Money to Give

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Jennifer V. Abelaj, founder of Abelaj Law in New York City and a nationally respected nonprofit and tax attorney. Together, they unpack the sweeping implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — and what it means for donors, fundraisers, and charitable organizations moving forward. Jennifer explains how the new legislation reshapes charitable giving by introducing a 0.5% nondeductible floor for itemized deductions starting in 2026. She explores how this change may influence donor behavior, prompting strategies like “bunching” contributions, and shares practical steps nonprofits can take now to prepare for a new fundraising landscape. The conversation also delves into the crucial operational side of nonprofit readiness: developing gift acceptance policies, understanding risks tied to large donations, and maintaining public charity status under the IRS’s public support test. Jennifer and Rick close by discussing emerging trends in the sector — from nonprofit mergers to dissolutions — and what these shifts reveal about the evolving charitable ecosystem. The conversation explores: Key tax law changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act How “bunching” affects donor giving strategies Preparing nonprofits for larger, less frequent gifts Protecting public charity status and avoiding compliance pitfalls About the Guest Jennifer V. Abelaj is the founder and principal attorney at Abelaj Law, where she focuses on tax, estate, and nonprofit law. Known for her clarity and integrity, Jennifer advises charities, philanthropists, and foundations on how to operate with legal precision and long-term sustainability. Her practice combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of the philanthropic sector’s human side — helping organizations do good, do it well, and do it right. 📧 Contact Jennifer: JVA@abelajlaw.com 🌐 Learn more: www.abelajlaw.com Key Takeaways The One Big Beautiful Bill Act creates a 0.5% floor for itemized charitable deductions starting in 2026. “Bunching” contributions can help donors maximize tax benefits. Nonprofits must update gift policies and donor engagement guidelines. Monitoring the public support test is critical to maintaining 501(c)(3) status. Mergers and dissolutions are rising — underscoring the need for strong governance and planning. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck welcomes back Randy Fox, founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services and a nationally recognized expert in charitable estate and trust planning. Together, they unpack a highly sophisticated yet underutilized planning strategy — the Balloon Charitable Lead Annuity Trust (CLAT), also known as the Shark Fin CLAT. Randy explains how this specialized trust structure reverses the more familiar charitable remainder trust model — allowing donors to give income to charity for a set period, while the remaining assets eventually pass to family members. He demystifies how the balloon structure works, why it can be paired effectively with life insurance, and how it offers both income tax deductions and long-term family benefits. With clarity and humor, Randy walks through examples showing how donors can turn liquidity events — such as a business sale or large stock payout — into meaningful charitable impact while transferring wealth to the next generation tax-efficiently. Rick and Randy also explore why CLATs, despite their power and flexibility, remain so underutilized, and how greater awareness among advisors could change that. The conversation explores: What a Charitable Lead Annuity Trust (CLAT) is — and how it differs from a charitable remainder trust How “Balloon” or “Shark Fin” CLATs work, with charitable payments deferred until later years How CLATs can offset large income events and generate 100% charitable income tax deductions Why CLATs are ideal for high-income individuals, business owners, or families experiencing liquidity events About the Guest Randy Fox is the founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services, a leading advisory firm specializing in advanced estate, tax, and charitable planning. With nearly four decades of experience, Randy is widely respected for helping families and philanthropists transform complex financial strategies into vehicles for purpose and legacy. His expertise bridges the gap between wealth transfer and philanthropy, making him a trusted educator and innovator in the field. 📧 Contact Randy: randy@twohawksfos.com 🌐 Learn more: www.twoharksfos.com Key Takeaways A Balloon or Shark Fin CLAT allows donors to defer charitable payments, enabling assets to grow and maximize both tax savings and family legacy. These trusts can generate substantial income tax deductions — often up to 100% of the contribution amount — while keeping assets working for both charity and heirs. CLATs are most effective for donors with major income or liquidity events, such as a business sale or large bonus. Proper structuring, timing, and appraisals are essential — these complex tools require experienced advisors to ensure compliance. CLATs are powerful yet underused; as Randy notes, they deserve far greater attention from advisors and philanthropically minded clients alike. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.

