https://cohostpodcasting.com <![CDATA[Speaking of Purpose]]> en a94d69c9-dc0a-485f-981f-1ecbb3d96c85 Thu, 20 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0400 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:34:38 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose <![CDATA[Speaking of Purpose]]> https://files.cohostpodcasting.com/quill-file-prod/84aafd0f-5b6e-4096-8e48-0db048512639/shows/a94d69c9-dc0a-485f-981f-1ecbb3d96c85/cover-art/original_fe68d504d59a6de01b25ce0196b869b5.png https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose episodic false https://feeds.cohostpodcasting.com/QibY0ONY benevityspeakingofpurpose@gmail.com <![CDATA[ Minneapolis Responds: Corporate Action in Times of Crisis]]> In this special episode of Speaking of Purpose, Sona Khosla, Chief Impact Officer at Benevity, is joined by Andrea Wood, President and CEO of the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, for a conversation on corporate leadership during moments of crisis.


Drawing from her experience living in Minneapolis, Andrea shares what it was like to witness her community navigate a period of unrest and uncertainty. She reflects on the role of grassroots movements, the power of mutual aid and how individuals and organizations mobilized to support those most affected.


Together, they explore the gap between corporate statements and meaningful action, how leaders react in high-pressure moments and how companies can better support their employees and communities when it matters most.


Links to note:

https://accp.org/


]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 35:55 In this special episode of Speaking of Purpose, Sona Khosla, Chief Impact Officer at Benevity, is joined by Andrea Wood, President and CEO of the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, for a conversation on corporate leadership during moments of crisis.


Drawing from her experience living in Minneapolis, Andrea shares what it was like to witness her community navigate a period of unrest and uncertainty. She reflects on the role of grassroots movements, the power of mutual aid and how individuals and organizations mobilized to support those most affected.


Together, they explore the gap between corporate statements and meaningful action, how leaders react in high-pressure moments and how companies can better support their employees and communities when it matters most.


Links to note:

https://accp.org/


]]> In this special episode of Speaking of Purpose, Sona Khosla, Chief Impact Officer at Benevity, is joined by Andrea Wood, President and CEO of the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, for a conversation on corporate leadership during moments of crisis.


Drawing from her experience living in Minneapolis, Andrea shares what it was like to witness her community navigate a period of unrest and uncertainty. She reflects on the role of grassroots movements, the power of mutual aid and how individuals and organizations mobilized to support those most affected.


Together, they explore the gap between corporate statements and meaningful action, how leaders react in high-pressure moments and how companies can better support their employees and communities when it matters most.


Links to note:

https://accp.org/


]]> false full <![CDATA[Force of Nature: Building a Sustainable Business of the Future with L’OREAL Canada]]> A company's values are what truly drive its value. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, Maya Colombani, Chief Sustainability, Human Rights and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at L’ORÉAL Canada, shares how her company’s sustainability strategy drives innovation, talent development and financial growth. From integrating sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion and social impact into every part of the business to building partnerships with Indigenous communities, Maya shows what it looks like to be a force for good and a global market mover.


]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 48:25 A company's values are what truly drive its value. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, Maya Colombani, Chief Sustainability, Human Rights and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at L’ORÉAL Canada, shares how her company’s sustainability strategy drives innovation, talent development and financial growth. From integrating sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion and social impact into every part of the business to building partnerships with Indigenous communities, Maya shows what it looks like to be a force for good and a global market mover.


]]> A company's values are what truly drive its value. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, Maya Colombani, Chief Sustainability, Human Rights and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at L’ORÉAL Canada, shares how her company’s sustainability strategy drives innovation, talent development and financial growth. From integrating sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion and social impact into every part of the business to building partnerships with Indigenous communities, Maya shows what it looks like to be a force for good and a global market mover.


]]> false full 13 4 <![CDATA[Purpose, Profit, and Public Pressure]]> Shareholder, consumer and employee activism are top of mind for CEOs. Some companies are bending under pressure, while others are doubling down. So who really holds the power?


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we sit down with Andrew Jones of the Conference Board to explore how today’s most resilient companies are embracing their communities and harnessing stakeholder influence to better navigate risk, build brand trust, and align values with long-term success. Plus, we look at the latest data on activism to what it means for the future of business.

]]> Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 38:57 Shareholder, consumer and employee activism are top of mind for CEOs. Some companies are bending under pressure, while others are doubling down. So who really holds the power?


