Pillar 3 Podcast

Philip Deng
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  • Non-Profit

AI is reshaping the economy faster than anyone predicted. While experts debate what might happen, communities need to know what they can do right now. I'm Philip Deng, and I've spent the last year writing a book about AI safety through economic transformation. The conclusion? The biggest threat isn't sci-fi superintelligence—it's pattern recognition systems deployed by profit-maximizing companies that will replace human work at exponential speed. But here's what everyone's missing: The nonprofit sector has already evolved the organizational technology communities need to thrive in an AI-transformed world. On Pillar 3 Podcast, I break down the latest AI developments through an economic lens, expose the gaps in mainstream "solutions," and showcase the community-driven alternatives that can actually scale at the speed of change. Ready to build the third pillar of the economy? Here's your weekly intelligence brief—I track nonprofit innovations and community transformation strategies you won't find anywhere else. Find on my pillar 3 Substack. https://philipdeng.substack.com

Episodes

  1. 10/31/2025

    Consent vs. Convenience: The GoFundMe Controversy w/ Aaron Miller

    Keywords business ethics, GoFundMe, nonprofit, crowdfunding, ethical decision-making, technology, philanthropy, AI, transparency, leadership Summary In this conversation, Philip Deng and Polly Cannella engage with Aaron Miller, a business ethicist, to discuss the recent GoFundMe controversy and its implications for nonprofit organizations. They explore the ethical dimensions of GoFundMe's business model, the discoverability of nonprofits, and the challenges of scaling philanthropy through technology. The discussion also delves into the conflict between profit motives and nonprofit missions, the importance of leadership in ethical decision-making, and the role of transparency in business ethics. Additionally, they touch on the impact of AI on the nonprofit sector and the potential for creating ethical tech solutions that prioritize values over profit. Takeaways GoFundMe's actions raised ethical concerns about consent and autonomy.The business model of GoFundMe prioritizes profit over nonprofit needs.Discoverability can be a double-edged sword for nonprofits.Nonprofits often face a ceiling on total donations, limiting growth.Scaling philanthropy through technology presents unique challenges.Leadership plays a crucial role in maintaining ethical standards.Transparency is essential for accountability in business practices.AI can be a tool for good if used ethically.The nonprofit sector must adapt to technological advancements responsibly.Creating ethical tech solutions can empower nonprofits. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Business Ethics and GoFundMe Controversy 02:42 GoFundMe's Business Model and Ethical Implications 05:42 Discoverability vs. Nonprofit Autonomy 08:21 The Economics of Nonprofit Fundraising 11:11 Scaling Philanthropy and Technology's Role 13:57 The Conflict of Profit and Nonprofit Missions 16:41 Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making 19:21 The Role of Transparency in Business Ethics 22:20 AI's Impact on Nonprofits and Ethical Considerations 24:56 Building Ethical Tech Solutions 27:28 The Future of Nonprofits in a Tech-Driven World

    1h 16m

  2. 10/24/2025

    Tristan Harris, Jon Stewart & the AI Incentive Problem (w/ Polly Cannella)

    Keywords humane technology, AI ethics, user experience, job displacement, AI regulation, technology and society, creative economy, nonprofit innovation, AI and religion, future of work Summary In this conversation, Philip Deng and guest host Polly Cannella explore the implications of humane technology, the divergence between user experience and human experience, and the rapid development of AI. They discuss the ethical concerns surrounding AI, its potential impact on jobs, and the intersection of AI and religion. The conversation emphasizes the need for policy change and regulation to ensure a responsible approach to AI's integration into society, while also highlighting the importance of fostering creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing job landscape. Takeaways The conversation highlights the importance of humane technology in today's digital landscape.User experience often diverges from human experience, leading to negative emotional outcomes.AI's rapid development poses significant ethical concerns and potential job displacement.The intersection of AI and religion raises questions about its societal impact.Nonprofits could play a crucial role in an AI-driven economy by fostering creativity and innovation.Policy change is necessary to regulate AI and protect society from its potential harms.The need for a collective understanding of AI's implications is paramount.AI's development should prioritize human well-being over profit.The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparing for job displacement due to AI.Creativity and innovation should be encouraged in the face of technological advancement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Host Introduction 02:58 Exploring Humane Technology and Its Implications 05:41 User Experience vs. Human Experience in Technology 08:11 The Rise of AI and Its Potential Impact 11:25 The Alarmist Perspective on AI Job Replacement 14:19 AI's Role in Automating Human Labor 17:14 The Ethical Concerns of AI and Data Ownership 20:04 The Physical World and AI Integration 23:09 The Future of AI and Its Societal Impact 25:30 AI, Religion, and the Concept of a Digital God 28:29 The Economic Implications of AI Development 31:17 Competition in AI and the Future Landscape 37:24 The Race for AI Dominance 38:18 The Moral Dilemma of AI Stewardship 39:46 AI's Impact on Human Interaction 41:25 The Psychological Risks of AI Companionship 43:36 The Distinction Between Building and Growing AI 45:41 AI's Self-Preservation Instincts 49:16 The Incentives Behind AI Development 51:35 The Nuances of AI's Value and Risks 54:43 The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World 58:40 The Call for Responsible AI Regulation 01:02:03 The Role of Nonprofits in an AI Economy

    1h 16m

  3. 09/19/2025

    Vu Le Compiled a Decade of Rants Into One Essential Nonprofit Playbook

    Summary In this episode of the Pillar 3 podcast, host Philip Deng speaks with Vu Le, a prominent voice in the nonprofit sector, about the challenges and joys of nonprofit work. They discuss the importance of humor and community in navigating the complexities of nonprofit funding, the undervaluation of nonprofits, and the need for imaginative leadership. Vu shares insights from his blog, NonprofitAF, and his new book, emphasizing the necessity of addressing systemic issues within the sector while fostering a culture of joy and accountability. The conversation also touches on current events, the rise of fascism, and the role of nonprofits in creating a better world. Takeaways Chocolate and Netflix is Vu's main coping mechanism.Grounding joy and community is essential in challenging times.Overhead costs in nonprofits are necessary for sustainability.Nonprofits are often undervalued and underappreciated in society.Restoring imagination is crucial for effective nonprofit work.Crappy funding practices need to be called out for accountability.Nonprofits should uplift humanity, not just fill gaps left by others.The future of nonprofit leadership may involve more collaborative structures.Community responses to crises can lead to innovative solutions.The nonprofit sector has valuable lessons for the broader economy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 03:15 The Importance of Joy and Community 05:59 NonprofitAF.com: A Platform for Change 08:46 Challenging Misconceptions in Nonprofit Work 11:21 The Value of Nonprofits in Society 14:31 Imagination and the Nonprofit Sector 17:06 The Overton Window and Progressive Movements 19:57 Horsemen of Nonprofit Ineffectiveness 25:22 The Threat of White Moderation 30:38 Reimagining Leadership in Nonprofits 35:08 Confronting the Rise of Fascism 41:40 Imagining a New Nonprofit Sector 46:52 Engaging with the Community and the Book Launch Links Vu's blog, NonprofitAF: https://nonprofitAF.comVu's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nonprofitaf/Vu's Book: https://nonprofitaf.com/book/Elliot Bay Book Co.: https://www.elliottbaybook.com/item/vplZSw-KNYoHDc98efGisQBookstore dot org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/reimagining-nonprofits-and-philanthropy-unlocking-the-full-potential-of-a-vital-and-complex-sector-vu-le/d464f1bdfe767d91?ean=9781394313129&next=t

    53 min

  4. 09/06/2025

    The Nonprofit FRAUD Playbook

    Philip Deng breaks down the five-stage institutional takedown playbook being deployed against nonprofits—and why Silicon Valley's "fraud" obsession reveals a deeper threat to mission-driven organizations. What You'll Learn: The systematic method used to destroy public trust in institutionsHow Y Combinator's President exemplifies Silicon Valley's blind spots about homelessnessWhy "trust-based philanthropy" is becoming weaponized as "fraud"The real agenda behind surveillance capitalism disguised as crime preventionHow to prepare your nonprofit for incoming attacksKey Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction: The F-Word Problem 3:45 - Stage 1: Exploiting Information Fragmentation 8:20 - Stage 2: Cultural Incomprehension 15:30 - Stage 3: Weaponizing Accountability 22:10 - Stage 4: Resource Starvation (DOGE Example) 28:45 - Stage 5: For-Profit "Solutions" (Surveillance State) 35:20 - Real-World Examples: YC's Garry Tan 42:15 - What Nonprofits Can Do Now Philip Deng is Co-founder & CEO of Grantable, author of "The Future Is Not For Profit," and host of Pillar 3 Podcast. He combines 15+ years of nonprofit leadership with hands-on AI development experience to analyze economic transformation. Subscribe for weekly analysis on: AI's impact on nonprofit organizationsCommunity-driven economic alternativesThree-pillar economy visionInstitutional change strategies Connect with Philip: Newsletter: https://philipdeng.substack.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-deng/ #NonprofitSector #AI #CommunityOrganizing #EconomicTransformation #YCombinator #SiliconValley #TrustBasedPhilanthropy #PillarThree

