion School, to explore the transformative potential of humanizing the DEI industry. Chiany shares her profound insights on how this shift within DEI initiatives can create more compassionate and effective frameworks beyond credentials, metrics, and quotas. We delve into practical strategies for implementing these approaches, ensuring that inclusivity goes beyond mere policy or statistics to become a deeply lived experience.We also discuss the critical intersections of DEI with all social issues and learn why these initiatives are essential for fostering equity and justice in our communities and beyond. Through this conversation, you’ll understand the profound impact of an embodied DEI framework and how it can drive meaningful and sustainable change across various environments, from workplaces to educational institutions. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to revolutionize DEI efforts through a holistic and humanistic lens and join us in the movement towards creating more equitable and inclusive spaces for all.You can find The Inclusion School here:https://theinclusionschool.com/

31 min

S03 EP10 - Teaching the Next Generation Philanthropy - Meg George of George Philanthropy Group

Join us in a thoughtful conversation with Meg George, President of the George Philanthropy Group and children’s book author, as we delve into the art of teaching the next generation about the essence of giving and the evolving landscape of philanthropy. In this episode, Meg shares her deep expertise and personal journey in the world of philanthropy. We explore key questions surrounding how to instill the values of generosity and empathy in young minds and how these principles shape the future of giving. Meg provides invaluable perspectives on the evolving nature of philanthropy and we discuss innovative approaches and strategies that can inspire and engage the next generation to become active contributors of change. Tune in as we uncover new pathways to inspire young hearts and minds toward a brighter, more compassionate world.You can find the George Philanthropy Group here:https://www.georgephilanthropy.com/

32 min

S03 EP9 - Beyond the Spectrum: Navigating Neurodiversity - Alyssa of You Me Neurodiversity

It's Neurodiversity Awareness Month! So for this month's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of neurodiversity and explore how we can better celebrate and integrate diverse neurological experiences into our society. Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavior. Our conversation unpacks the misconceptions surrounding neurodivergence and highlights the strengths and unique perspectives that neurodiverse individuals bring to our communities.Our guests share personal stories and professional insights, illustrating the importance of moving beyond mere tolerance towards genuine celebration of neurodiversity. We explore the role of awareness, destigmatization, and social interactions in promoting inclusivity for all neurotypes. From adapting educational approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles to intervention strategies that value cognitive diversity, we explore tangible ways to foster acceptance and appreciation for neurodiversity.Join us as we delve into neurodiversity and discover how embracing neurodiversity can lead to a more compassionate and innovative society. Whether you are a parent, educator, employer, or simply curious about understanding diverse minds, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building a world where everyone's unique neurological makeup is respected and celebrated.You can find You Me Neurodiversity here:https://linktr.ee/youmeneurodiversity

37 min

S03 EP8 - Power to the Working People - Elana & Teresa of Rural People's Voice

In this episode, we delve deep into the often-overlooked realm of rural politics and the strategies behind building political power in these communities. Join us in conversation with Elana Mainer and Teresa Bendito of Rural People’s Voice, seasoned advocates for rural empowerment.Together, we uncover the challenges of rural political dynamics, sharing stories about organizations like Rural People’s Voice reshaping the narrative and driving change in areas often overshadowed by urban centers. From cultivating local leadership to forging alliances across diverse communities and landscapes, this episode offers a roadmap for harnessing the untapped potential of rural America.Whether you're a rural activist, community leader, or simply curious about the power dynamics in America's heartlands, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in as we sow the seeds of political empowerment and cultivate a future where rural voices are heard loud and clear.You can find Rural People's Voice here:https://ruralpeoplesvoice.org/IG: @rural_peoples_voiceFB: https://www.facebook.com/ruralpeoplesvoice

30 min

S03 EP7 - Find Your Place in the Ecosystem - Jazz Kerr, Farm School NYC

In this episode "Find Your Place in the Ecosystem," we delve into urban agriculture and the way it can fill the gaps in our food systems. Meet @Farm School NYC, an organization with the mission to train NYC residents in urban agriculture, build self-reliant communities, and inspire positive local action around food sovereignty and social, economic, and racial justice.Join us as we sit down with Jazz Kerr to unpack food access, health, climate, racial, and social justice, and how we have the opportunity to support he folks addressing these issues at urban community gardens or farms near you. Discover the stories of individuals and communities who work to bridge the gap between urban residents and the sources of their sustenance and health. We'll uncover the ripple effects of urban agriculture on public health, community development, environmental sustainability, and social justice. In discussing all the benefits of urban agriculture, we can't forget to uplift the ancestors that guide us in this work, as well as the community that stewards it now: @rocksteadyfarm @riseandrootfarm @catalystcollaborativefarm @sweetfreedomfarm @comidapalpueblo @southbronxfoodhubcollective @ayniherbfarm @bxpemarketTune in to this episode to learn how urban agriculture is not only feeding, nurturing and seeding hope for a greener, more equitable future in our communities.You can find Farm School NYC here:https://www.farmschoolnyc.org/IG: @farmschool_nycFB: https://www.facebook.com/farmschoolnyc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/farm-school-nyc/