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we sit down with Andrew Jones of the Conference Board to explore how today’s most resilient companies are embracing their communities and harnessing stakeholder influence to better navigate risk, build brand trust, and align values with long-term success. Plus, we look at the latest data on activism to what it means for the future of business.

]]> Shareholder, consumer and employee activism are top of mind for CEOs. Some companies are bending under pressure, while others are doubling down. So who really holds the power?


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we sit down with Andrew Jones of the Conference Board to explore how today’s most resilient companies are embracing their communities and harnessing stakeholder influence to better navigate risk, build brand trust, and align values with long-term success. Plus, we look at the latest data on activism to what it means for the future of business.

]]> false full 4 <![CDATA[The Truth about Trust-Based Philanthropy]]> Trust-based philanthropy has been a growing movement for the past five years, but it hasn’t come without its fair share of naysayers and skeptics. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we talk to Shaady Salehi, Co-Founder & Executive Director at the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project as the initiative enters its next phase of growth. In this conversation, we tackle the myths, the benefits, the opportunities and what it takes to forge nonprofit partnerships that in fact enable funders to realize their investment goals, if they are willing to practice a bit of flexibility and… trust! 


Show Notes:

Learn more about Trust-based philanthropy →  https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/


Dive into Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025 


Learn more about Unite in Advance → https://nonprofitquarterly.org/unite-in-advance-philanthropy-coalition-launches-solidarity-campaign/ 


Learn more about Meet the Moment → https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/meet-the-moment 


]]> Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 49:59 Trust-based philanthropy has been a growing movement for the past five years, but it hasn’t come without its fair share of naysayers and skeptics. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we talk to Shaady Salehi, Co-Founder & Executive Director at the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project as the initiative enters its next phase of growth. In this conversation, we tackle the myths, the benefits, the opportunities and what it takes to forge nonprofit partnerships that in fact enable funders to realize their investment goals, if they are willing to practice a bit of flexibility and… trust! 


Show Notes:

Learn more about Trust-based philanthropy →  https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/


Dive into Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025 


Learn more about Unite in Advance → https://nonprofitquarterly.org/unite-in-advance-philanthropy-coalition-launches-solidarity-campaign/ 


Learn more about Meet the Moment → https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/meet-the-moment 


]]> Trust-based philanthropy has been a growing movement for the past five years, but it hasn’t come without its fair share of naysayers and skeptics. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we talk to Shaady Salehi, Co-Founder & Executive Director at the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project as the initiative enters its next phase of growth. In this conversation, we tackle the myths, the benefits, the opportunities and what it takes to forge nonprofit partnerships that in fact enable funders to realize their investment goals, if they are willing to practice a bit of flexibility and… trust! 


Show Notes:

Learn more about Trust-based philanthropy →  https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/


Dive into Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025 


Learn more about Unite in Advance → https://nonprofitquarterly.org/unite-in-advance-philanthropy-coalition-launches-solidarity-campaign/ 


Learn more about Meet the Moment → https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/meet-the-moment 


]]> false full 11 4 <![CDATA[Meet the Benevity CEO Shaping the Future of Corporate Purpose]]> In this rare episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, host Sona Khosla sits down with the new CEO of Benevity, Soraya Alexander. They talk about everything from building community and connection through giving, obsessing about unlocking more generosity, the role of technology and the opportunity for AI to make us intentional about being human, and the need to protect corporate purpose in this moment. In this joy-filled, laughter-infused conversation, you’ll delight in getting to know Soraya Alexander–the woman behind the title.


Show Notes:

Learn more about Benevity’s CEO announcement → https://benevity.com/press-releases/benevity-names-soraya-alexander-chief-executive-officer 

]]> Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 45:17 In this rare episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, host Sona Khosla sits down with the new CEO of Benevity, Soraya Alexander. They talk about everything from building community and connection through giving, obsessing about unlocking more generosity, the role of technology and the opportunity for AI to make us intentional about being human, and the need to protect corporate purpose in this moment. In this joy-filled, laughter-infused conversation, you’ll delight in getting to know Soraya Alexander–the woman behind the title.


Show Notes:

Learn more about Benevity’s CEO announcement → https://benevity.com/press-releases/benevity-names-soraya-alexander-chief-executive-officer 

]]> In this rare episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, host Sona Khosla sits down with the new CEO of Benevity, Soraya Alexander. They talk about everything from building community and connection through giving, obsessing about unlocking more generosity, the role of technology and the opportunity for AI to make us intentional about being human, and the need to protect corporate purpose in this moment. In this joy-filled, laughter-infused conversation, you’ll delight in getting to know Soraya Alexander–the woman behind the title.


