Positive Impact Philanthropy Podcast

In this episode, Lori speaks with two leaders whose personal stories fueled a shared mission to transform literacy access for children across the country. Robin Zikmund, co-founder of the IMSE Foundation, and Krista Gauthier, the foundation's executive director, open up about their experiences navigating the challenges of raising children with dyslexia and how those journeys led them to create systemic solutions through advocacy, educator training, and innovative literacy programs. Together, they share how the IMSE Foundation is working to equip teachers, empower families, and create long-term impact through community-based programs that pair evidence-based reading instruction with STEM enrichment opportunities.   In this episode, Lori, Robin, and Krista discuss: The personal experiences that led Robin and Krista into advocacy and ultimately into founding and leading the IMSE Foundation The widespread misunderstanding of dyslexia and why early identification is critical for long-term success How teacher scholarships and structured literacy training create exponential impact for students The "Books, Bots, and Beyond" initiative and how combining reading intervention with STEM exploration builds confidence and expands opportunity The harsh realities faced by children who go unidentified and unsupported, including the connection between illiteracy and incarceration The role of community, partnership, and perseverance when launching and growing nonprofit initiatives How both guests think about legacy and the future they hope to create for children nationwide   IMSE Foundation Website: https://imsefoundation.org/IMSE Foundation Contact Page: https://imsefoundation.org/contact/ IMSE Foundation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559285062865 IMSE Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imse_foundation/?hl=en   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

In this episode of Positive Impact Philanthropy, Lori Kranczer speaks with Siobhan Frost, co-founder and CEO of Endless. Siobhan shares how a surf trip in Portugal sparked her passion to tackle plastic pollution and led her to create Endless, a sunscreen brand built on sustainability, design, and purpose. Growing up in Australia, she learned the importance of environmental stewardship early on, and now she's combining her branding expertise with her commitment to protecting both people and the planet. Through her story, Siobhan highlights how small, thoughtful actions can create ripple effects for meaningful change. From her early inspirations to building a product that merges health, beauty, and environmental care, she's redefining what it means to make business a force for good. You'll hear about: How a moment in the ocean inspired Siobhan's commitment to sustainability The journey from branding and design to building a purpose-driven company How Endless combines sunscreen, style, and sustainability in one refillable product Why collaboration and peer networks are key to growing impactful brands The role of design in making sustainable habits easier for everyone The connection between her upbringing and her environmental values Siobhan's vision for a world free of single-use plastics and her lasting legacy of change   Siobhan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siobhanfrost/ Endless Website: https://www.iamendless.co/Endless Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamendless.co/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

In this episode, Lori speaks with Katie Dunn, angel investor, board director, and startup advisor, about how curiosity, access, and education drive her approach to investing and impact. Katie shares how her career in commercial real estate led her to angel investing and how she now focuses on supporting underrepresented founders while promoting accessibility and transparency in the investment world.   You'll learn about: Katie's journey from real estate lending to angel investing How curiosity and lifelong learning shape her investment decisions The myths and realities of angel investing for new investors Making social impact part of a company's DNA What she looks for in founders and why passion matters Her work supporting women entrepreneurs through board and advisory roles Why accessibility in funding and education is her biggest mission The legacy she hopes to build by opening doors for others   Katie's Business Website: https://www.themastheadstrategy.com/ Katie's Personal Website: https://www.katiedunn.com/Katie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie--dunn/ Katie's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamkatiedunn Katie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiedunn/ SWITCH Angels: https://switchthefuture.com/capital/the-angel-sessions/ Yale Women on Boards Program: https://som.yale.edu/executive-education/for-individuals/leadership/women-on-boards Wefunder: https://wefunder.com/StartEngine: https://invest.startengine.com/ Republic: https://republic.com/Juliet Wine: https://drinkjuliet.com/Private Directors Association: https://www.privatedirectors.org/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

In this episode, Lori speaks with Gigi Danziger, founder and investor at Eutopia Foundation, about her work creating hyperlocal philanthropic models in Hudson, New York. Gigi shares how her family history, values, and desire for community connection led her to launch initiatives such as a basic income pilot, affordable housing, medical debt relief, and the Spark of Hudson learning hub. Her story highlights how philanthropy can thrive when it's rooted in trust, sustainability, and co-creation with the community.   You'll hear about: How Gigi's family history inspired her philanthropic values The design and impact of Hudson's basic income pilot Why seeding power and trust are key to community-based philanthropy Clearing medical debt as a model for other communities The role of Spark of Hudson as a learning hub and gathering place Building sustainable, equitable models for affordable housing and farming Why starting small and hyperlocal creates scalable models for broader impact How Gigi views her legacy as sparking others to thrive   Gigi's Email: founders@sparkofhudson.org Spark of Hudson Website: https://sparkofhudson.org/Spark of Hudson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Spark-of-Hudson-100063508631540/ Spark of Hudson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkofhudson/?hl=en Wally Farms Website: https://wallyfarms.com/HudsonUp Basic Income Pilot: https://sparkofhudson.org/hudsonup HudsonDots Innovative Housing: https://sparkofhudson.org/hudsondots HudsonStep Initiative: https://sparkofhudson.org/hudsonstep HudsonNest Residence: https://sparkofhudson.org/hudsonnest Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori as she talks with Kate Assaraf, Founder and CEO of Dip Sustainable Hair Care, to discuss how beauty choices can spark environmental change. Most of us never realize that simply changing our choice of shampoo and conditioner can make a real difference. Discover why it's time to switch to this impactful brand and be part of creating a greener, more beautiful world!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Kate's inspiration for creating a sustainable hair care brand How Dip started and its positive impact on the planet The hidden truths about plastic waste and fast fashion Why Dip is a smart choice for conscious consumers Practical tips to reduce waste And much more! Dip Website: https://dipalready.com/ Dip Surfrider Shampoo for a Cause: https://dipalready.com/products/surfrider-colorsafe-shampoo-fragrance-free?_pos=1&_sid=cc68fb926&_ss=r. Dip Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dipalready Dip TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dipalready Kate's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-assaraf-b25a741a7/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori in this inspiring episode as she chats with Kimberly Lau, Founder and CEO of Project Rewear—a thrifting shop with a powerful mission. Many of us don't realize that something as simple as thrifting or rewearing can spark real change. Tune in to get inspired and see how you can make a difference—starting right in your own closet!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How Kimberly turned an idea into a movement What Project Rewear truly is—and why it's more than just a thrift shop How Kimberly's approach breaks the mold of traditional thrifting The unique in-store experience that goes beyond just shopping And much more! Project ReWear Website: https://www.projectrewear.com/ Project ReWear Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project.rewear/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori in this inspiring conversation with Kristin Thomas, Founder and CEO of Marble Collective, an AI-powered platform designed for high-impact women leaders. Social media can be overwhelming and noisy, but Marble Collective helps you rise above the chaos. Discover how the platform connects you with the right people to amplify your voice, increase your visibility, and expand your impact — so your legacy reaches exactly who it's meant to inspire!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: The personal journey behind building a mission-driven, AI-powered platform What sets Marble Collective apart from traditional online networks Ways it connects purpose-driven women with aligned opportunities and communities How AI is being used to strategically amplify your voice and visibility And much more! Kristin's Bio: https://marblecollective.com/kristin.thomas Marble Collective: https://marblecollective.com/ Marble Collective Application: https://marblecollective.com/about/founding-membership   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori as she sits down with Rafia Qureshi, Managing Director of Strategic Initiatives at LEBEC, a for-profit organization that's redefining how we fund change. Rafia shares powerful insights that will resonate with changemakers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone curious about using money more intentionally for greater impact.   Get ready to be inspired by real-world examples of how LEBEC is driving meaningful, lasting change — and why reimagining philanthropy might be the key to unlocking a better future!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Rafia's journey that led her to join the organization What motivates Rafia to drive meaningful impact through innovative finance and philanthropy How LEBEC brings capital to high-impact projects and initiatives The importance of passing on the values of intentional giving and impact to the next generation And much more! Rafia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafia-qureshi-7331b92/ LEBEC's Website: https://lebec.co/ LEBEC's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebec-co/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com 

Join Lori in this inspiring conversation with Tulaine Montgomery, CEO of New Profit, as they dive into the power of strategic partnerships that drive lasting impact. New Profit goes beyond funding, offering guidance, support, and collaboration to turn bold visions into sustainable realities. If you're passionate about making a difference, this episode shares how to build meaningful, long-term change!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How New Profit collaborates with philanthropists, donors, and leaders.  Unforgettable examples of lasting change sparked by bold partnerships. Why giving nonprofits unrestricted capital leads to greater results. The powerful role parents play in shaping a child's future to serve others. And much more! New Profit's Website: https://newprofit.org/ Tulaine's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tulaine_montgomery/ Tulaine's X: https://x.com/TulaineM Tulaine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tulainemontgomery/ Tulaine's Podcast: https://tulainemontgomery.com/say-more   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori in a conversation with Isabelle Grosmaitre, Founder and CEO of Goodness & Co., as they explore how businesses can show their contribution and impact on society. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode will leave you rethinking the role of business in creating a better world!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: The concept of "business as a force for good." Three fundamental elements for creating a meaningful business impact. How Goodness & Co helps organizations reinvent themselves for better futures. Brands and companies showcasing positive change and impact. And much more! Goodness & Co Website: https://goodnessandco.one/ Isabelle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelle-grosmaitre-changemaker/?locale=en_US   Check out Isabelle's book, Business as a Force for Good: How courageous leaders shift purpose into practice, on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Business-Force-Good-courageous-practice/dp/2959606906   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori in a conversation with Jessie Freschl, CEO of Freschstyle and Founder of Repurpose Wardrobe, as they explore how luxury fashion can be a catalyst for meaningful change and sustainability. This is just one powerful example of how creativity and purpose can come together to make a lasting impact!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Jessie's journey from a fashion background to founding Repurpose Wardrobe. The inspiration behind Jessie's decision to create a nonprofit centered around luxury clothing. How fashion can build relationships, foster learning, and develop skills. How Jessie's Renew Program supports and empowers students. And much more! Jessie's Website: https://www.jessiefreschl.com/ Jessie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessie-freschl-763a5814/ Jessie's Substack: https://www.jessiefreschl.com/substack Jessie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freschstyle/ Repurpose Wardrobe Website: https://shoprepurpose.org/ Repurpose Wardrobe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoprepurpose/ RENEW Program Website: https://shoprepurpose.org/pages/the-curriculum?_ab=0&key=1713198248405   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori as she speaks with Gloria Feldt, Co-Founder and President of Take the Lead, an organization dedicated to advancing women's leadership. Gloria empowers women to embrace their power confidently, joyfully, and with bold intentions, inspiring them to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Gloria's journey in founding the organization Take the Lead. The concept of reframing power and how it can empower women to embrace leadership roles. Gloria's vision for women's pay, power, and leadership equality. The success stories of women who have gone through Take the Lead's programs. And much more! Gloria's Website: https://gloriafeldt.com/ Gloria's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriafeldt/ Gloria's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GloriaFeldt.PublicFigure Gloria's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gloriafeldt/ Take The Lead's Website: https://www.taketheleadwomen.com/ Take The Lead's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TakeTheLeadWomen Take The Lead's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeleadwomen/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori as she chats with Dana Dornsife, Founder of the Lazarex Cancer Foundation, about her inspiring journey in philanthropy and healthcare advocacy. After witnessing the challenges of accessing clinical trials and patients' financial burdens, Dana established a nationwide foundation dedicated to making a difference. Her work has had a profound impact not only on cancer patients but also on their families!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Dana's personal experience that led her to create the Lazarex Cancer Foundation. How the foundation has grown since it started. What inspired Dana to give back, and how her work impacted her children? The foundation's current challenges and its future vision. And much more! Dana's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-dornsife-83a7b56/ Dana's Email: dana@lazarex.org Lazarex Website: https://lazarex.org/ Lazarex Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LazarexCancerFoundation Lazarex Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lazarexcf/ Lazarex LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lazarex-cancer-foundation/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori for an inspiring chat with Kate Kennedy, a writer and nonprofit consultant who founded a school in Atlanta for children without housing in 2018. With no prior experience, Kate's determination turned her vision into a reality, changing countless children's and their families' lives. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the difference one person can make!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Kate's journey from being a stay-at-home mom to establishing a tuition-free private school.  The foundation of the school and initial challenges. The importance of conducting community research and stakeholder interviews before starting a nonprofit initiative. Implementing a family philanthropy tradition to teach children about responsible giving. And much more! Kate's Website: https://www.katekennedywrites.com/ Kate's Book, Once Upon a School: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/once-upon-a-school-kate-kennedy/1145807910 Boyce L. Ansley School: https://theansleyschool.org/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori for an inspiring conversation with Dianne Bailey, National Philanthropic Executive at Bank of America, as they explore the transformative power of philanthropy and the importance of generational giving. Her experiences offer a fresh perspective on the role of generosity in shaping a better future! Stay tuned!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How did Dianne's parents inspire her philanthropic journey? The impact of unrestricted grants. How the rising generation (millennials and Gen Z) approaches philanthropy differently. The importance of endowments, volunteer engagement, and strategies for inspiring future generations in philanthropy. And much more! Dianne's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannechippsbailey/ Dianne's Twitter: https://x.com/dianne_c_bailey Bank of America Philanthropic Strategy: https://about.bankofamerica.com/en/making-an-impact/charitable-foundation-funding Bank of America Study of Wealthy Americans: https://www.privatebank.bankofamerica.com/articles/generational-divide-wealth-study.html Bank of America Article–Five Stages of Charitable Giving: https://www.privatebank.bankofamerica.com/articles/stages-of-family-philanthropy.html   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori for an inspiring conversation with Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of Newman's Own Foundation, as they explore how the foundation is dedicated to nourishing and uplifting the lives of children facing adversity. Alex delves into the profound impact of philanthropy and emphasizes the significance of starting small to create meaningful change!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Alex's professional journey before joining Newman's Own Foundation. The Newman's Own Foundation's mission and focus areas. Alex's advice to those who want to transition from the corporate to the nonprofit sector. Resources for the philanthropic journey. And much more! Alex's Website: https://www.yourimpactlife.com/ Alex's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-amouyel-6a8a1a10/ Newman's Own Foundation: https://newmansown.org/   Alex's Book, The Answer is You: A Guidebook to Creating a Life Full of Impact: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-answer-is-you-alex-amouyel/1140772974?ean=9781642507218   The Blue Sweater by Jacqueline Novogratz: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/594025/the-blue-sweater-by-jacqueline-novogratz/   Decolonizing Wealth by Edgar Villanueva: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/588996/decolonizing-wealth-second-edition-by-edgar-villanueva/   Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World by Scott Shigeoka: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seek-scott-shigeoka/1143160891?ean=9781538740811.   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori as she speaks with Cathy Bissell, Founder of the Bissell Pet Foundation, to discuss the foundation's unwavering commitment to supporting animal shelters and rescues throughout the United States. Cathy shares how the foundation raises awareness about the challenges shelter animals face and strives to give these animals a second chance at finding a loving home!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Cathy's personal journey that changed her life and inspired her to advocate for shelter animals. What are the challenges animal shelters face, and how can people support and help? The main initiatives of the Bissel Pet Foundation. How can parents instill philanthropic values in their children from a young age? And much more! Bissell Pet Foundation Website: https://www.bissellpetfoundation.org/# Bissell Pet Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bissellpets/ Bissell Pet Foundation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bissellpets Cathy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathy_bissell/ Cathy's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cathy-Bissell-100044530445611/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori and her guest, Louisa Li, Founder of Shanti House, as they discuss the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness and their impact on entrepreneurs. Many entrepreneurs find themselves overwhelmed with the pressures of running a business, often neglecting their mental health and personal values. Through Shanti House, Louisa is dedicated to supporting individuals in finding balance, enhancing their sense of purpose, and thriving in all aspects of life!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Louisa's career transition pursued a personal calling that has a more tangible impact. The most common challenges startup founders face in the early stages of their business. What inspired the creation of Shanti House, and how did it come to life? Benefits entrepreneurs gain from Louisa's unique blend of yoga and business consulting. And much more! Louisa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisa-li-47247832/ Shanti House website: https://www.shantihouse.co/ Shanti House LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shanti-house-co/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com 

