Untapped Philanthropy

In a new episode of Untapped Philanthropy , Olivia Jones, Senior Arts and Culture Funding Manager for the City of San Diego, joins hosts Kerrin Mitchell and Tim Sarrantonio to explore what equitable and accessible grantmaking requires in practice. Drawing on her experience as both a nonprofit leader and public sector grantmaker, Olivia examines how complicated language, rigid spending restrictions, and traditional reporting requirements can create unnecessary barriers for the organizations seeking support. The conversation explores how funders can communicate more clearly, make application materials accessible, offer greater flexibility in how funds are used, and recognize forms of community impact that cannot always be captured through conventional measurements. Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of why equitable grantmaking requires more than changing terminology or following philanthropic trends. It requires trust, consistency, accessibility, and a willingness to design funding systems around the real needs of communities and the organizations serving them. For more information on Olivia and her work, visit: Linkedin City of San Diego Cultural Affairs Meet the Cultural Affairs Team To learn more about Fluxx, visit: https://www.fluxx.io/ Tim Sarrantonio has launched The Generosity Spectrum, an educational gaming company focused on helping nonprofit leaders explore generosity, identity, and motivation through hands-on learning. The work blends research, play, and systems thinking to create practice spaces where people can learn together in more human ways. To learn more about the thinking behind the company and where it’s headed, listeners can subscribe to Tim’s LinkedIn newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6907361946723889152/ Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording: https://rocketskatesrecording.com/

In a new episode of Untapped Philanthropy , Amber Melanie Smith, award-winning nonprofit founder, social entrepreneur, and creator of Activate Good, joins host Tim Sarrantonio to explore what it means to build a life and career around genuine community service. Drawing on two decades of mobilizing volunteers and supporting nonprofit leaders, Amber reframes the connection between personal identity and civic action. The conversation examines why so many people want to make a difference but may not know where to start, how social entrepreneurship can become a path to impact, and what philanthropists and funders often miss about the people already doing the work at the grassroots level. Listeners will come away with a clearer sense of how to align their skills, values, and lived experience with the change they want to help create, and why that alignment is essential to sustainable, meaningful giving. For more info on Amber, visit: Website: https://ambermelaniesmith.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambermsmith/ To learn more about Fluxx, visit: fluxx.io Tim Sarrantonio has launched The Generosity Spectrum , an educational gaming company focused on helping nonprofit leaders explore generosity, identity, and motivation through hands-on learning. The work blends research, play, and systems thinking to create practice spaces where people can learn together in more human ways. To learn more about the thinking behind the company and where it’s headed, listeners can subscribe to Tim’s LinkedIn newsletter. Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

In a new episode of Untapped Philanthropy , philanthropic psychologist Jen Shang joins hosts Kerrin Mitchell and Tim Sarrantonio to explore a fundamental question: what if giving is rooted in identity, rather than financial transaction? Drawing on decades of research, Jen introduces philanthropic psychology as the study of how people love, and how that understanding can reshape fundraising, grantmaking, and the broader social sector. The conversation centers on how generosity connects to meaning, relationships, and psychological well-being. Together, Kerrin, Tim, and Jen explore how foundations and nonprofits can move beyond strategy to better understand the individuals behind decisions. From authenticity in leadership to the role of identity in shaping philanthropic environments, they discuss why creating space for reflection, listening, and human connection can lead to more impactful and sustainable outcomes. They also unpack the tension between love and power in philanthropy, and what it looks like to center dignity, trust, and genuine care in the process. For more info on Jen, visit: Website: https://www.philanthropy-institute.org.uk/vision Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/jen-shang-92320967 To learn more about Fluxx, visit: fluxx.io Tim Sarrantonio has launched The Generosity Spectrum , an educational gaming company focused on helping nonprofit leaders explore generosity, identity, and motivation through hands-on learning. The work blends research, play, and systems thinking to create practice spaces where people can learn together in more human ways. To learn more about the thinking behind the company and where it’s headed, listeners can subscribe to Tim’s LinkedIn newsletter. Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