Show Notes:

Learn more about Benevity’s CEO announcement → https://benevity.com/press-releases/benevity-names-soraya-alexander-chief-executive-officer 

]]> false full 10 <![CDATA[The Fork in the Road for Nonprofit Funding]]> Nonprofits are facing a turning point. As government funding shifts and donor behavior evolves, the sector stands at a fork in the road. Forced to rethink how it stays financially healthy and mission-focused.


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we’ll unpack the growing strain on nonprofit budgets, the risks of relying solely on private philanthropy, and the rise of community-led giving models. We explore the warning signs, the opportunities, and what it will take to build lasting resilience in a changing funding landscape.


Show Notes:

Explore Charity Navigator → https://www.charitynavigator.org

Support GlobalGiving → https://www.globalgiving.org

Do Good Research Study → https://dogood.umd.edu/news/new-research-reveals-linkages-between-volunteerism-social-connections-0

Read Civic Participation Study → https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1475-6765.12586

USAID Stop-Work Order → https://www.usaidstopwork.com/

Visit ACLU → https://www.aclu.org

Learn About PEPFAR → https://www.state.gov/pepfar

Check Malaria Data → https://malariaatlas.org/news/new-malaria-data-warns-millions-at-risk/

Browse NOAA Data → https://www.noaa.gov

See what we’ll lose without Nonprofits → https://fortune.com/2025/09/07/nonprofits-youll-miss-them-when-theyre-gone/

]]> Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 45:46 Nonprofits are facing a turning point. As government funding shifts and donor behavior evolves, the sector stands at a fork in the road. Forced to rethink how it stays financially healthy and mission-focused.


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we’ll unpack the growing strain on nonprofit budgets, the risks of relying solely on private philanthropy, and the rise of community-led giving models. We explore the warning signs, the opportunities, and what it will take to build lasting resilience in a changing funding landscape.


Show Notes:

Explore Charity Navigator → https://www.charitynavigator.org

Support GlobalGiving → https://www.globalgiving.org

Do Good Research Study → https://dogood.umd.edu/news/new-research-reveals-linkages-between-volunteerism-social-connections-0

Read Civic Participation Study → https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1475-6765.12586

USAID Stop-Work Order → https://www.usaidstopwork.com/

Visit ACLU → https://www.aclu.org

Learn About PEPFAR → https://www.state.gov/pepfar

Check Malaria Data → https://malariaatlas.org/news/new-malaria-data-warns-millions-at-risk/

Browse NOAA Data → https://www.noaa.gov

See what we’ll lose without Nonprofits → https://fortune.com/2025/09/07/nonprofits-youll-miss-them-when-theyre-gone/

]]> Nonprofits are facing a turning point. As government funding shifts and donor behavior evolves, the sector stands at a fork in the road. Forced to rethink how it stays financially healthy and mission-focused.


In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, we’ll unpack the growing strain on nonprofit budgets, the risks of relying solely on private philanthropy, and the rise of community-led giving models. We explore the warning signs, the opportunities, and what it will take to build lasting resilience in a changing funding landscape.


Show Notes:

Explore Charity Navigator → https://www.charitynavigator.org

Support GlobalGiving → https://www.globalgiving.org

Do Good Research Study → https://dogood.umd.edu/news/new-research-reveals-linkages-between-volunteerism-social-connections-0

Read Civic Participation Study → https://ejpr.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1475-6765.12586

USAID Stop-Work Order → https://www.usaidstopwork.com/

Visit ACLU → https://www.aclu.org

Learn About PEPFAR → https://www.state.gov/pepfar

Check Malaria Data → https://malariaatlas.org/news/new-malaria-data-warns-millions-at-risk/

Browse NOAA Data → https://www.noaa.gov

See what we’ll lose without Nonprofits → https://fortune.com/2025/09/07/nonprofits-youll-miss-them-when-theyre-gone/

]]> false full 6 <![CDATA[Cisco’s Bold Approach to Setting Impact Goals]]> The way you think about goal-setting in business is about to change. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, we're joined by Charu Adesnik, Executive Director of Cisco Foundation and Director of Social Impact and Innovation for Cisco Systems. We deconstruct the company’s audacious goal to positively impact one billion lives within 10 years, which they exceeded ahead of schedule.Tune in to hear Charu and Sona talk about executive commitment, using business to drive impact, dealing with the unexpected, having the grace to test, and learn and what it means to authentically scale a  vision to “power an inclusive future for all.”