42 min

S03 EP6 - Decolonizing Grief - Kayla Carter & Carmen Galvin, The BIPOC Death & Grief Talk

In this powerful podcast episode, join us on a journey of introspection and empathy as we explore the theme of decolonizing grief. Our conversation delves into the intersection of cultural heritage, generational trauma, and the deeply personal experience of loss. We engage with insightful stories and perspectives, shedding light on the impact of colonial legacies on diverse communities' grieving processes.Together with death guides, Kayla Carter and Carmen Galvin, we navigate the complexities of mourning in a world shaped by colonial histories. From reclaiming traditional mourning practices to fostering healing spaces, we discuss strategies for healing and understanding our messy grief. This episode invites you to reconsider how navigate loss. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and compassionate approach to grief.BIPOC Death & Grief Talk is a collective care group that supports BIPOC folks through grief and loss.You can find them here:IG: @bipocdeathgrieftalk

30 min

S03 EP5 - Solidarity with the South - Sandra Silva, Thousand Currents

This month, we are taking a global lense on things! We caught up with Sandra Silva, Regional Director of Latin America and the Caribbean at Thousand Currents, as she gives us a lesson in climate justice, economic justice, and food sovereignty. Since 1985, Thousand Currents resources frontline, grassroots, and social movement groups and communities in Africa, Asia & the Pacific, and Latin America & the Caribbean. They serve as a pioneering example of how philanthropy can build trust and follow the lead of movement and community partners.If you are interested in learning about movements in the global south and the opportunities to build solidarity from wherever you are, tune in!You can find Thousand Currents and Silva here:https://thousandcurrents.org/IG: @thousand_currents or @dritasilvaX: @1000currents or @dritasilvaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thousandcurrents/

32 min

S03 EP4 - Generations of Giving - Andine Sutarjadi, 21/64

Happy National Philanthropy Day!As volunteers, donors, donor advisors, and philanthropists, there are many reasons we give (and even more causes to give to), but what truly connects us to our giving? Maybe we are giving to the communities from which we originate. Or maybe it's religious or obligation or tradition or location. Or maybe we are grappling with where our wealth and privileges come from.In this episode, Andine, Director at 21/64, guides us in finding the purpose and meaning behind our giving and using them to strategize toward the world we all dream of.So, WGP community, what drives you to give back?You can find 21/64 here:https://2164.net/X: @2164buzzLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2164philanthropy/

29 min

S03 EP3 - A New American Majority - Tram Nguyen, New Virginia Majority

As we approach 2024, the upcoming presidential election looms on the horizon. During these election times, we are bombarded with messages to vote, vote, vote! This often leaves us pondering the actual impact of our vote. How much can our vote actually effect our daily lives? How about what is currently happening in the news? How do we even know who and what to vote for? And what about the 4 years in between each presidential election?Tram Nguyen, Co-founder and Director of the New Virginia Majority, answers these questions and more in this episode about an emerging demographic of voters... you. Tune in to discover the power of your vote and how to make sure you're ready for the ballots.You can find New Virginia Majority here:https://www.newvirginiamajority.org/IG: @newvamajorityX: @NewVAMajorityFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/newvirginiamajority/

33 min

S03 EP2 - Realizing Just & Liberated Futures for Girls - Maheen Kaleem, G4GC

With every single social issue, there is compounding effect on girls and gender-expansive youth of color - so as we continue to talk about racial justice, education, health, and even climate, how can we make sure this group doesn't fall through the cracks? But more importantly, how do we make sure we lift up the fact that movements, innovation, culture, and so much joy wouldn't even exist without them. In this episode, we talk to Maheen Kaleem from G4GC about how to center girls and gender-expansive youth of color and how doing this could really lead to a just and liberated future for all.You can find the Grantmakers for Girls of Color here:https://g4gc.org/IG: @g4gc_orgX: @G4GC_orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantmakersforgirlsofcolor/