The Social Change Diaries

Latest Episodes:

Dr. Jason Franklin on the Many Faces of Philanthropy Apr 03, 2018

Show notes

Philanthropist, Author and Researcher, Dr. Jason Franklin, talks about the role of philanthropy in transforming communities. As the first holder of the W. K. Kellogg Community Philanthropy Chair, he is focused on reframing conversations and actions about how communities take care of the people that occupy them. From "outrage giving" to donating time, Jason talks about the many ways and reasons that people give. His deep understanding of philanthropy and loyal support of underserved communities leads to a candid conversation that is analytical and insightful.

Global Perspectives on the Fight for Women's Equality with UN Secretary General, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuk Mar 21, 2018

Show notes

In honor of Women's History Month, we talked all things women and girls with Under-Secretary-General of the UN and UN Women Executive Director, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. Looking at the world through the global lens on gender equality isn't for the faint of heart. The Secretary General offers inspiration and marching orders for our listeners. Enjoy!

PS: Get ready for Social Change Diaries Season 2, dedicated to Philanthropy, as seen through the eyes of today's leaders in the sector!

Melissa Harris-Perry on the Power of Failure in Building Movements and Our Lives Dec 21, 2017

Show notes

If you've ever heard her speak or read her writing, you know that Melissa Harris-Perry is going to teach you something you didn't already know, while also sharing her powerful truth. In her interview on the Social Change Diaries, she does just that- with a no holds barred sit down with Vanessa.

Jacki Zehner's Bold Mission to Mobilize Unprecedented Resources for Women and Girls Dec 13, 2017

Show notes

Jacki Zehner is a community builder. Through Women Moving Millions, she, along with a group of 270 women, have provided more than 1 billion dollars in funding for the causes that impact women and girls around the world. As one of today's most influential voices on women, money and changing the world, Jacki reframes the notion of power to be inclusive, collaborative and empowering.

Abigail Disney: Film, Universal Languages of the Heart and Social Change Dec 07, 2017

Show notes

Some people believe that women were written out of history, but Abigail Disney believes that women were never written in. Through her films, she's on a quest to change that. Abigail's passion for storytelling, and for accurate representations of women in the quest for peace, has led her to understand what makes a woman courageous enough to share her truth, even in the most dangerous and politically charged climates.

Saru Jayaraman and Moral Jiu Jitsu as a Force for Change Nov 30, 2017

Show notes

Saru Jayaraman has been championing the rights of restaurant workers for more than a decade. Her activism and unapologetic pursuit for justice makes her a natural thought leader and visionary.

Rinku Sen's 360 View on Racism, Classism and Sexism Nov 09, 2017

Show notes

In this episode, Race Forward Senior Strategist, Rinku Sen, looks at the world through the eyes of an activist and journalist, sharing her observations and convictions about the challenges facing women of color, in advancing their respective agendas. As a racial justice expert, Rinku beautifully touches on the importance of support and what is needed for women to excel in leadership roles.

Strategist Erica Payne Is No Shrinking Violet Nov 02, 2017

Show notes

Strategist and storyteller Erica Payne is a fearless advocate for economic justice. Known to "poke the bear" as creator of some of the most powerful issue campaigns of the last decade, Erica has built a thought leadership platform that provides a trail of bread crumbs for how women can leverage their ideas and expertise to create meaningful change.

Reclaiming Your Voice with Marianne Schnall Oct 25, 2017

Show notes

Answering the question what will it take for women to occupy the spaces and places where we are normally silenced, Marianne Schnall shares her insights gathered from over two decades of progressive thought leadership on feminism. During her interview, she advocates for the reclamation of the term "power" and encourages women to consider how "power with" and "power to" can be used to spark change.

Ana Oliveira Explains Why Money Follows Leadership Oct 05, 2017

Show notes

We all have a unique contribution to make when we care about something and put our actions behind it. Today's guest, Ana Oliveira shares with us her thoughts on how women can share their voices to shape the future.

Ana Oliveira is President and CEO of The New York Women's Foundation. Since 2006, Ana has led the increase of The Foundation's grantmaking from $1.7M to $7.6M today. Focusing on economic security, safety and health, in 30 years The Foundation has distributed over $58 million to 371 organizations.

Ana served as co-chair of The New York City Council Speaker's Young Women's Initiative and is a Commissioner for the NYC Commission on Human Rights. She sits on the Independent Commission to Study Criminal Justice Reform in NYC and is on the board of Philanthropy New York.

She has held key roles as a CEO of the Gay Men's Health Crisis, at the Osborne Association, and at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center Substance Abuse Clinic.

Ana attained her M.A. in Medical Anthropology and an honorary PhD. from the New School for Social Research.

Ana was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and resides in Manhattan.