Show Notes:

Cisco Networking Academy → https://www.netacad.com/

Cisco’s 40years of Impact → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html

Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose Report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025

Learn more about Cisco's 1 billion lives initiative → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/social-impact/one-billion-lives.html


netacad.comnetacad.com

Cisco Networking Academy: Learn Cybersecurity, Python & More

Cisco Networking Academy is a skills-to-jobs program shaping the future workforce. Since 1997, we have impacted over 20 million learners in 190 countries. 

https://www.netacad.com/


CiscoCisco

Cisco Purpose - Power an Inclusive Future for All

Learn how Cisco's Purpose aims to combine our technology, our people, and our broader ecosystem to power an inclusive future for all. 

https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html


benevity.com

State of Corporate Purpose 2025

The corporate purpose landscape is in a state of significant flux, with nearly two-thirds of companies redefining their purpose strategy in the past year.

CiscoCisco

Positively Impacting 1 Billion Lives

Cisco changed over one billion lives for the better through social impact investments with 100+ global non-profit partners, and Cisco Networking Academy programs.


]]> Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 44:54 The way you think about goal-setting in business is about to change. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, we're joined by Charu Adesnik, Executive Director of Cisco Foundation and Director of Social Impact and Innovation for Cisco Systems. We deconstruct the company’s audacious goal to positively impact one billion lives within 10 years, which they exceeded ahead of schedule.Tune in to hear Charu and Sona talk about executive commitment, using business to drive impact, dealing with the unexpected, having the grace to test, and learn and what it means to authentically scale a  vision to “power an inclusive future for all.”


Show Notes:

Cisco Networking Academy → https://www.netacad.com/

Cisco’s 40years of Impact → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html

Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose Report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025

Learn more about Cisco's 1 billion lives initiative → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/social-impact/one-billion-lives.html


netacad.comnetacad.com

Cisco Networking Academy: Learn Cybersecurity, Python & More

Cisco Networking Academy is a skills-to-jobs program shaping the future workforce. Since 1997, we have impacted over 20 million learners in 190 countries. 

https://www.netacad.com/


CiscoCisco

Cisco Purpose - Power an Inclusive Future for All

Learn how Cisco's Purpose aims to combine our technology, our people, and our broader ecosystem to power an inclusive future for all. 

https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html


benevity.com

State of Corporate Purpose 2025

The corporate purpose landscape is in a state of significant flux, with nearly two-thirds of companies redefining their purpose strategy in the past year.

CiscoCisco

Positively Impacting 1 Billion Lives

Cisco changed over one billion lives for the better through social impact investments with 100+ global non-profit partners, and Cisco Networking Academy programs.


]]> The way you think about goal-setting in business is about to change. In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, we're joined by Charu Adesnik, Executive Director of Cisco Foundation and Director of Social Impact and Innovation for Cisco Systems. We deconstruct the company’s audacious goal to positively impact one billion lives within 10 years, which they exceeded ahead of schedule.Tune in to hear Charu and Sona talk about executive commitment, using business to drive impact, dealing with the unexpected, having the grace to test, and learn and what it means to authentically scale a  vision to “power an inclusive future for all.”


Show Notes:

Cisco Networking Academy → https://www.netacad.com/

Cisco’s 40years of Impact → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html

Benevity’s State of Corporate Purpose Report → https://benevity.com/state-of-corporate-purpose-2025

Learn more about Cisco's 1 billion lives initiative → https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/social-impact/one-billion-lives.html


netacad.comnetacad.com

Cisco Networking Academy: Learn Cybersecurity, Python & More

Cisco Networking Academy is a skills-to-jobs program shaping the future workforce. Since 1997, we have impacted over 20 million learners in 190 countries. 

https://www.netacad.com/


CiscoCisco

Cisco Purpose - Power an Inclusive Future for All

Learn how Cisco's Purpose aims to combine our technology, our people, and our broader ecosystem to power an inclusive future for all. 

https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/purpose/index.html


benevity.com

State of Corporate Purpose 2025

The corporate purpose landscape is in a state of significant flux, with nearly two-thirds of companies redefining their purpose strategy in the past year.

CiscoCisco

Positively Impacting 1 Billion Lives

Cisco changed over one billion lives for the better through social impact investments with 100+ global non-profit partners, and Cisco Networking Academy programs.


]]> false full 8 4 <![CDATA[Patagonia's Former CEO Gives a Leadership Masterclass]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia, joined us on stage at Benevity Live! for a leadership masterclass. Rose shares how bold, values-driven decisions and business strategy can coexist—and succeed. 


Hear how this iconic CEO made decisions under pressure, how courageous leadership starts with small steps, and how nature is a perfect metaphor for resiliency.