    1 hr

  5. 08/26/2025

    The X Factor: A San Diego Baker's Answer to AI Anxiety

    Summary In this episode of the Pillar 3 podcast, Philip Deng explores the implications of AI on human purpose and well-being. He addresses a reader's concerns about the future of work and the role of money in a post-AI economy. Through various examples, he discusses the divergence between profit motives and human well-being, particularly in sectors like food, housing, and healthcare. Philip advocates for a shift towards purpose-driven business models that prioritize quality and community over profit maximization, envisioning a future where entrepreneurship thrives alongside a robust nonprofit sector. Takeaways The loss of purpose in an AI economy is not inevitable.Profit motives often conflict with human well-being.AI can enhance quality of life if used purposefully.Housing has become a profit extraction vehicle rather than a basic need.Healthcare costs have skyrocketed due to profit optimization.Big tech's profit-driven models can harm societal well-being.Purpose-driven businesses can thrive in a capitalist economy.Money should serve a mission, not dictate it.We need to envision a future with more purpose-driven entrepreneurs.The future of work will require a shift in how we view profit and purpose. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Note 01:40 The Role of Purpose in the AI Economy 02:34 The Problematic 'X' Shape 04:20 Profit vs. Human Well-Being: The X Shape 09:05 Housing and Healthcare: The Divergence of Profit 11:11 Profitized Healthcare 14:37 The Impact of Big Tech on Human Well-Being 16:46 A New Model: The O Shape of Purpose 19:53 Wayfarer Bakery: A Case Study in Purpose-Driven Business 23:41 The Future of Entrepreneurship and Nonprofits 28:44 Conclusion: Choosing a Different Shape for the Future

    32 min

  6. 08/26/2025

    $430 Billion in Cuts: How America is Privatizing Human Purpose

    Summary In this episode of the Pillar 3 podcast, host Philip Deng discusses the significant impact of federal budget cuts on the nonprofit sector, highlighting the loss of funding for critical programs and services. He explores the consequences of these cuts, including the elimination of AmeriCorps positions, mental health services, and environmental justice initiatives. Deng emphasizes the shift towards for-profit alternatives and the implications for community support and advocacy. He concludes by reflecting on the importance of purpose-driven organizations and the need for human choice in addressing societal issues. Takeaways $430 billion in federal funding is at risk due to budget cuts. 32,000 AmeriCorps members have lost their positions. Cuts to mental health services total $12 billion. 23,000 nonprofit jobs have been eliminated as a result of funding cuts. National CASA, which supports youth in the justice system, faces $49 million in cuts. Environmental justice grants have been significantly reduced, impacting at-risk communities. The transition to for-profit alternatives raises concerns about accountability and community focus. The nonprofit sector is being replaced by extractive for-profit models. The importance of purpose-driven organizations is emphasized in addressing community needs. Choice is being eliminated in favor of profit-driven motives. Chapters 00:00 The State of Nonprofits and Federal Budget Cuts 04:14 These Budget Cuts Aren't Random 04:57 The Real Impact of Nonprofit Sector Budget Cuts 15:50 The Shift from Nonprofit to For-Profit Services 28:56 The Importance of Purpose Over Profit

    32 min

  7. 08/26/2025

    So... What's the plan?

    Summary In this episode, Philip Deng discusses the urgent implications of artificial intelligence on the job market and the economy. He reflects on his journey of writing a book and the insights gained about AI's rapid advancement and its potential to displace jobs. Deng critiques existing solutions proposed by political figures and emphasizes the need for a new approach, which he terms the 'purpose sector,' to address the challenges posed by AI and create meaningful employment opportunities. Takeaways Philip Deng introduces the new podcast name, Pillar Three. He expresses concern about AI's impact on job displacement. Deng highlights the urgency of addressing AI's rapid advancement. He critiques the lack of effective plans from policymakers regarding AI. Deng discusses the difference between past technological disruptions and the current AI landscape. He emphasizes the need for a third pillar in the economy focused on purpose. Deng questions the effectiveness of traditional labor movement solutions in the age of AI. He suggests that nonprofits can play a crucial role in creating human value. Deng encourages listeners to think about their jobs in terms of purpose over profit. He invites feedback on how local businesses could operate more like mission-driven nonprofits. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pillar Three 02:56 The Urgency of AI and Job Displacement 08:51 Lack of a Clear Plan for AI Disruption 32:41 Introducing the Purpose Sector

    38 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

AI is reshaping the economy faster than anyone predicted. While experts debate what might happen, communities need to know what they can do right now. I'm Philip Deng, and I've spent the last year writing a book about AI safety through economic transformation. The conclusion? The biggest threat isn't sci-fi superintelligence—it's pattern recognition systems deployed by profit-maximizing companies that will replace human work at exponential speed. But here's what everyone's missing: The nonprofit sector has already evolved the organizational technology communities need to thrive in an AI-transformed world. On Pillar 3 Podcast, I break down the latest AI developments through an economic lens, expose the gaps in mainstream "solutions," and showcase the community-driven alternatives that can actually scale at the speed of change. Ready to build the third pillar of the economy? Here's your weekly intelligence brief—I track nonprofit innovations and community transformation strategies you won't find anywhere else. Find on my pillar 3 Substack. https://philipdeng.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Philip Deng
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Philip Deng
  • Show Website
    Pillar 3 Podcast