As we close out 2025, host Alberto Lidji analyses fifty deep-dive conversations from the past year to identify the key trends currently reshaping the social impact landscape. This special 2025 roundup episode moves beyond individual projects to explore the fundamental evolution of systemic transformation. Alberto synthesises the year’s insights into three defining shifts: the transition from isolated funding to orchestrator models, the strategic focus on structural root causes, and a fundamental evolution in how we approach leadership and burnout. Key Themes Explored in This Episode: The Evolution of Collaboration: Why the retreat of traditional funding streams in 2025 turned partnership from an aspiration into a vital survival mechanism. The Orchestrator Model: Exploring the move toward philanthropic bridge-building, where foundations support government-led initiatives and remove systemic friction points rather than driving isolated agendas. Rigidity in Mission, Flexibility in Approach: Why the most effective strategies this year focused on markets and addressing systemic drivers rather than treating symptoms. The Grace Shift: A look at how leadership archetypes are evolving to prioritise personnel well-being and structural support as prerequisites for long-term impact. The Call to Agency: A concluding reflection on the power of citizen entrepreneurship and why individual action remains the ultimate antidote to global anxiety. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Cleft lip and palate is one of the most common congenital conditions worldwide, yet effective care goes far beyond repairing a visible deformity. It requires long-term, multidisciplinary support that addresses speech, hearing, dental development and psychological wellbeing. In this episode, Brian Sommerlad, a surgeon and Chairman of CLEFT, shares four decades of experience in cleft care across the UK and low and middle income countries. Drawing on extensive work in places such as Bangladesh and Nepal, he explains why short-term surgical missions alone are not enough and how well-intentioned philanthropy can sometimes undermine local health systems. The conversation explores what sustainable cleft care really looks like. Brian outlines CLEFT’s distinctive approach, which focuses on training local professionals, funding non-surgical roles such as speech therapists and orthodontists, and supporting multidisciplinary teams that can continue delivering care long after external support has stepped back. Key topics include: What cleft lip and palate is, how common it is, and why it affects far more than appearance The lifelong importance of speech therapy, hearing support and dental care The psychological and social impact of cleft conditions on children and families Why teaching and capacity-building create more impact than simply doing operations How poorly designed NGO activity can unintentionally weaken local services The value of treating local clinicians, hospitals and governments as equal partners Practical insights into allocating philanthropic funding for long-term benefit Brian also reflects on his own journey from medical training in Australia to international work spanning Vietnam, Bangladesh, Iraq and beyond, offering candid observations on what has and has not worked in global health over time. This episode is a thoughtful examination of how healthcare philanthropy can move from short-term intervention to lasting change, with lessons that extend well beyond cleft care alone. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.   

This episode explores the work of the Roger Federer Foundation through a conversation with Maya Ziswiler, Chief Executive Officer, focusing on early childhood education, prevention-focused philanthropy, and long-term systems change. Maya explains how the Foundation works to give children a better start in life through early and foundational learning, with the majority of its work concentrated in Southern Africa and a growing portfolio in Switzerland. In Southern Africa, the Foundation partners closely with governments and locally rooted organisations across six countries to strengthen school readiness and early learning systems. In Switzerland, it is developing an approach that uses movement to strengthen body and mind, with an emphasis on preventing mental health challenges later in life. A central theme of the discussion is the Foundation’s data-driven School Readiness Initiative, including tablet-based learning kiosks and the Child Steps assessment tool. These tools support teachers, simplify reporting, and generate actionable data for decision making at school, regional, and national levels. Key milestones include nationwide adoption of the assessment tool in Zimbabwe and the handover of programme implementation to government authorities in parts of South Africa. The conversation also covers the Foundation’s strategic transition, with a new strategy to be launched in early 2026. Maya reflects on the shift from a single flagship solution towards an early learning continuum, the importance of partnerships, and the role of catalytic funding in strengthening an underfunded sector. The episode also traces Maya’s leadership journey from the private sector to UNICEF, UBS Optimus Foundation, and now the Roger Federer Foundation, alongside the opportunities and challenges of leading a foundation associated with a global sporting icon. Fun fact: The conversation is conducted by Alberto Lidji, former CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, who interviews the CEO of the Roger Federer Foundation, offering a distinctive and collegial backdrop. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

In this episode, Guy Cave, President of the Legatum Foundation, discusses how the foundation launches and scales collaborative funds that focus on ambitious, system-level change. Rather than distributing small grants, the foundation pilots approaches with local organisations, tests what works, and—when the potential for large-scale impact is clear—spins out independent funds with their own leadership, governance and investor base. Guy traces the journey behind four existing funds: the END Fund, focused on neglected tropical diseases; the Freedom Fund, which addresses human trafficking and modern slavery; the Luminos Fund, bringing out-of-school children back into learning; and, most recently, the Resilio Fund, which supports community-led humanitarian response through micro-grants to hyper-local groups. Collectively, these funds have mobilised more than US$1 billion. He also introduces two current pilots that may become future funds: care reform to help children move safely from institutions into family-based care, and criminal justice reform. Throughout the conversation, Guy unpacks how new ideas emerge, how evidence is generated, how partners are brought in, and how to let go so that independent funds—and their CEOs—can thrive. For anyone interested in collaborative philanthropy, local leadership, or building vehicles that others can support, this episode offers practical insight into sequencing, partnership, and learning at scale. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

This conversation offers an in-depth look at the evolving landscape of philanthropy, global health, and development funding, with a particular focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. The discussion examines how current geopolitical and economic pressures are reshaping what effective partnership, sustainability, and impact look like for funders, governments, and civil society. The episode explores a wide range of thematic priorities including maternal, newborn, and child health; pediatric and adolescent HIV; early childhood development; human resources for health; and humanitarian response. It illuminates why deeply understanding country-level contexts—systems, supply chains, human capital, financing constraints, and government priorities—is central to strategic philanthropy. A significant portion of the conversation addresses how private philanthropy can play a constructive, catalytic role amid a period of unusually rapid change in global aid flows. Topics include the risks of backsliding on key health indicators, strategies for identifying truly local and embedded implementing partners, and the importance of moving from project-based funding toward general operating support to strengthen long-term institutional capacity. The episode also examines the realities and complexities of co-funding with other foundations, multilaterals, and bilaterals—what genuine partnership requires, how priorities are aligned, and how fragmentation can be reduced. A major highlight is the creation of the Beginnings Fund, a large-scale collaborative effort uniting several private funders to meaningfully advance maternal and newborn health across multiple countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Looking ahead, the conversation outlines both the challenges and opportunities that lie between now and 2030. It reflects on where renewed discipline, focus, and collaboration are most urgently needed, and why the current moment may also be a rare chance for long-overdue recalibration in global health and development. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

What does it look like when social impact efforts recognize the importance of people’s own capacity to make choices and take action in their lives? In this episode, Richard Sedlmayr, co-founder of the Agency Fund, explores how human agency functions as a meaningful driver to achieve social impact. Richard explains how the Agency Fund supports ideas and organizations that expand individuals’ access to information, options, and tools that help them navigate their circumstances more effectively. This perspective examines how people understand their environment, interpret opportunities, and decide on pathways forward. Drawing on their work with partners such as Rocket Learning in India, Richard highlights how parents and caregivers can be supported to take an active role in early childhood development, and how practical guidance and community engagement can translate into improvements in learning and wellbeing. This episode offers a clear, balanced look at how human agency can serve as a valuable dimension of social impact — one that recognizes individuals not as passive recipients of aid, but as active participants in shaping outcomes in their own lives and communities. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

