Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

Latest Episodes:

Rose Caldwell, CEO of Plan International UK, on children’s rights, girls’ education, and localisation Apr 01, 2024

Show notes

The CEO of Plan International UK, Rose Caldwell, joins us back on the Do One Better Podcast to talk about their work on children’s rights, girls’ education, and their approach to localisation.

We explore why and how Plan International works with local actors, in humanitarian contexts, including youth-led organisations and those focused on girls’ and young women’s rights.

Plan International works with girls and boys growing up in some of the world’s poorest communities, making sure they have access to the education, health care, clean water and future opportunities they need to thrive.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

Ebrima Saidy, Chief Impact Officer of Save the Children International: Everything you need to know about the increasingly-prominent role of the Chief Impact Officer Mar 25, 2024

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Ebrima Saidy, Chief Impact Officer of Save the Children International, discusses the importance and diversity of the increasingly-prominent role of the Chief Impact Officer.

At a time when many more organisations are appointing Chief Impact Officers, we consider what the role actually does, what it entails, where Chief Impact Officers come from, and what qualifications and experience they bring with them.

In 2022, Save the Children International directly reached 48.8 million children in 116 countries around the world. They responded to 107 emergencies in 66 countries, reaching 34.4million people including 18.8million children. They also contributed to 129 significant changes and implementation of policy or legislation change related to the most marginalised and deprived groups of children in different countries, regions and internationally.

This episode is for anyone who strives for positive impact on a global scale.

Iqbal Dhaliwal, Global Executive Director of MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), and Vikrant Bhargava, Founder of Veddis Foundation: Following the evidence trail Mar 18, 2024

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Iqbal Dhaliwal, Global Executive Director of MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), and Vikrant Bhargava, Founder of Veddis Foundation, join Alberto Lidji to discuss the power of evidence, the ASPIRE partnership and the innovative Emissions Trading Scheme.

We also explore how philanthropists should decide what to fund, where and how to fund; why evidence is so important in driving forward policy change; and why policy itself should be a key focus in the philanthropic space.

The ASPIRE partnership (Alliance for Scaling Policy Impact through Research and Evidence) is a coalition of governments, philanthropic organizations, civil society groups, and research institutions.

The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a flexible, market-based approach to solving the air pollution problem in India. It works by capping emissions for a particular pollutant, like particulate matter, in a particular area. It allows sources of the pollutant, such as industrial plants, to trade emissions permits among themselves. The capping ensures emissions targets are met while trading allows this to be achieved cheaply.

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) is a global research center working to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence. Anchored by a network of more than 900 researchers at universities around the world, J-PAL conducts randomized impact evaluations to answer critical questions in the fight against poverty.

J-PAL co-founders Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, with longtime affiliate Michael Kremer, were awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Economics for their pioneering approach to alleviating global poverty.

Veddis Foundation invests in organisations working at the intersection of technology, policy, and impact. Veddis also partners with governments on policy implementation, effective public service delivery and governance.

Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation: philanthropy, family, and flexibility in funding Mar 11, 2024

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Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation, provides an insider’s view into one of the UK’s most impactful philanthropic organisations. Philippa shares the foundation’s approach to granting nearly £100 million annually, emphasising their blend of empathy, flexibility, and strategic funding that characterises their work.

The Garfield Weston Foundation, established in 1958 by Willard Garfield Weston, has grown significantly over the years. It dedicates its resources to supporting charities across the UK, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to societal improvement rooted in family values. Philippa discusses the foundation’s willingness to accept unsolicited applications and its focus on capacity building, partnerships, and research, underlining the organisation's open and responsive nature.

The foundation’s work is powered by a deep sense of family-driven purpose, enabling it to support a wide array of charitable endeavours effectively.

Philippa reflects on the foundation's commitment to responding to the most compelling needs across the UK without strict thematic restrictions. This philosophy ensures the foundation remains a versatile and impactful supporter of the country's charitable sector, embodying the spirit of philanthropy that Garfield Weston envisioned.

This episode offers profound insights into the Garfield Weston Foundation's dedication to making a difference through a thoughtful, family-oriented approach to philanthropy, showcasing the power of flexibility, empathy, and strategic funding in fostering positive societal change.

Don Howard, CEO of the James Irvine Foundation: Economic Mobility for California's Low-Income Workers Mar 04, 2024

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Don Howard, CEO of the James Irvine Foundation, sheds light on the foundation's unwavering commitment to fostering economic mobility among low-income workers in California. With a rich history dating back to 1937, the foundation has been a pivotal force, directing over $2.6 billion in grants to various organizations across California. In 2023 alone, $180 million was allocated to support initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

The foundation's mission is crystal clear: ensuring that every low-income worker in California has the power to advance economically. This goal is pursued through a multifaceted approach that includes improving access to quality jobs, enhancing workers' influence within the economy, fostering community-driven economic planning, and strengthening the safety net for those unable to advance economically.

The foundation's strategy is not just about grantmaking but also about catalyzing broader systemic change. This includes initiatives like Jobs First, a state program designed to engage communities in planning their economic futures in a way that is inclusive, equitable, and climate-resilient.

Despite the challenges, Howard remains optimistic about California's future, viewing the state's diversity and innovation as key assets in rebuilding a more inclusive middle class. He acknowledges the issues of infrastructure, climate change, and inequality but sees these as opportunities for systemic transformation. Through strategic philanthropy, community engagement, and a deep commitment to economic justice, the James Irvine Foundation is leading the way in creating a brighter future for California's low-income workers.

Andy Jarvis, Bezos Earth Fund's Director of Future of Food: Innovating for a Sustainable Tomorrow Feb 26, 2024

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Andy Jarvis, the Director of Future of Food at the Bezos Earth Fund, delves into the critical role food systems play in both exacerbating and potentially alleviating the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The Bezos Earth Fund, established with a $10 billion commitment from Jeff Bezos, aims to address these global challenges by 2030, with a strong emphasis on equity and environmental justice.

This episode showcases some truly innovative initiatives being supported by the Fund and unpacks how the Fund is tackling the enormous environmental footprint of the current food system, which is responsible for a significant portion of global emissions and land use.

A major focus is placed on the challenges and opportunities within livestock production, identified as a key driver of both emissions and land use. Andy elucidates the Fund's strategic approach to transforming livestock systems to meet the nutritional needs of a growing global population, while also safeguarding the planet. This involves exploring innovative solutions and partnerships aimed at reducing the environmental impact of food production and consumption.

The conversation touches on the interconnected nature of food systems, emphasising the complexity of making meaningful changes within this global network. Andy's insights reveal the importance of considering the entire food system, from supply chains to consumer behaviour, in efforts to achieve a sustainable future.

This episode not only highlights the critical work being undertaken by the Bezos Earth Fund but also underscores the urgency of addressing food sustainability as a cornerstone of climate action and biodiversity conservation. Listeners are invited to contemplate the profound implications of their food choices and the innovative paths forward in creating a sustainable and equitable food future.

Saleh Saeed OBE, Chief Executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC): Uniting for Global Humanitarian Relief Feb 19, 2024

Show notes

In a captivating conversation with Saleh Saeed OBE, the Chief Executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), listeners are treated to an in-depth exploration of the DEC's vital role in responding to global disasters and humanitarian crises. With a history spanning 60 years, the DEC stands as a testament to the collective power of the UK's leading charities, coordinating efforts to deliver rapid and effective aid to those in dire need.

Saleh delves into the unique operational model of the DEC, emphasising its reliance on a broad partnership network that includes 15 member charities such as Oxfam, Save the Children, and the British Red Cross, alongside a strategic alliance with major UK broadcasters. This synergy enables the DEC to launch impactful appeals that galvanise public support and funding, which are crucial for immediate humanitarian response.

The discussion also sheds light on the critical criteria guiding the DEC's activation: the scale of unmet humanitarian needs, the capacity for effective intervention, and the level of public sympathy and awareness. These criteria ensure that the DEC's efforts are both necessary and supported, allowing for swift action in the wake of disasters like the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which alone raised an astonishing £420 million.

Saleh offers a behind-the-scenes look at the DEC's operational dynamics when disasters strike, highlighting the pre-established preparedness and the rapid mobilisation of resources and partnerships that enable an immediate response. This efficiency is underscored by a transparent and accountable fund distribution system that ensures donations are swiftly channeled to where they are most needed, supporting life-saving and protective aid efforts.

Moreover, the episode touches on the evolution of the DEC over its 60-year history, including the expansion of its member charities and the cap on membership to maintain effective fund distribution. Saleh also addresses the importance of ongoing support from corporates and individuals, even in times of calm, to bolster the DEC's readiness for future crises.

Saleh's message resonates with the ethos of collaboration and joint effort. He passionately advocates for greater partnership and less competition within the humanitarian and wider charity sectors, emphasising that united efforts can significantly amplify the impact and reach of aid, making a profound difference in the lives of those affected by disasters and crises.

Sir Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children): Empowering Society to Protect Children Feb 12, 2024

Show notes

Sir Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children), delves into their impactful work and recent legislative success driving forward the Online Safety Act.

The conversation begins with an overview of the NSPCC's mission to prevent child cruelty and protect children's rights across the UK. The episode highlights the organisation's recent legislative victories that have significantly advanced child protection law and policy.

A focal point of the discussion centers on the NSPCC's proactive engagement with policymakers and influential tech companies. This collaboration aims to address and mitigate the risks children face online, showcasing the organisation's commitment to adapting its strategies in the face of evolving digital threats to child safety.

Sir Peter emphasises the critical role of the wider community, including individuals and corporations, in supporting the NSPCC's mission. He encourages listeners to enhance their safeguarding skills and awareness through resources available on the NSPCC website and NSPCC Learning platform. These tools are designed to empower everyone to contribute effectively to a society that listens to, supports, and protects its youngest members.

The episode concludes with a powerful message: everyone has a part to play in keeping children safe. By adopting simple yet profound actions—looking up, looking out, and listening to children—we can foster an environment where children feel heard and supported.

Sir Peter's parting words inspire listeners to explore the NSPCC's website, deepen their understanding of child protection, and discover how they can make a tangible difference in the lives of children.

Delphine Moralis, CEO of Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association): Shaping the Future of Philanthropy in Europe Feb 05, 2024

Show notes

Delphine Moralis, CEO of Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association), speaks with Alberto Lidji on the evolving landscape of philanthropy in Europe.

We explore Philea's mission to foster pluralistic, just, and resilient societies that prioritise people and the planet.

We delve into recent trends in philanthropy, highlighting the shift towards trust-based approaches, unrestricted funding, and participatory grant-making, which underscore the sector's adaptability and commitment to more effective and inclusive support mechanisms.

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to discussing the European Philanthropy Manifesto, a strategic document advocating for a unified market for philanthropy across Europe to mitigate operational frictions and legal barriers that hinder cross-border philanthropy.

The manifesto, a result of collaborative efforts within the philanthropic community, outlines recommendations for empowering philanthropy, facilitating cross-border activities, and partnering with philanthropic organisations for the public good.

This initiative reflects Philea's proactive stance in engaging with European institutions to create a more conducive environment for philanthropy.

Tim Dixon, Co-Founder of More in Common: Bridging Divides in a Polarized World Jan 29, 2024

Show notes

Tim Dixon, Co-Founder of More in Common: Bridging Divides in a Polarized World.

Tim discusses the organization's core mission to understand and address the growing polarization in societies worldwide. Through their innovative approach, More in Common leverages the insights of social psychology and extensive public opinion research. Their aim is to unravel the complex dynamics of societal attitudes.

Tim shares his personal journey that led to the creation of More in Common, highlighting a pivotal moment marked by the tragic murder of a close friend and colleague. This personal loss ignited his commitment to dedicating a significant part of his career to tackling societal divides. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the often-sensationalized public perception and the nuanced reality on contentious issues. This gap, he notes, is evident in how the public perceives topics like immigration and refugee acceptance, which is frequently misaligned with the headlines.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around the approach to finding solutions to these divides. Tim underscores the essential role of leadership across various sectors in steering conversations and policies away from polarized and binary viewpoints. He advocates for a more evidence-based, practical approach that challenges prevailing misconceptions and promotes constructive dialogue.

Tim stresses the power of curiosity and listening in overcoming polarization. By encouraging open and respectful dialogues between people with opposing views, he believes that common ground can be found. This approach is not just about resolving conflicts but about understanding the underlying values and motivations that drive people's opinions and attitudes.

Tim highlights the critical need for leaders who can navigate through these polarized times and offer hope and practical solutions. He shares compelling examples of how changing perceptions and fostering hope can significantly impact public attitudes and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Tim’s insights offer a hopeful perspective on addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time - societal polarization.

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