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© 2025 Progressive Pockets: a podcast about the untapped power of our wallets to build the world we want
Description
A podcast at the intersection of social impact and personal finance that covers questions of how we might spend, donate, and invest more in line with our values.
Hosted by Genet "GG" Gimja
Formerly known as the Spend Donate Invest Podcast
178 Episodes
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Send us a text Welcome to the first ever climate month series on Progressive Pockets. As we dive into this series, let’s start by acknowledging a feeling many of us are having right now. According to the American Psychological Association, a staggering two-thirds of us are experiencing climate anxiety. In today’s episode, let’s explore practical strategies for reframing our approach to climate change. Let’s talk about how to shift from despair to action, and how to maintain the energy and re...
Send us a text Are you ready for climate month at Progressive Pockets? Let’s talk about dealing with climate anxiety. Let’s dig into banks and retirement accounts that actually care about the environment. Let’s talk about sustainable landscaping... that’s still cute. Sound good? Subscribe to Progressive Pockets wherever you listen to podcasts. Love the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf: https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets As an affiliate of Bo...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about a great book by Ha-Joon Chang, it’s called 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism. The book is easy to read, even if you don’t have a background in economics, or even if you’re a little suspicious of the field. ICYMI another episode you might enjoy: Episode#118 Maybe banks don’t have to suck: an intro to CDFIs Love the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf: https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets A...
Send us a text Have you heard people talking about The Great Wealth Transfer and wondered what they were talking about? Do you feel like something’s missing from the conversation? Dive into today’s episode for a quick summary of what’s happening and what no one’s talking about. Links from today’s episode: What is the “great wealth transfer,” and who’ll benefit from it? | Marketplace | December 2024 https://www.marketplace.org/2024/12/12/what-is-the-great-wealth-transfer-and-inheritance-mill...
Send us a text Links from today's episode: These U.S. Companies Are Not Ditching DEI Amid Trump’s Crackdown | Time Magazine March 2025 https://time.com/7261857/us-companies-keep-dei-initiatives-list-trump-diversity-order-crackdown/ Which US companies are pulling back on diversity initiatives? | AP News February 2025 https://apnews.com/article/dei-diversity-equity-inclusion-lawsuits-f2f5e9136ac95d9466ee91c97c7e3be1 Victoria’s Secret Tweaks DEI Language To ‘Inclusion And Belonging’:...
Send us a text How are you feeling today? Are you one of millions of Americans who are feeling stressed and on the verge of current events burnout? Today’s episode is about self care for times like these. Pour a mug of something warm and grab a notebook. The work of building a better world is challenging, and requires that we find opportunities for rest, joy, pleasure, and community. Links from today’s episode: Promoting self care and well-being among feminist activists and women’s ri...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about a wonderful new book by Jasmine Rashid, “The Financial Activist Playbook.” The book covers 8 strategies for everyday people to flex the power of their wallets. The book covers banking, shopping, donating, investing, and earning in ways that can feed our collective well being. Tune in to hear more about the book and find out how to get your own copy today. Links from today’s episode: The Financial Activist Playbook: 8 Strategies for Everyday People t...
Send us a text This week, let’s chat about the beautiful legacy of philanthropy within the jazz community. Let’s talk about community building work by artists like Jon Batiste, Wynton Marsalis, Ella Fitzgerald and others. Links from today’s episode: Jazz and Philanthropy | Bridge Philanthropic Consulting https://bridgephilanthropicconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Iconic-Impact-__-Jazz-and-Philanthropy_v10-Final-1.pdf Wynton Marsalis: how music makes a difference https...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about three ways to be more generous this year! Whether you have five minutes or you have more time, you'll find an idea in this episode that inspires you to become the more generous person that you want to be in 2025. ICYMI another episode you might enjoy: Episode#136 Where does Dolly Pardon donate her money? Love the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf: https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets As an affiliate ...
Send us a text Links from today’s episode: The History and Social Work Legacy of the Black Panther Party 2022, International Journal of Education and Human Developments https://ijehd.cgrd.org/images/vol8no1/1.pdf Black Panther Party Alumni Legacy Network https://bppaln.org/ The Black Panther Party: Challenging Police and Promoting Social Change, National Museum of African American History and Culture https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/black-panther-party-challenging-police-...
Send us a text Too often, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy has been simplified to a few memorable phrases from his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. But did you know that Dr. King held some pretty radical money beliefs? Dr. King advocated for social justice and economic equality for all Americans and his ideas still resonate today. This is one of the most popular episodes of Progressive Pockets, so please enjoy it as we kick of Black History Month! Links from today’s episode:&nb...