This episode features an in-depth conversation with philanthropist Sarah Butler-Sloss, founder and chair of the Aurora Trust and member of the Sainsbury family. With more than three decades of experience in environmental philanthropy, she offers an expansive perspective on climate action, sustainable finance, regenerative agriculture, and the role of foundations in driving systemic change. The discussion begins with the origins and evolution of the Aurora Trust, established in 1990 to support environmental and biodiversity initiatives. Sarah outlines the trust’s core areas of focus: halting tropical deforestation, advancing sustainable and regenerative farming in the UK, connecting children from disadvantaged communities with nature, improving sustainable finance systems, and supporting energy-access solutions in partnership with Ashden. A substantial portion of the conversation examines the importance of aligning endowment investments with charitable purpose. Sarah shares the story behind the landmark Butler-Sloss vs Charity Commission case, in which she and her brother successfully argued that charitable endowments should consider mission alignment—not solely financial returns—when determining investment strategy. This judgment has since shaped UK charity investment guidance, enabling foundations to invest in ways consistent with environmental and social objectives. The episode also explores the changing landscape of philanthropy, particularly the growing pressures on UK charities and funders. Sarah stresses the value of collaboration among donors and organisations, the importance of avoiding duplication, and the need to support both established institutions and promising early-stage initiatives. She reflects on how foundations can balance coordinated efforts with maintaining independence and openness to innovation. Later, the conversation turns to the Ashden Awards, the global initiative Sarah founded 25 years ago to identify, celebrate, and scale exemplary clean-energy solutions. She describes their evolution from a pure award programme to a wider platform for policy influence, investment mobilisation, and global awareness-raising. Stories from the Global South and the UK illustrate how clean-energy innovators deliver powerful social, economic, and environmental benefits. Sarah closes with a clear message for philanthropists: grants are only part of the picture. Endowments must also be deployed responsibly and strategically to advance charitable purpose and avoid undermining the very challenges philanthropy seeks to address. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

This week, The Do One Better Podcast marks a remarkable milestone: 350 consecutive episodes since its launch in early 2019. In this special solo edition, host Alberto Lidji reflects on the joy of creating a weekly show that brings together voices from across philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, and on what it means to have listeners tuning in from every corner of the world. Alberto shares why producing the podcast remains such a deeply rewarding experience: The excitement of conversation and how open, curious dialogue often leads to unexpected insights. The fulfilment of sharing personal learnings from hundreds of interviews and applying them to help others make a difference. The privilege of informing, enthusing and encouraging a truly global audience to take action and improve the world around them. The satisfaction of building a community that values thoughtful exchange and real-world impact. He also reflects on the craft behind the show, from preparation and production to the care that goes into every episode, and the sense of meaning that comes from connecting with so many people who share a passion for positive change. This milestone episode is a warm and thoughtful celebration of curiosity, purpose and connection, and a heartfelt thank-you to the guests and listeners around the world who have made the journey possible. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Featuring Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO, and Molly Morgan, Texas State Director, both from the Trust for Public Land. They share how their organization is working to ensure that every person in the United States can live within a short walk of a park, trail, or green space. The conversation explores the strategies and partnerships that are transforming communities and connecting people to nature. Topics include: Turning schoolyards into safe, vibrant community spaces Returning land to Indigenous tribes and protecting cultural heritage sites Expanding access through the national “10-Minute Walk” initiative How the ParkScore Index drives improvement and accountability among U.S. cities The social, mental health, and economic benefits of nearby green spaces Examples from Dallas, New York, and Atlanta showing how access changes lives A thoughtful look at how data, design, and community engagement are reshaping the urban landscape — and why access to the outdoors is essential for everyone. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Kate Williams, Chief Executive Officer of 1% for the Planet, joins the conversation to share how a simple idea—businesses and individuals committing 1% of annual revenues to environmental causes—has evolved into a powerful global movement.   Founded by Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia) and Craig Matthews, 1% for the Planet has inspired thousands of companies across more than 100 countries to give back to the planet. With over $820 million certified in lifetime giving, the organization is on track to reach its first billion in donations.   Kate explains how the model works: from certifying members’ contributions to connecting them with vetted environmental partners across four key impact areas—Just Economies, Resilient Communities, Rights to Nature, and Conservation & Restoration. She discusses the philosophy behind giving from revenues, not profits, why that matters for lasting impact, and how companies of all sizes can integrate sustainability into their core operations.   Listeners will hear about:   How 1% for the Planet certifies and supports its global network of businesses and nonprofits The creative ways companies balance purpose and profit, including in-kind and volunteer contributions Why strong branding and credible certification are essential to scaling environmental change Lessons in building community, trust, and momentum across thousands of members and partners Kate’s personal journey from outdoor educator to environmental leader Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