In this insightful episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck welcomes back Randy Fox, founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services and a leading voice in charitable estate planning. Together, they explore an often-overlooked concept that can have major implications for business owners and philanthropists alike — personal goodwill. Randy explains the difference between enterprise goodwill (the reputation and systems tied to a business itself) and personal goodwill (the value that comes from an individual’s reputation, relationships, and expertise). He illustrates how, in many closely held businesses, personal goodwill represents an asset of significant — yet frequently unrecognized — value. The conversation dives deep into how identifying and valuing personal goodwill can unlock powerful charitable planning opportunities. Randy and Rick discuss how, by separating this goodwill from other business assets during a sale, owners can potentially avoid capital gains, claim charitable deductions, and even fund tools like donor-advised funds, charitable remainder trusts, or pooled income funds. Throughout the discussion, Randy highlights real-world examples and emphasizes that understanding goodwill isn’t just an accounting concept — it’s a pathway to aligning business success with philanthropic purpose. The conversation explores: The distinction between enterprise goodwill and personal goodwill How business owners can identify and appraise their personal goodwill Why goodwill can be treated as a capital asset — and its tax implications How to donate personal goodwill to charitable vehicles like donor-advised funds, CRTs, or pooled income funds About the Guest Randy Fox is the founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services, a nationally recognized expert in advanced estate, tax, and charitable planning. With nearly four decades of experience, he advises families, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists on how to structure gifts that maximize both impact and efficiency. Randy is known for translating complex financial strategies into meaningful acts of generosity that benefit donors and the causes they care about. Contact Randy: randy@twohawksfos.com Learn more: www.twohawksfos.com Key Takeaways: Personal goodwill is the value tied to your reputation, relationships, and expertise — and it can often be separated from your business in a sale. This intangible asset can be donated to charitable vehicles to avoid capital gains and create lasting philanthropic impact. Transactions must be carefully structured — ideally before signing a binding letter of intent. Proper valuation is critical; use qualified appraisers familiar with goodwill assessments. Strategic planning can turn business success into ongoing charitable influence while optimizing tax outcomes. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Randy Fox, founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services and a nationally recognized expert in charitable estate planning. Together, they unpack one of the most versatile yet underutilized tools in philanthropy: the pooled income fund. Randy explains how pooled income funds — often overshadowed by charitable remainder trusts and gift annuities — can provide donors with lifetime income, flexible investment options, and significant tax advantages, all while creating long-term charitable impact. The conversation explores: What pooled income funds are and how they differ from charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) and charitable gift annuities (CGAs) How both major universities and community foundations use these funds to support their missions Why modern “donor- and advisor-friendly” pooled income funds are making a comeback The flexibility to accept a wide range of assets — from real estate and closely held business interests to cryptocurrency Innovative structures like Randy’s “Preferred Pooled Income Fund,” which combine charitable giving with advanced estate planning strategies Randy also shares how younger donors and multi-generational families can use these funds to align income, impact, and legacy in a single strategy. About the Guest: Randy Fox is the founder of Two Hawks Family Office Services, a leading advisor in advanced estate, tax, and charitable planning. With decades of experience helping families and philanthropists design meaningful giving strategies, Randy is known for blending technical expertise with a deep commitment to purposeful legacy building. Contact Randy: randy@twohawksfos.comLearn more: www.twoharksfos.com Key Takeaways: Pooled income funds are flexible tools that provide lifetime income and charitable impact without the rigid rules of CRTs. Donors of any age can participate, making them ideal for multi-generational legacy planning. They can accept complex assets — from real estate to private stock to digital currency. Modern pooled funds allow donors and advisors greater choice in investment management and charitable beneficiaries. Creativity matters — as Randy shows through innovations like the “Preferred Pooled Income Fund,” philanthropy continues to evolve with donor needs. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: ⁠Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You⁠.

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and CEO of Globe Aware, to explore how meaningful service abroad can become a powerful expression of philanthropy. Together, they unpack what it means to give not only your resources, but your time, heart, and skills to make a tangible difference in communities around the world. Kimberly shares stories from 25 years of leading Globe Aware’s international service programs—where volunteers help install clean cooking stoves in Peru, build classrooms in Cambodia, and construct wheelchair ramps for those in need. These short-term, high-impact experiences allow busy professionals and families to engage directly with local communities and see their contributions come to life. The conversation also explores: How employers are supporting service abroad through volunteer paydays and matching gifts How donor-advised funds and charitable foundations can fund volunteer experiences The importance of cultural awareness and working side-by-side with local leaders Why short-term volunteer trips can spark lifelong global connection and empathy By the end, listeners are invited to see giving as a holistic act — one that blends purpose, adventure, and compassion across borders. About the Guest: Kimberly Haley-Coleman is the Founder and CEO of Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization offering sustainable, short-term volunteer programs in 26 countries worldwide. A passionate advocate for cultural understanding and service learning, Kimberly helps individuals and corporations turn their desire to give back into real-world impact. Learn more: www.globeaware.org Follow Globe Aware on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Key Takeaways: Philanthropy is more than money — it’s about giving time, talent, and compassion where it’s needed most. Employers play a growing role in global service by offering volunteer benefits and donation matches. Every project counts — from building stoves to teaching skills, volunteers can create lasting, visible change in one week. Cultural humility matters — the most meaningful giving comes from partnership, not prescription. Service transforms both sides — volunteers return home with renewed gratitude, clarity, and purpose. Subscribe to the Charitable Giving News for You newsletter for more stories, resources, and tips: Subscribe to Charitable Giving News for You.

In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck welcomes Nick Burgess, Principal at The Burgess Group, for an eye-opening conversation about how innovative insurance and financial strategies can dramatically expand the impact of philanthropy. Nick has worked with foundations, universities, and nonprofits to help unlock gifts that seemed unimaginable—sometimes turning a donor’s existing giving capacity into transformational, multi-million-dollar endowments. Nick shares remarkable stories, including how one foundation’s ambitious goal of building a $50 million endowment was achieved in just 60 days through creative planning with a single donor. He also describes his work with the Cleveland Clinic, where strategic use of insurance and financing has already secured $1.3 billion toward a $2.3 billion endowment. But this conversation isn’t only about big numbers. Nick emphasizes transparency, integrity, and education, noting that strategies like premium finance life insurance are not for everyone. “This should never be sold as a commodity or as ‘free insurance,’” he cautions. Instead, with the right donors, clear communication, and long-term management, these approaches can create extraordinary results for philanthropy. Listeners will gain insights into: How nonprofits and advisors can uncover untapped capacity for giving. Why endowment-building strategies need both vision and discipline. The importance of stress-testing, transparency, and fit when considering premium finance structures. How the right planning can ensure gifts endure and grow for generations. Nick’s expertise shines a light on possibilities many organizations don’t even know exist. For donors and nonprofit leaders alike, this episode offers a glimpse into what’s possible when generosity meets creativity and integrity.

In this powerful episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck sits down with Trish Kane, CEO and founder of Healerverse. Trish shares her remarkable journey from Wall Street to a near-death experience, to building a platform dedicated to holistic well-being and service to others. Trish’s story is one of resilience, renewal, and generosity. After surviving a nine-day coma and relearning how to walk, talk, and breathe, she committed her life to helping others heal and thrive. Today, through Healerverse, she empowers spiritual practitioners and solopreneurs worldwide to make an impact. Highlights Trish’s personal journey through addiction, recovery, and rediscovering purpose. The role of gratitude, faith, and community in sustaining her new path. The ripple effect of kindness—from holding a door to sponsoring children in Africa. Her commitment to supporting female founders and giving back through her work and investments. Check out the Healerverse online community: https://5dhealerverse.com/home