Send us a text This week it has finally started to rain in LA and the fires are almost completely contained. As we think about how we can help, please consider supporting the most vulnerable and least supported populations affected by the fires. If you are still considering where to give, here are 8 specific places to consider: https://www.progressivepockets.com/p/la-fires-where-to-donate/ In today’s episode, let’s talk about giving after a natural disaster at four different phases, in...
Send us a text Looking for healthy alternatives to going down the inauguration rabbit hole today? You’re not alone! Tune in to hear some practical self-care strategies to help you navigate today. We’ll explore practical techniques for managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding moments of peace. Whether you’re an activist, a concerned citizen, or just looking for ways to recharge, you’ll likely walk away with at least a few ideas that you can take action on today. Links from today’s ep...
Send us a text Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in the coming year? Today’s episode will help you reflect on your achievements from last year and guide you in making intentional choices about how you spend, donate, invest and bank in 2025. Together, we’ll explore ways to support local businesses, give generously to causes you care about, and invest in companies that align with your values. You'll leave with a personalized action plan to maximize your impact and create positive chang...
Send us a text This week let’s reminisce on the official Progressive Pockets predictions for 2024 and make some new predictions for 2025. In the meantime, please reach out with topics you’d like to hear covered this year on the show! ICYMI another episode you might enjoy: Episode#123 Poor People’s Campaign Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja: Website https://www.progressivepockets.com Twitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me: Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnershi...
Send us a text This week’s episode is a quick recap of the most popular episodes of 2024. Whether you’re a new listener or you want to take a walk down memory lane, enjoy these top picks of the year! Previous Recap Videos Episode#103 Most Popular Episodes of 2023 Episode#62 Most popular episodes of 2022 Most popular episodes of 2024: Episode#147 The surprising truth about what ESG actually meansEpisode#107 Dr. King’s Radical Money BeliefsEpisode#144 How to help your clients invest for more...
Send us a text Did you know that the US has offered tax breaks for charitable donations since income tax rates were increased to fund World War I? What does the IRS recommend to ensure that your donations qualify you for tax breaks? And is all of that effort even worth it? Tune in this week to find out more… Links from today’s episode: Tax deductions for charitable donations | Deloitte https://www2.deloitte.com/ua/en/pages/press-room/press-release/2024/tax-discount-for-charitable-expenses....
Send us a text This week let’s chat about Gen Z and how they tend to invest. As digital natives, Gen Z investors tend to be more comfortable with various investing platforms and apps. As investors who have been exposed to more information about the world, Gen Z investors consider their environmental societal values when they decide whether or not to invest in a company. But just how far are Gen Z investors willing to go to live out their values? Tune in this week to find out. The answer may s...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about a popular book called Decolonizing Wealth by Edgar Villanueva. It is a book about money, giving, and social justice. In today’s episode, we will look at how the history of colonization still affects how wealth is used today, often making inequalities worse. Villanueva’s book challenges us to rethink how we view money and shows us that it can be a tool for healing instead of causing division. Let’s talk about practical ways to change how we think a...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about Giving Tuesday going global and how you might plan your own Giving Tuesday this year! Links from today’s episode: Giving Tuesday campaigns from around the globe https://www.givingtuesday.org/blog/global-leaders-local-movements/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy: Episode#105 Hosting a pop up giving circle for the holidays Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja: Website https://www.progressivepockets.com Twitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work Wi...
Send us a text The Indigenous "Land Back" movement in the US and Canada has gained momentum in recent years across many Indigenous groups, representing a broad fight for decolonization, protecting their culture, and taking care of the environment. Today we will talk about the movement and how WE can support these efforts! Links from today’s episode: Landback https://landback.org/ Land Back Movement https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Back A Tribe Called Red: “Land Back” Song https://you...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about some practical suggestions for hosting a Thanksgiving that’s just a little more sustainable. From planning the meal to polling guests before they show up, you’re sure to leave today’s episode with at least one idea you hadn’t considered before! Links from today’s episode: Time Magazine: Thanksgiving Food Waste Is Nothing To Celebrate. But There Are Ways To Combat It https://time.com/6236321/thanksgiving-food-waste-ways-to-avoid/ Farm-to-Table Thank...
Send us a text This week’s episode is raw and unedited. It’s a heart to heart about where we go from here. ICYMI another episode you might enjoy: Episode#105 Introducing Progressive Pockets! New name, same great taste Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja: Website https://www.progressivepockets.com Twitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me: Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements. Easy Ways to Support the Show ...
Send us a text In this week's replay, let's explore the powerful influence of small-dollar donations in American politics. You don’t need to be a billionaire to make a difference! Let’s talk about the rapid fundraising that has characterized the early days of VP Kamala Harris’ run for President of the United States and the role that the Win With Black Women collective played in her early successes. Let’s talk about the difference between giving to a candidate and giving to a political a...