What are the real economics behind recycling and reuse—and why, despite decades of progress, are we recycling less of our growing waste? In this insightful conversation with TerraCycle Founder and CEO Tom Szaky, we unpack the market forces, policy levers, and behavioral dynamics that shape the global waste system. Szaky explains why recycling often fails to scale, how value—not technology—determines what gets recycled, and why the world still produces more waste per person each year. We dive into: The harsh truth about recycling economics: why most recyclers only process what’s profitable. The “Great Fiberization” trend and the myths around compostable and “eco” packaging. Why technology isn’t a silver bullet—and why true change must confront value and cost. France’s groundbreaking reuse model: a case study in regulation that works, with retailers like Carrefour leading the way. How policy drives innovation: the interplay between free markets, extended producer responsibility, and consumer behavior. A hopeful yet pragmatic look ahead to 2030, and what it will take for circular systems to thrive globally.   Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Anna María Chávez, President and CEO of the Arizona Community Foundation, shares an inspiring look into how one of America’s leading statewide community foundations is redefining philanthropy, partnership and social impact in Arizona and beyond. In this powerful conversation, Anna María discusses how the Arizona Community Foundation brings together individuals, corporations and nonprofits to drive meaningful change in education, affordable housing and environmental innovation. She explains how philanthropy can start as early as childhood and how anyone, from Girl Scouts to global CEOs, can play a role in building stronger, more equitable communities. Listeners will gain insights into: The unique statewide model of the Arizona Community Foundation and its $1.6B in managed assets. Why community foundations serve as neutral conveners that unite government, business and civil society. Arizona’s role as a living laboratory for environmental innovation. How bold, risk-taking philanthropy can unlock catalytic solutions to complex social challenges. Anna María also reflects on her own remarkable journey and why she believes the future of philanthropy lies in creativity, collaboration and community-driven leadership. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Corporate giving is more than philanthropy — it’s a strategic tool for impact. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore how companies can deploy their balance sheets, human capital, and core business capabilities to achieve meaningful social outcomes. Our guest, Gwen Lim, Head of the Southeast Asia office and Partner at The Bridgespan Group, unpacks insights from her newly released report “High-Impact Approaches to Corporate Giving” (published September 2025). She shares what distinguishes corporate giving from other forms of philanthropy, the key trade-offs between impact and risk, and how firms can align purpose with performance. Discover how leading corporates are: Navigating reputational and political risks while maximizing social good Leveraging business assets like data, platforms, and expertise for public benefit Structuring high-impact strategies through corporate foundations and internal initiatives Balancing short-term financial results with long-term social outcomes Engaging employees, investors, and customers in purpose-driven impact Gwen also shares fascinating case studies — from Bloomberg’s data-led volunteering to DHL’s disaster logistics — illustrating how capability-led giving can transform communities. This episode is a must-listen for corporate leaders, CSR professionals, philanthropists, and anyone curious about how business can become a force for good in an age of uncertainty. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.    

What does it take to transform a neighborhood long defined by poverty into a community of opportunity, dignity, and hope? In this episode, Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group, shares how three organizations—the Warehouse, Reach Riverside, and Kingswood Community Center—are leading a $600 million revitalization effort in Wilmington, Delaware’s Riverside neighborhood. Logan discusses how teens help design and run a state-of-the-art community center, why holistic redevelopment is central to breaking intergenerational poverty, and how community members themselves are shaping the vision for their future. He also reflects on personal experiences that shaped his leadership journey and explains why his ultimate goal is to work himself out of a job by building a community that thrives without external support. You’ll hear about: How The WRK Group blends housing, education, health, and economic vitality into one comprehensive model. The story behind the Warehouse teen center, run for teens, by teens. The challenges and breakthroughs of creating lasting, systemic change. Why restoring hope is as important as bricks and mortar. Generational impact stories—from tragedy to triumph—that reveal what’s at stake. This conversation is an inspiring look at what’s possible when vision, collaboration, and community ownership come together. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Philanthropy faces a “Sputnik moment” in science funding. Ari Simon, President of Tambourine Philanthropies, shares why the U.S. research system is under existential threat — and how foundations can step up now. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why labs, postdocs, and decades of data are at risk from sudden funding cuts Four immediate philanthropic responses to keep research alive How tools like recoverable grants, guarantees, and IP-based financing can bridge gaps Why supporting early-career scientists and researcher well-being is urgent Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Professor Jack Shonkoff, Founding Director of Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child and Director of Connecting Science + Community, joins for a powerful conversation about the future of early childhood development (ECD). He reflects on decades of progress in making science actionable for policymakers, service providers and advocates; and shares why the next frontier must focus on the environments where families live. From poverty and housing to access to nutritious food, clean water and social capital, Shonkoff explains why community context is the missing piece in ensuring children everywhere can thrive. Key topics explored in this episode: Why ECD is a moral imperative and a foundation for a healthy, sustainable society How science — from neuroscience to immunology — is reshaping our understanding of child development Why one-size-fits-all programs fail, and how solutions must adapt to local contexts The misaligned incentives in philanthropy, evaluation and policymaking that slow progress How Connecting Science + Community is bridging research and grassroots action, with early examples of U.S. cities tackling housing, jobs and equity for children Why being “constructively dissatisfied” is essential for the field to keep advancing Professor Shonkoff emphasizes that while the early childhood field has already transformed millions of lives worldwide, the work is far from finished. Real impact will come from smarter strategies, stronger communities and a commitment to caring not only for our children but for all children. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