Learn more about the Enacting Purpose Initiative → enactingpurpose.org 


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!





]]> Wed, 08 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 29:41 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia, joined us on stage at Benevity Live! for a leadership masterclass. Rose shares how bold, values-driven decisions and business strategy can coexist—and succeed. 


Hear how this iconic CEO made decisions under pressure, how courageous leadership starts with small steps, and how nature is a perfect metaphor for resiliency.


Learn more about the Enacting Purpose Initiative → enactingpurpose.org 


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!





]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose by Benevity, Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia, joined us on stage at Benevity Live! for a leadership masterclass. Rose shares how bold, values-driven decisions and business strategy can coexist—and succeed. 


Hear how this iconic CEO made decisions under pressure, how courageous leadership starts with small steps, and how nature is a perfect metaphor for resiliency.


Learn more about the Enacting Purpose Initiative → enactingpurpose.org 


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!





]]> false full 7 4 <![CDATA[Welcome to Speaking of Purpose]]> What if purpose wasn’t just a buzzword, but the key to resilience in business, life, and leadership?


Speaking of Purpose is where we sit with the big questions, challenge the old narratives, and uncover the deeper forces shaping the way we work and lead. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring changemakers—unpacking insights that matter, breaking down the research, and sharing real stories of impact.



If you believe in work that makes a difference, in leadership that lasts, and in businesses that walk the talk, this is your space.


]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 1:15 What if purpose wasn’t just a buzzword, but the key to resilience in business, life, and leadership?


Speaking of Purpose is where we sit with the big questions, challenge the old narratives, and uncover the deeper forces shaping the way we work and lead. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring changemakers—unpacking insights that matter, breaking down the research, and sharing real stories of impact.



If you believe in work that makes a difference, in leadership that lasts, and in businesses that walk the talk, this is your space.


]]> What if purpose wasn’t just a buzzword, but the key to resilience in business, life, and leadership?


Speaking of Purpose is where we sit with the big questions, challenge the old narratives, and uncover the deeper forces shaping the way we work and lead. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring changemakers—unpacking insights that matter, breaking down the research, and sharing real stories of impact.



If you believe in work that makes a difference, in leadership that lasts, and in businesses that walk the talk, this is your space.


]]> false trailer 4 <![CDATA[What Happens When You Talk to Someone You Disagree With?]]> In a time when division is drowning out connection, could the key to unity be… a simple conversation? In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Sandra Clark, CEO of StoryCorps, to explore the contact hypothesis — a psychology-backed idea showing how meaningful dialogue builds understanding across differences.


Sona and Sandra unpack how StoryCorps’ One Small Step program brings people together for open, non-political conversations that focus on human connection. From real-world stories of empathy to surprising research insights, this episode highlights the quiet power of listening to bridge divides and strengthen community.


Since this interview was recorded, StoryCorps has lost over $2M in federal funding. Support stories of discovery, connection and hope here → https://donate.storycorps.org/


Learn more about One Small Step → https://takeonesmallstep.org/


00:00 Corporate Role in Political Dialogue

05:57 Journalism vs. StoryCorps: A Reflection

07:03 Unseen Stories of Blended Heritage

12:02 Bridging Divides through StoryCorps

14:14 "Rising Violence and Lost Faith"

17:10 "Bridging Divides: Wayne and Alton"

20:25 "One Small Step: National Conversation Movement"

24:34 Navigating Business and Diversity Integration

27:05 Value-Driven Storytelling in ERGs

31:32 "Authenticity in Modern Leadership"

34:40 "Neuroscience of Storytelling and Listening"

36:43 Inspiring Business Listening Sessions


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 38:00 In a time when division is drowning out connection, could the key to unity be… a simple conversation? In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Sandra Clark, CEO of StoryCorps, to explore the contact hypothesis — a psychology-backed idea showing how meaningful dialogue builds understanding across differences.


Sona and Sandra unpack how StoryCorps’ One Small Step program brings people together for open, non-political conversations that focus on human connection. From real-world stories of empathy to surprising research insights, this episode highlights the quiet power of listening to bridge divides and strengthen community.