Send us a text Ever think about what your bank is doing with your cash? Whether your bank uses the cash in your checking and savings account to fund fossil fuel companies or gun manufacturers, the reality is that the banks are using their own set of societal values to deploy our cash every single day. In today’s episode, let’s talk about community focused, mission driven banks that might actually share your values! The cash sitting in our bank accounts can be used to fund affordable housing i...
Send us a text Welcome back to Progressive Pockets! This is a podcast where we talk about ways to line up our values and our money. When we think about the things that keep us up at night. Whether that’s climate change, or homelessness, or the systematic oppression of our communities, we usually talk about how we can claim our power when we vote. Some of us might protest, or organize ourselves in other ways. But what about….our money? Where do we bank, where do we shop, where do we donate? Wh...
Send us a text In this episode, let’s chat about charitable giving among Latino Americans, including formal and informal giving, the surprising role of religious giving, and the huge impact of remittances (sending money back to one’s country of origin) from this community. Let’s also talk about cultural differences in how Latine Americans might discuss (or choose not to discuss!) their charitable giving. If you are a Latine American listener of this show, tune in for some ideas on how to join...
Send us a text Today’s episode is about a fun activity to consider trying with your friends, coworkers, or fellow book club members. You might have heard of giving circles before, where you meet regularly with a group of people and pool your money and then decide collectively where to donate. But have you ever heard of a pop up giving circle? This is a very condensed version of that! No long term commitment, no complicated scheduling! It’s pretty genius. Invite a group of similarly mind...
Send us a text Long gone are the days when investors left their societal values at the door. These days, most investors want to invest with their environmental and social values in mind. If you are a financial advisor, you may feel intimidated or skeptical about how to serve clients who want you to incorporate their societal values into their financial plans. This week’s episode provides simple suggestions to guide advisors (or DIY investors!) on how to incorporate values aligned principles i...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about Winners Take All: the Elite Charade of Changing the World by Anand Giridharadas. Published in 2018, this book became a New York Times Bestseller and fired off a conversation about whether powerful elites really want to change the root causes of the social problems they claim to care about. Endlessly quotable, provocative, interesting…this book just might be what you need for your next flight. Check out today’s episode to help you decide. Links from ...
Send us a text In this episode of Progressive Pockets, let's explore the topic of conscious travel, focusing on how to respect local cultures while prioritizing environmental sustainability. Discover practical tips for engaging with communities, understanding local customs, and avoiding cultural faux pas. We'll also discuss sustainable travel practices, such as supporting local economies, reducing waste, and choosing eco-friendly accommodations. Whether you're a low-key traveler o...
Send us a text This week, let's explore how everyday shareholders can wield surprising influence over corporate behavior. Discover the power of your single vote and learn about the impact of attending annual general meetings. You'll hear about real-world success stories where small shareholders sparked big changes in major companies. From leveraging social media to engage with corporations to joining forces with other shareholders, this episode is packed with actionable insights. ...
Send us a text It’s time for another book review! This episode is about a book titled Activate Your Money: Invest to Grow Your Wealth and Build a Better World by Janine Firpo. It is an accessible, handy guide to learning more about investing and the practical changes we can make to align our societal values with our investments. You don’t have to be a billionaire to invest your values, this book has practical advice on how to get started. Links from today’s episode: Activate Your Money, the...
Send us a text It’s time for the celebrity giving series! Whether you love celebrity gossip or you want to be inspired to shake up your own giving, it can be so much fun to learn where celebrities donate their money. This week let’s chat about Serena Williams! Her giving has evolved over time and gives a sneak peek into the causes she cares most about. Links from today’s episode: The philanthropic ventures of Serena Williams | August 2022 https://march8.com/articles/the-philanthropic-venture...
Send us a text In this episode, let’s explore Chrissy Teigen and John Legend’s philanthropy, highlighting their commitment to social causes. Let’s talk about their partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities, where they helped to raise funds to support families with sick children and their support of Planned Parenthood. Let’s also discuss their $200,000 donation to the Time's Up Legal Defense Fund, on behalf of the heroic gymnasts of the US Olympic Team who spoke out against abuse ...
Send us a text Let’s continue the celebrity giving series! Whether you love celebrity gossip or you want to be inspired to shake up your own giving, it can be so much fun to learn where celebrities donate their money. This week let’s chat about Taylor Swift’s giving. Let’s talk about her contributions to causes like music education, disaster relief, and whether the food pantry donations in conjunction with her Eras tour go far enough. Tune in this week to find out more. Links from tod...
Send us a text In this episode, let's explore the remarkable philanthropic efforts of country music legend Dolly Parton. We'll dive into her most significant charitable initiatives, including the Dollywood Foundation and its flagship program, the Imagination Library, which has distributed millions of books to children worldwide. Let's discuss Parton's commitment to education, from reducing high school dropout rates to providing college scholarships. The episode will highlight Parton's disaste...