In a new episode of Untapped Philanthropy , futurist Trista Harris joins hosts Kerrin Mitchell and Tim Sarrantonio to explore how the social sector can prepare for an increasingly uncertain future. Drawing on her work at Future Good , Trista reframes futurism as a practical discipline rooted in foresight, preparation, and choice. The conversation examines how nonprofits and funders can move from reacting to disruption toward shaping long-term impact. From managing volatility and misinformation to engaging thoughtfully with emerging technologies like AI, Trista shares why values, governance, and human-centered leadership are essential in moments of rapid change. Together, Kerrin, Tim, and Trista discuss the importance of scenario planning, long-term vision, and collective sensemaking, along with why hope and imagination remain strategic assets for the sector. For more from Trista Harris , visit: wearefuturegood.com Continue the conversation: Trista Harris will also be joining Fluxx for an upcoming Pulse webinar, where she’ll go deeper into how futurism, foresight, and long-term thinking can help leaders navigate uncertainty in real time. Learn more and register here : https://www.fluxx.io/pulse-webinar-jan-2026 To learn more about Fluxx , visit: fluxx.io Tim Sarrantonio has launched The Generosity Spectrum , an educational gaming company focused on helping nonprofit leaders explore generosity, identity, and motivation through hands-on learning. The work blends research, play, and systems thinking to create practice spaces where people can learn together in more human ways. To learn more about the thinking behind the company and where it’s headed, listeners can subscribe to Tim’s LinkedIn newsletter . Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

In this season finale of Untapped Philanthropy , hosts Kerrin Mitchell and Tim Sarrantonio reflect on the moments, shifts, and conversations that defined 2025 for the social sector. From the evolving role of AI to growing expectations around accountability, value, and agency, they explore what surprised them most and what lessons are shaping the year ahead. This candid conversation looks beyond headlines to focus on how nonprofits, funders, and communities are navigating change in practice. Together, Kerrin and Tim share where they see momentum building, why clarity matters more than ever, and what gives them hope as the sector heads into 2026. To learn more about Fluxx, visit: fluxx.io Tim Sarrantonio has launched The Generosity Spectrum , an educational gaming company focused on helping nonprofit leaders explore generosity, identity, and motivation through hands-on learning. The work blends research, play, and systems thinking to create practice spaces where people can learn together in more human ways. To learn more about the thinking behind the company and where it’s headed, listeners can subscribe to Tim’s LinkedIn newsletter . Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, we sit down with Chris Aurelio, Director of Security and Compliance at Fluxx, to explore how cybersecurity has become a cornerstone of trust in the philanthropic sector. Together, we unpack the latest threat trends, the role of AI in both risk and defense, and how mission-driven organizations can protect their data—and their impact—in an increasingly digital world. This conversation reframes cybersecurity not as a technical burden, but as a fundamental act of stewardship and resilience. To learn more about Fluxx, visit: fluxx.io To learn more about Neon One, visit: neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

This week on Untapped Philanthropy, Gloria Feldt, a nationally recognized expert on leadership, power, and movement building, joins us as our guest. As the co-founder and president of Take The Lead, she is championing a bold vision to achieve gender parity in leadership across all sectors. In this episode, Gloria explores what it means to lead with intention, courage, and strategy, drawing from her experiences in activism, philanthropy, and public leadership to offer insight into what’s next. To learn more about Gloria and her work, visit her official site: gloriafeldt.com To learn more about Take The Lead, visit: taketheleadwomen.com/gloria-feldt To learn more about Fluxx, visit: fluxx.io To learn more about Neon One, visit: neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Emily Rasmussen This week on Untapped Philanthropy , Emily Rasmussen, Founder & CEO of Grapevine, explores how giving circles are reimagining community-driven philanthropy. She discusses the emotional and practical value of collaborative giving, why connection matters more than ever, and how platforms like Grapevine are making generosity more accessible, inclusive, and impactful. To learn more about Grapevine, visit: www.grapevine.org To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about Neon One, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: David Beckman This week on Untapped Philanthropy , David Beckman, President of the Pisces Foundation, challenges conventional thinking in environmental philanthropy. From his early legal advocacy to leading a foundation, Beckman shares how narrative, influence, and funding structures—not policy alone—shape the path to real change. He discusses the importance of local engagement, participatory grantmaking, and expanding support for frontline BIPOC-led organizations. To learn more about the Pisces Foundation, visit: www.piscesfoundation.org To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Ori Carmel In this milestone 50th episode of Untapped Philanthropy , we welcome Ori Carmel, co-founder of Sowen, to explore the challenges and opportunities in how the social sector measures impact. Ori discusses his latest research on data-driven decision-making, the inefficiencies plaguing philanthropy, and the role of systems thinking in creating sustainable change. To learn more about Sowen, visit: www.sowen.co To review The State of Social Impact 2025 report by Sowen, click here . To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Graham Macmillan What role does corporate philanthropy play in balancing the social sector? In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy , Graham Macmillan, President of Visa Foundation, explains why corporate giving is the “third leg of the stool” that provides stability and drives innovation. Graham shares insights into how the Visa Foundation blends financial resources, employee expertise, and technology to create systemic impact. Tune in to learn how businesses can move beyond charity to become true agents of social change, bridging gaps across sectors and building trust in transformative ways. To learn more about Visa Foundation, visit: www.visa.com/foundation To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Trista Harris Futurist Trista Harris returns to Untapped Philanthropy to explore the future of the social sector. She discusses the rising challenges facing philanthropy, the impact of AI on nonprofit work, and why organizations must adopt long-term visioning to stay ahead. Tune in for insights on how nonprofits can prepare for what’s next and double down on their missions in uncertain times. To learn more about FutureGood, visit: https://wearefuturegood.com/ To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