In this inspiring episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck sits down with Bob Hopkins—author, educator, and lifelong champion of generosity—to explore the true meaning of philanthropy. Bob shares stories from his decades of teaching, writing, and community work, showing how giving is not just about money but about how we live, connect, and care for others. Together, Rick and Bob discuss: Why philanthropy should be understood as love of mankind, not just financial giving The “five Ts” of giving: time, talent, treasure, testimony, and ties How everyday acts of kindness and service make us all philanthropists The impact of Bob’s teaching programs and storytelling through his books His latest project, the award-winning documentary Mighty Eighty Listeners will come away with a broader, more accessible view of philanthropy—and practical inspiration for how to live it out in daily life. Bob Hopkins is the author of Philanthropy Understood – Stories of Generosity, Legacy of Giving, a beautifully designed coffee table book featuring 100 stories of people who have made a difference. He is also the subject of Mighty Eighty, a documentary by award-winning filmmaker Noman Robin, which captures Bob’s life, philosophy, and ongoing work to inspire generosity at every age. Links: Philanthropy Understood: One Hundred‑Plus Stories From Those Who Helped Change the World → Order the book Philanthropy Misunderstood : One Hundred‑Plus Stories From Those Who Helped Change the World → Order the book Mighty Eighty – Profile Documentary (Trailer) → Watch on YouTube

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck welcomes Roger Devine back to share stories from his 20+ years in the fundraising trenches. Together, they explore the fine line between fun and fiasco when it comes to gala games, silent auctions, and paddle raises. From a disastrous “Heads or Tails” game that turned into a debacle, to the perils of overstocking your silent auction, Roger unpacks real cautionary tales every nonprofit planner should hear. He also offers creative, proven strategies—like dessert dashes and timing sugar highs—that keep guests engaged, generous, and excited to return next year. Whether you’re planning your first benefit gala or looking to refine a long-running event, this episode is full of practical takeaways to help you raise more while keeping your mission at the heart of the evening.

In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck sits down with Roger Devine—from SchoolAuction.net—to explore how nonprofit fundraising is shifting in today’s climate of uncertainty. With federal grants under review, private foundations stretched thin, and donors facing economic volatility, many organizations are reconsidering the role of events in their fundraising mix. Roger shares insights from decades of experience running successful benefit events, highlighting what makes them profitable—and what causes so many to break even at best. From the power of a well-timed “special appeal” that can generate 50% of an evening’s revenue, to the importance of engaging mid-level donors, he offers practical strategies nonprofits of any size can use. Listeners will learn: Why relying on a single funding stream is riskier than ever How to design events that generate real income, not just awareness The overlooked power of PTA-style tactics and recurring donations Whether you’re debating whether to scale back or double down on events, this conversation offers clarity, actionable ideas, and inspiration.

In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Patti Parker— financial planner, teacher, and now podcast host—whose personal and professional journey offers wisdom for anyone navigating life’s transitions. With more than 20 years in the financial planning industry, Patti leads Discovery Wealth Management, an independent, fee-only firm dedicated to helping clients find peace during times of significant change. A former registered nurse, Patti brings unique empathy and insight to her clients, especially those dealing with grief or end-of-life planning. She also teaches in the CFP program at UC Irvine and actively serves with professional associations such as NAWBO-OC and Advisors in Philanthropy. What makes Patti’s story remarkable is not just her professional expertise, but her heart. Patti’s mission to connect people with organizations they may not know exist inspired her to create a podcast—introducing underrepresented charities, nonprofits, and other resources that can make a critical difference in times of need. Together, Rick and Patti explore: How personal stories can shape and strengthen philanthropic purpose The importance of creating a family mission statement to guide giving The role of financial advisors in helping clients discover not only what they want to do with their money, but why Practical ways to amplify the impact of nonprofits, especially those doing vital but lesser-known work Whether you’re a donor, an advisor, or someone looking to align your values with your giving, Patti’s story will leave you inspired to connect generosity with healing.