Join Lori and her guest, Estefania Palomino, Senior Manager of Philanthropic Relations at the United Nations Global Compact, as they explore the vital role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives in today's world. Everyone has a role to play in addressing the pressing challenges of our time, and even the smallest contributions can help pave the way toward a more responsible and inclusive future!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: How did Estefania's childhood experiences shape her decision to pursue a career in the philanthropic sector? In what ways do ESG initiatives address the most pressing environmental and social challenges of our time? The power of strategic thinking and leveraging resources for positive change. Some unique approaches to philanthropy Estefania observed in different countries. The importance of collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders. And much more! Estefania's Email: estefaniapalomino@gmail.com Estefania's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/estefaniapalomino/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com   

Join Lori and her guest, Suzanne McKenzie, the Founder and CEO of Able Made, as they discuss a unique soccer-inspired apparel and accessories brand with a mission to give back to youth soccer foundations. Able Made stands out not only for its stylish and high-quality products but also for its commitment to positively impacting communities and the environment!    Here are the things to expect in this episode: Able Made and its mission. What inspired Suzanne to start a soccer-inspired brand that gives back to youth soccer foundations? The importance of strategic partnerships in the growth of both Able Made and the Breakaway Foundation. How does compelling storytelling help in conveying a brand's mission and values? And much more! Able Made Website: https://ablemadeshop.com/ Able Made Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ablemade/ Suzanne's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-mckenzie-0488936/ Ucal Mckenzie Breakaway Foundation: https://ucalbreakaway.com/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com