As 2024 comes to a close, Untapped Philanthropy hosts Kerrin Mitchell and Tim Sarrantonio reflect on a transformative year and explore what’s next for the social sector. From AI’s growing influence to shifts in donor engagement and advocacy, this episode provides a thought-provoking recap of the year’s biggest trends. To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Alex Amouyel In this episode, Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, discusses the foundation's unique model of directing 100% of profits to nonprofit causes. Alex shares insights into the foundation's commitment to empowering children facing adversity, the launch of innovative initiatives like the Food Justice for Kids Prize, and the role of transparency and collaboration in driving impact. Tune in to learn how Newman's Own is redefining philanthropy with purpose and heart. To learn more about Newman's Own Foundation, visit: www.newmansown.org To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Roland Kennedy Jr. In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, Roland Kennedy Jr., Grants Director at the Carnegie Corporation, discusses how equity, trust, and technology can reshape philanthropy. Drawing from his personal journey and professional experience, Kennedy explores how to dismantle power imbalances in the sector and create more inclusive, community-centered giving practices. To learn more about Carnegie Corporation, visit: https://www.carnegie.org/ To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording . Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the guest speaker in this episode are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization they may be affiliated with.

In this special episode, Untapped Philanthropy host Kerrin Mitchell introduces the newest addition to our podcast family, Coffee, Tea, & Philanthropy . While Kerrin and Tim were busy attending various industry events, we took the opportunity to spotlight this exciting new series, hosted by Bill Campbell. Coffee, Tea, & Philanthropy explores the transformative power of philanthropy through inspiring stories and meaningful conversations. The debut episode of Coffee, Tea & Philanthropy features a conversation with Dr. José González, co-founder of Conexión Américas and professor at Belmont University. Future episodes will feature similarly impactful discussions about creating change in local communities. Make sure to follow Coffee, Tea, & Philanthropy for more inspiring stories! To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Victoria Vrana Discover how the groundbreaking Atlas project is transforming global philanthropy by creating the world’s largest database of nonprofits, making it easier to support and verify organizations across the globe. Learn about the challenges of cross-border giving, the role of technology in equity, and the future of data-driven philanthropy. Perfect for anyone passionate about making a global impact through innovative solutions. To learn more about GlobalGiving Atlas, visit: www.globalgiving.org/atlas To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guests: Debby Bielak and Liz Jain In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, Debby Bielak and Liz Jain from Bridgespan discuss their latest research on funding advocacy. They provide a comprehensive primer on the different types of advocacy, share success stories, and offer practical advice for funders looking to support systemic change. Discover how to navigate the complexities of advocacy funding and leverage it to drive meaningful impact. Supplemental resources: Betting on the Tortoise: Policy Incrementalism and How Philanthropy’s Support Can Turn Small Sustained Steps into Big Impact Using All the Tools in the Toolkit: Funding Advocacy for Social Change To learn more about Bridgespan Group, visit: www.bridgespan.org To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Genevieve Smith In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, we are joined by Genevieve Smith, founder of GV Advisory, to discuss her unique approach to data practices in the nonprofit sector. Genevieve shares her journey and the importance of creating mission-aligned data cultures. Learn how nonprofits can leverage data to better understand and serve their communities while fostering trust and collaboration. To learn more about GV Advisory, visit: www.gv-advisory.com/ To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .

Guest: Jesse Bourns In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, we sit down with Jesse Bourns, co-founder of DARO, to discuss the transformative potential of data sharing in the nonprofit sector. Jesse shares his journey and insights on how to overcome common pitfalls in data sharing, emphasizing the importance of collective action and interoperability. Discover how DARO is pioneering new methodologies to turn data into a public good and enhance the impact of nonprofits worldwide. To learn more about DARO, visit: www.wearedaro.com To learn more about Fluxx, visit: www.fluxx.io To learn more about NeonOne, visit: www.neonone.com Episodes of Untapped Philanthropy are edited, mixed, and mastered by Rocket Skates Recording .