In this episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck sits down with Marc Pollick, founder and president of The Giving Back Fund, for a fascinating conversation on the realities of celebrity philanthropy and the broader nonprofit landscape. Marc shares his unique journey from being a Holocaust scholar and working alongside Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel to building one of the most trusted philanthropic advisory organizations in the world. He explains how a newspaper story about Michael Jordan’s foundation inspired him to dedicate his career to helping athletes, entertainers, and philanthropists create lasting impact through well-run, mission-driven organizations. Listeners will hear candid insights about: Why many celebrity foundations struggle—and how The Giving Back Fund helps them succeed. The challenges of saying “no” to celebrities when compliance and ethics are at stake. How ego and fragmentation often undermine nonprofit collaboration—and what it takes to build unity around a cause. The importance of meaningful giving (not just lending a name) for true philanthropic leadership. Inspiring examples, from Yao Ming’s schools in China to Nexus, a global movement of next-generation changemakers. Marc also opens up about lessons learned from nearly 30 years in philanthropy, what makes an ideal client for The Giving Back Fund, and why collaboration and transparency are essential for impact. If you’ve ever wondered how wealth, celebrity, and purpose intersect—or what it really takes to build a foundation that lasts—this episode offers practical wisdom and eye-opening stories you won’t want to miss. Resources & Links: Learn more about The Giving Back Fund: givingback.org Contact Marc Pollick: mpollick@givingback.org

What if your philanthropic legacy could live on through a feature film—one that entertains, educates, and sparks real-world change? In this episode, Rick Peck sits down with Rosser Goodman, founder of Tano Rising Film, to explore how donor-driven filmmaking can bring underrepresented stories to the big screen. Rosser shares how she partners with families, philanthropists, and advisors to match powerful causes with compelling, pre-existing scripts—stories that might otherwise sit on the shelf. From accurate representation of sensitive topics to integrating calls-to-action right into the moviegoing experience, Tano Rising’s model offers a unique way to create measurable impact through art. Whether you’re a donor, advisor, or nonprofit leader, you’ll gain insight into how cinema can be a tool for advocacy, education, and legacy-building. Resources & Links Learn more about Tano Rising Film: TanoRising.Film Connect with Rosser Goodman on LinkedIn Discover the DAF Giving Summit: DAF Giving Summit

What happens when a piece of family history rewrites everything you thought you knew about yourself—and your responsibility to others? In this powerful episode of Money to Give, host Rick Peck speaks with Hilary Giovale, a philanthropist and author of Becoming a Good Relative: Calling White Settlers toward Truth, Healing, and Repair , whose journey began with an unexpected discovery in her family’s genealogy. That discovery—a legacy built on stolen Indigenous land and the labor of enslaved people—sparked years of spiritual reckoning, historical research, and deep relationship-building with affected communities. Hilary shares how confronting her ancestors’ role in American capitalism led her to embrace “reparative philanthropy,” a practice rooted in humility, trust, and a commitment to address the ongoing harms of the past. Together, Rick and Hilary explore: The connection between slavery, land dispossession, and the foundations of American wealth. The limitations of traditional, institutional philanthropy—and why trust-based approaches matter. The concept of “interpersonal philanthropy” and the many ways people can give beyond money. How to start a personal reparations plan, with or without financial wealth. Spiritual practices that ground reparative giving in relationship, reciprocity, and healing. This episode challenges listeners to think differently about wealth, generosity, and our shared history—and to consider what meaningful repair might look like in their own lives. Resources Mentioned in Episode: Links to order from Indie Booksellers Guide to Making a Personal Reparations Plan The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism, by Edward E. Baptist Decolonizing Wealth: Indigenous Wisdom to Heal Divides and Restore Balance, by Edgar Villanueva 100% of book proceeds go to Jubilee Justice and Decolonizing Wealth Project

Nonprofit policy experts Sara Barba and Ali Bedford unpack one of the most consequential tax bills for philanthropy in recent years. From potential threats to major wins, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how tax legislation affects donors, nonprofits, and the entire charitable sector. With clarity and candor, Sara and Ali explain what was cut from the final bill (and why), the risks that almost made it through, and how advocacy played a crucial role in protecting nonprofit interests. Rick brings thoughtful curiosity to the conversation, guiding listeners through the complexities of policy, tax incentives, and charitable giving in a time of economic and political tension.