Since this interview was recorded, StoryCorps has lost over $2M in federal funding. Support stories of discovery, connection and hope here → https://donate.storycorps.org/


Learn more about One Small Step → https://takeonesmallstep.org/


00:00 Corporate Role in Political Dialogue

05:57 Journalism vs. StoryCorps: A Reflection

07:03 Unseen Stories of Blended Heritage

12:02 Bridging Divides through StoryCorps

14:14 "Rising Violence and Lost Faith"

17:10 "Bridging Divides: Wayne and Alton"

20:25 "One Small Step: National Conversation Movement"

24:34 Navigating Business and Diversity Integration

27:05 Value-Driven Storytelling in ERGs

31:32 "Authenticity in Modern Leadership"

34:40 "Neuroscience of Storytelling and Listening"

36:43 Inspiring Business Listening Sessions


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> In a time when division is drowning out connection, could the key to unity be… a simple conversation? In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Sandra Clark, CEO of StoryCorps, to explore the contact hypothesis — a psychology-backed idea showing how meaningful dialogue builds understanding across differences.


Sona and Sandra unpack how StoryCorps’ One Small Step program brings people together for open, non-political conversations that focus on human connection. From real-world stories of empathy to surprising research insights, this episode highlights the quiet power of listening to bridge divides and strengthen community.


Since this interview was recorded, StoryCorps has lost over $2M in federal funding. Support stories of discovery, connection and hope here → https://donate.storycorps.org/


Learn more about One Small Step → https://takeonesmallstep.org/


00:00 Corporate Role in Political Dialogue

05:57 Journalism vs. StoryCorps: A Reflection

07:03 Unseen Stories of Blended Heritage

12:02 Bridging Divides through StoryCorps

14:14 "Rising Violence and Lost Faith"

17:10 "Bridging Divides: Wayne and Alton"

20:25 "One Small Step: National Conversation Movement"

24:34 Navigating Business and Diversity Integration

27:05 Value-Driven Storytelling in ERGs

31:32 "Authenticity in Modern Leadership"

34:40 "Neuroscience of Storytelling and Listening"

36:43 Inspiring Business Listening Sessions


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> false full 6 3 <![CDATA[How Leadership Is Evolving in Purpose-Driven Business]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Carolyn Berkowitz, former President and CEO of ACCP (Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals), to unpack the shifting dynamics in corporate purpose that have accelerated beyond imagination in just the last few years. With more than three decades in the field, Carolyn reflects on how corporate social responsibility has evolved from CEO pet projects to a strategic business imperative, and what happens when that work gets caught in the political crossfire. Together, they explore how companies are adapting their language and approach to meet changing expectations, the cautious rebranding inside boardrooms and why today’s social impact leaders are under more pressure than ever. From crisis response playbooks to quiet legal reviews, this conversation offers a rare look inside the complex reality of corporate approaches to environment, social and governance.


This episode was recorded in 2024; some government policies have evolved since the time of the conversation.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


]]> Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 45:15 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Carolyn Berkowitz, former President and CEO of ACCP (Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals), to unpack the shifting dynamics in corporate purpose that have accelerated beyond imagination in just the last few years. With more than three decades in the field, Carolyn reflects on how corporate social responsibility has evolved from CEO pet projects to a strategic business imperative, and what happens when that work gets caught in the political crossfire. Together, they explore how companies are adapting their language and approach to meet changing expectations, the cautious rebranding inside boardrooms and why today’s social impact leaders are under more pressure than ever. From crisis response playbooks to quiet legal reviews, this conversation offers a rare look inside the complex reality of corporate approaches to environment, social and governance.


This episode was recorded in 2024; some government policies have evolved since the time of the conversation.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Carolyn Berkowitz, former President and CEO of ACCP (Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals), to unpack the shifting dynamics in corporate purpose that have accelerated beyond imagination in just the last few years. With more than three decades in the field, Carolyn reflects on how corporate social responsibility has evolved from CEO pet projects to a strategic business imperative, and what happens when that work gets caught in the political crossfire. Together, they explore how companies are adapting their language and approach to meet changing expectations, the cautious rebranding inside boardrooms and why today’s social impact leaders are under more pressure than ever. From crisis response playbooks to quiet legal reviews, this conversation offers a rare look inside the complex reality of corporate approaches to environment, social and governance.


This episode was recorded in 2024; some government policies have evolved since the time of the conversation.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


]]> false full 5 3 <![CDATA[How Vanguard is making real social change with the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation ]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with two remarkable changemakers: AJ Jordan, Head of Community Stewardship and President of the Vanguard Group Foundation, and Jenny Bogoni, Chief of Community Engagement and Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation.


Together, they explore how long-term, relationship-based partnerships can create sustained impact in communities and how Vanguard’s approach to funding goes far beyond traditional philanthropy. From investing in grassroots literacy programs to enabling system-level change, this episode uncovers what it really looks like when a corporation listens deeply, funds boldly, and redefines what real change means.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


Filmed live in the Vanguard Studio, watch this behind-the-scenes footage of this podcast recording.