Send us a text In this episode, let's explore the powerful influence of small-dollar donations in American politics. You don’t need to be a billionaire to make a difference! Let’s talk about the rapid fundraising that has characterized the early days of VP Kamala Harris’ run for President of the United States and the role that the Win With Black Women collective played in her early successes. Let’s talk about the difference between giving to a candidate and giving to a political action ...
Send us a text Usually on this show we talk about the power of our wallets to build the world we want. This week, let’s talk about how we can extend our power just a little bit further, to our places of work. There are lots of ways to serve as a financial ally to the planet and to our community. This week, we’ll talk about five ways that are probably easier than you might think. Practice salary transparency.Propose a socially responsible 401K option if your company doesn’t already have one.&n...
Send us a text This week let’s talk about a wildly successful student campaign to convince universities across America to divest from South Africa’s apartheid. This mini history lesson includes efforts from students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Harvard University, Johns Hopkins, Princeton, Stanford, the University of California system, UNC Chapel Hill, and more. This episode also briefly touches on the campaigns that have come after the anti-apartheid effort such a...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about using our consumer power for social change. Learn how our everyday purchases can become a force for good, from "buycotts" to boycotts to organized campaigns. Hear real-world examples of consumer-driven change, tackle the challenges of ethical shopping, and reveal strategies for aligning your spending with your values. Whether you're a seasoned activist or just starting to think about the impact of your dollar, this episode will inspire you to harness ...
Send us a text This week, let’s chat about how to make your money work for both you and the world. From environmental sustainability to gender equality, learn how to screen out harmful companies and support those actively solving societal issues. Let’s also talk about how to leverage your shareholder voice to drive positive change. Tune in for actionable tips on making your investments a force for good while still keeping an eye on returns. Links from today’s episode: Sustainable Investing: A...
Send us a text The philosophy of Effective Altruism captured the minds and wallets of Silicon Valley's elite - using reason and evidence to maximize positive impact. But is this clinical approach to the world’s problems really possible? And what happens now, after the shocking downfall of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, once a leader of the Effective Altruism community? In this episode, let’s examine Effective Altruism’s core principles of earning to give, cause prioritization, and longtermism...
Send us a text Here’s this week’s letter: I got the day off for Juneteenth and I’m trying to think about ways to honor the holiday and incorporate it into my family’s annual traditions. We have a nice tradition in my family of volunteering on Thanksgiving, we love it, it’s fun, it brings the family together, it reminds us to practice gratitude. We usually spend some time that weekend learning more about Native American history as a family and that has felt right for my family. What can we do ...
Send us a text Do you donate money or volunteer your time for charitable causes? If so, you're engaging in philanthropic activities. But would you actually call yourself a "philanthropist"? According to a recent report from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, there's a major disconnect between the public's understanding of philanthropy and how people view themselves in relation to it. While 60% of Americans donated to charity and 30% volunteered in the past year, only ...
Send us a text Ever wonder how to separate the charities genuinely driving impact from those just paying lip service? In this candid episode, you'll get the inside scoop on a personal vetting process for ensuring your donations create real positive change. You'll gain an insider's perspective on: Cutting Through the Fluff: Learn a litmus test for identifying charities with laser-focused, measurable missions (and calling out the vague, meaningless ones). You'll discover how to spot organizatio...
Send us a text In a world grappling with climate change and animal welfare concerns, a new investment trend is taking root - vegan investing. This episode dives deep into the rapidly growing world of cruelty-free, plant-based portfolios. We'll explore how vegan ETFs like VEGN are empowering investors to align their money with their values, without sacrificing returns. Whether you're a hardcore vegan or a conscious capitalist, this eye-opening episode will inspire you to build a portfolio that...
Send us a text Many Americans are unaware that their retirement savings may be profiting off mass incarceration. In this eye-opening episode, we explore how major corporations and Wall Street firms are making billions by operating prisons and exploiting incarcerated workers. You’ll learn how to use the free Prison Free Funds tool to easily check if your 401(k), IRA or other investment funds are invested in private prisons and related companies. Most importantly, you’ll hear actionable s...
Send us a text Are you passionate about having a positive impact in the world but unsure how to incorporate that into your financial strategy? In this episode, we'll explore how to have a thoughtful conversation with your financial advisor about aligning your investments with your social impact goals. You'll learn: The key questions to ask your advisor to understand their knowledge and approach to socially responsible investing. This will help you assess if they are up-to-date on the latest t...
Send us a text This week let’s chat about the Poor People’s Campaign. This is a revival of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s radical campaign to unite poor people across the country to fight for an “economic bill of rights” including a guaranteed basic income and affordable housing. Fifty years later, the torch has been picked up by Rev. Dr. William Barber and Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharris. They have dedicated their lives to fighting for the poor, and have been gaining momentum in this modern renewal o...
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