David Reiling, CEO of Sunrise Banks, shares his entrepreneurial journey of building a mission-driven financial institution where doing good and doing well go hand in hand. From serving immigrant communities in Minnesota to shaping global conversations on financial inclusion and financial literacy, David explains how values-based banking empowers individuals, supports local economies and drives innovation. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Jonathan Simmons, CEO of New Philanthropy Capital (NPC), joins to share a refreshing perspective on philanthropy—why it should be fun, how to grow the giving market, and what it takes to make charitable impact both strategic and joyful. We explore: The origins of NPC and how it helps philanthropists make smarter decisions Why giving should be viewed not only as serious and rigorous but also enjoyable How to encourage individuals and organizations—whether wealthy or everyday donors—to engage in philanthropy The role of giving circles and pooled funds in driving collective impact Cultural and psychological barriers that hold people back from giving, and how to overcome them The need for stronger collaboration between charities, social enterprises and impact investors What government and policy can do to make philanthropy easier and more effective From misconceptions around “bad charities” to the addictive joy of seeing your money do good, this episode is packed with insights, practical ideas and optimism. Whether you’re a seasoned philanthropist, someone just starting to give or simply curious about how generosity shapes society, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.    

What does it take to help thousands of women secure employment each year? Anna Hemings, Chief Executive of Smart Works, joins to share how this UK charity provides unemployed women with the coaching, clothing and confidence needed to transform their career prospects. We explore: How Smart Works supports 10,000 women annually with interview preparation, career coaching and professional outfits Insights from the Smart Works Unemployment Index, an annual report examining the barriers women face when seeking work The biggest challenges women face in today’s labor market, from AI screening to childcare costs and workplace inequality What employers and policymakers can do to remove barriers and create fairer opportunities Smart Works’ growth strategy and why volunteer power and fashion industry partnerships are central to its impact This episode shines a light on practical solutions that empower women, strengthen communities and benefit the wider economy. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

In this episode of The Do One Better Podcast, host Alberto Lidji sits down with David Risher, CEO of Lyft, to explore what it means to lead with purpose in one of the world’s most competitive industries. David shares his journey from Amazon executive to nonprofit founder (Worldreader) and now CEO of Lyft, where he champions a vision of “serving and connecting.” He discusses his hands-on leadership style—including driving as a Lyft driver himself—and how listening directly to riders and drivers has shaped new innovations such as Women+ Connect, Price Lock, and on-time pickup guarantees. We also dive into Lyft Up, the company’s initiative providing free or discounted rides to job seekers, patients, and low-income communities, and we hear about David’s philanthropic work with Worldreader and Half My DAF, which is mobilizing millions in donor-advised funds for good causes. From navigating trade-offs between profit and purpose, to expanding Lyft’s footprint into Europe, David offers candid insights into building a values-driven company while scaling impact at massive reach. Whether you’re in the corporate world, nonprofit space, or seeking inspiration for how business can be a force for good, this conversation is full of fresh ideas, heartfelt stories, and practical lessons. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show to help others discover these inspiring conversations. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.