]]> Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:37:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 50:05 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with two remarkable changemakers: AJ Jordan, Head of Community Stewardship and President of the Vanguard Group Foundation, and Jenny Bogoni, Chief of Community Engagement and Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation.


Together, they explore how long-term, relationship-based partnerships can create sustained impact in communities and how Vanguard’s approach to funding goes far beyond traditional philanthropy. From investing in grassroots literacy programs to enabling system-level change, this episode uncovers what it really looks like when a corporation listens deeply, funds boldly, and redefines what real change means.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


Filmed live in the Vanguard Studio, watch this behind-the-scenes footage of this podcast recording.

]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with two remarkable changemakers: AJ Jordan, Head of Community Stewardship and President of the Vanguard Group Foundation, and Jenny Bogoni, Chief of Community Engagement and Public Programs at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation.


Together, they explore how long-term, relationship-based partnerships can create sustained impact in communities and how Vanguard’s approach to funding goes far beyond traditional philanthropy. From investing in grassroots literacy programs to enabling system-level change, this episode uncovers what it really looks like when a corporation listens deeply, funds boldly, and redefines what real change means.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.


Filmed live in the Vanguard Studio, watch this behind-the-scenes footage of this podcast recording.

]]> false full 4 3 <![CDATA[Unpacking the DEI backlash with Joelle Emerson]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Joelle Emerson, CEO and co-founder of Paradigm, to unpack the hot topic of DEI. They explore what the charged acronym really means, who is driving the debate, what the data says about it, and how companies have shifted course from 2020's reckoning to today's retrenchment. And they look at practical ways that companies can adapt their strategies in a risky legal and political environment to embed fairness, driving performance, and maintaining brand trust.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> Wed, 09 Jul 2025 14:06:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 50:49 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Joelle Emerson, CEO and co-founder of Paradigm, to unpack the hot topic of DEI. They explore what the charged acronym really means, who is driving the debate, what the data says about it, and how companies have shifted course from 2020's reckoning to today's retrenchment. And they look at practical ways that companies can adapt their strategies in a risky legal and political environment to embed fairness, driving performance, and maintaining brand trust.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Joelle Emerson, CEO and co-founder of Paradigm, to unpack the hot topic of DEI. They explore what the charged acronym really means, who is driving the debate, what the data says about it, and how companies have shifted course from 2020's reckoning to today's retrenchment. And they look at practical ways that companies can adapt their strategies in a risky legal and political environment to embed fairness, driving performance, and maintaining brand trust.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> false full 3 3 <![CDATA[Live episode: Cisco's Brian Tippens on the power of purpose]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla speaks with Brian Tippens, Chief Social Impact and Inclusion Officer at Cisco, during Benevity Live! 2024, about the company’s $300 million commitment to social justice and what it looks like to lead with purpose inside a global tech giant. They explore how Cisco connects community impact to business value, how Brian's team developed a framework for responding to complex societal issues, and why social impact leadership today is as much about strategy as it is about empathy.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:05:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 22:14 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla speaks with Brian Tippens, Chief Social Impact and Inclusion Officer at Cisco, during Benevity Live! 2024, about the company’s $300 million commitment to social justice and what it looks like to lead with purpose inside a global tech giant. They explore how Cisco connects community impact to business value, how Brian's team developed a framework for responding to complex societal issues, and why social impact leadership today is as much about strategy as it is about empathy.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla speaks with Brian Tippens, Chief Social Impact and Inclusion Officer at Cisco, during Benevity Live! 2024, about the company’s $300 million commitment to social justice and what it looks like to lead with purpose inside a global tech giant. They explore how Cisco connects community impact to business value, how Brian's team developed a framework for responding to complex societal issues, and why social impact leadership today is as much about strategy as it is about empathy.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> false full 2 3 <![CDATA[Cracking impact measurement with Jason Saul, Impact Genome Registry]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Jason Saul, CEO of the Impact Genome Registry and Executive Director at the University of Chicago's Center for Impact Sciences. Together, they unpack the chaos behind how nonprofits measure success and reveal a bold new approach that could transform how billions in charitable giving gets allocated. From the hidden inefficiencies plaguing corporate philanthropy to the controversial idea that measurement might actually empower rather than punish nonprofits, this is a conversation that challenges everything you think you know about social impact.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> Wed, 18 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 49:00 In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Jason Saul, CEO of the Impact Genome Registry and Executive Director at the University of Chicago's Center for Impact Sciences. Together, they unpack the chaos behind how nonprofits measure success and reveal a bold new approach that could transform how billions in charitable giving gets allocated. From the hidden inefficiencies plaguing corporate philanthropy to the controversial idea that measurement might actually empower rather than punish nonprofits, this is a conversation that challenges everything you think you know about social impact.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Jason Saul, CEO of the Impact Genome Registry and Executive Director at the University of Chicago's Center for Impact Sciences. Together, they unpack the chaos behind how nonprofits measure success and reveal a bold new approach that could transform how billions in charitable giving gets allocated. From the hidden inefficiencies plaguing corporate philanthropy to the controversial idea that measurement might actually empower rather than punish nonprofits, this is a conversation that challenges everything you think you know about social impact.


🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!


📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.

]]> false full 1 3 <![CDATA[How Lush Became an Ally to Indigenous Peoples]]> Thu, 20 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 42:52 false full 4 2 <![CDATA[The Blind Spot In Philanthropy]]> Thu, 13 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 26:10 false full 3 2 <![CDATA[Why Some Indigenous Leaders Don’t Trust Corporations]]> Thu, 06 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 39:56 false full 2 2 <![CDATA[Truth Before Reconciliation]]> Thu, 29 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 35:11 false full 1 2 <![CDATA[Introducing Season 2 of Speaking of Purpose...]]> Welcome to Season 2 of Speaking of Purpose! Join host, Sona Khosla, as she gets curious about how we can do our part in driving change around the challenges Indigenous communities face across the world, and Indigenous ways of knowing. Tune in for a sneak peek of what’s to come this season as we share our learnings from speaking with four remarkable guests about exploring reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. wherever you listen to podcasts () Learn more about Speaking of Purpose or Benevity on our website (https://benevity.com/speakingofpurpose)

]]> Mon, 26 Sep 2022 17:06:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 4:57 Welcome to Season 2 of Speaking of Purpose! Join host, Sona Khosla, as she gets curious about how we can do our part in driving change around the challenges Indigenous communities face across the world, and Indigenous ways of knowing. Tune in for a sneak peek of what’s to come this season as we share our learnings from speaking with four remarkable guests about exploring reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. wherever you listen to podcasts () Learn more about Speaking of Purpose or Benevity on our website (https://benevity.com/speakingofpurpose)

]]> Welcome to Season 2 of Speaking of Purpose! Join host, Sona Khosla, as she gets curious about how we can do our part in driving change around the challenges Indigenous communities face across the world, and Indigenous ways of knowing. Tune in for a sneak peek of what’s to come this season as we share our learnings from speaking with four remarkable guests about exploring reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. wherever you listen to podcasts () Learn more about Speaking of Purpose or Benevity on our website (https://benevity.com/speakingofpurpose)

]]> false full 2 <![CDATA[Purpose-Driven Business: A Conversation About the Movement for Democratized Goodness]]> Thu, 14 Oct 2021 20:52:48 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 33:07 false full 10 1 <![CDATA[A Conversation with Anil Soni on the Need for Vaccine Equity]]> Thu, 30 Sep 2021 23:29:14 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 43:24 false full 9 1 <![CDATA[No Going Back: How Volunteering Has Changed Forever]]> Thu, 19 Aug 2021 21:54:29 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 21:27 false full 8 1 <![CDATA[Behind the Boardroom Door]]> Thu, 05 Aug 2021 19:52:46 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 24:38 false full 7 1 <![CDATA[Why Companies Should Get Ready to Get Canceled]]> Wed, 14 Jul 2021 20:20:05 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 16:02 false full 6 1 <![CDATA[Stakeholder Capitalism and the Future of Business]]> Wed, 30 Jun 2021 19:45:54 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 26:23 false full 5 1 <![CDATA[DEI&B – More Than Another Corporate Acronym]]> Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:30:28 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 24:02 false full 4 1 <![CDATA[Engaging Customers in Your Corporate Purpose]]> Tue, 18 May 2021 19:39:36 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 15:33 false full 3 1 <![CDATA[How to Sustain a Movement After the Moment Has Passed]]> Tue, 11 May 2021 04:24:32 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 18:35 false full 2 1 <![CDATA[Who Is Responsible for Corporate Purpose Within a Company?]]> Sun, 09 May 2021 18:00:00 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 17:24 false full 1 1 <![CDATA[Intro to Speaking of Purpose…]]> Mon, 03 May 2021 23:21:39 -0400 https://www.benevity.com/speakingofpurpose 3:28 false trailer 1