A Good Force – a GivingForce original series

Ejaz Rashid
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A Good Force. Where we spotlight moments that shaped the leaders behind enterprise CSR and ESG to turn purpose into measurable change. Hosted by Ejaz Rashid, Founder & CEO at GivingForce.

  1. 2d ago

    EP 24 - Richard Donovan (Experian)

    SummaryRichard Donovan shares his journey from being involved in the launch of a new bank to leading global social innovation at Experian, highlighting key projects, challenges, and insights into creating impactful social programmes. Keywordssocial innovation, corporate responsibility, financial inclusion, social impact, Experian, innovation culture, social programmes, debt management, youth employment, systemic change Key topicsJourney from the launch of Egg to leading social innovation at ExperianThe importance of being prepared and creative in crisis situationsTransferable skills from communications to social impactThe process of integrating culture during mergers and acquisitionsDesigning and testing social innovation programmes using research and AISuccess stories like the Brazil debt platform and work experience centresThe role of systemic thinking in social programme success and failure Sound bites"We realized we were way more successful than expected""Over indebtedness is a huge issue in Brazil""Using AI to build better customer journeys at speed" Guest linksRichard Donovan on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/richardadonovanExperian: https://www.experianplc.com Chapters00:00 Introduction and Richard Donovan's background01:12 Starting at Egg and the launch chaos02:02 Lessons from the Egg launch experience03:01 Transition from innovation to social impact04:11 Cultural integration during the Egg and Citi merger08:27 Focusing social innovation efforts at Experian11:30 Success and challenges in social programmes12:41 Brazil's debt platform and its impact14:08 Personal motivation and career shifts16:34 The importance of problem understanding in innovation18:14 Using workshops and AI for social innovation19:53 Rapid development and scaling of social solutions20:07 Impact of AI on social programme speed21:11 Advice for social innovation and corporate responsibility25:29 Systems thinking and systemic change in social programmes26:39 Closing remarks and gratitude

    EP 24 - Richard Donovan (Experian)

  2. Sep 1

    EP 23 - Faith Taylor (Kyndryl)

    SummaryFaith Taylor has built sustainability functions from scratch at Wyndham Worldwide, Tesla, and now Kyndryl. She walks through what actually works — making the business case with small wins, focusing effort where it counts, and staying resilient when progress is slow — and argues that intentionality matters more than ambition in creating change that lasts. KeywordsESG, sustainability, CSR, climate change, data centres, renewable energy, resilience, leadership, social impact, innovation, hospitality Key topics Faith's move from brand leadership into sustainabilityBuilding a global CSR function at Wyndham WorldwideWhy climate awareness became a strategic issueOperationalising sustainability across hospitality and techMeasuring impact and applying the 80/20 rule to ESGTechnology and innovation in the energy transitionThe challenge of embedding sustainability in franchise modelsResilience and positive vision in climate actionEstablishing and scaling sustainability and citizenship at KyndrylTakeaways Follow your passion and build your own role inside the organisationProve the business case for sustainability through small winsUse the 80/20 rule to concentrate on high-impact areasResilience and a positive vision sustain long-term changeGlobal collaboration and leadership are essential to climate solutions Chapters00:00 Introduction and career overview01:11 From brand leadership to sustainability02:07 The rise of green consumerism and climate awareness03:25 Creating her own role at Wyndham Worldwide05:13 Building the business case through operational savings07:47 Tracking impact and scaling initiatives10:44 Using the 80/20 rule to focus effort12:53 Bringing people and environmental goals together15:24 When sustainability becomes part of everyday business17:11 Saying no and staying true to your values21:26 Balancing energy growth and sustainability in data centres25:34 Global collaboration and leadership in climate solutions29:52 Getting involved in social impact and human rights GuestFaith Taylor, Global Sustainability and ESG Officer, Kyndryl — LinkedIn

    EP 23 - Faith Taylor (Kyndryl)

  3. Aug 31

    EP 22 - Anthony Sanchez (Moody's)

    Summary Anthony Sanchez, VP and Global Head of Community Impact at Moody's, traces his path from underserved communities to running corporate philanthropy at scale. He makes the case that volunteering only works when it's a genuine employee benefit rather than an obligation, and shares what he's learned about measuring impact that actually means something. Keywords community impact, employee volunteering, corporate social responsibility, nonprofit partnerships, skills-based volunteering, pro bono consulting, Moody's, American Express, disaster relief, impact measurement Key topics Anthony's background and what drew him to community serviceHow employee volunteering trends have shiftedWhat's worked in Moody's community impact programmesChallenges and hard lessons from CSR initiativesMeasuring success in volunteer programmesAdapting as social impact priorities changeSound bites "I always knew I wanted to serve communities.""Community impact evolves with the times.""Volunteering is a benefit offered to employees."Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Moody's impact strategy 04:43 Anthony's background and motivation for community service 08:27 What actually drives employee engagement in volunteering 10:36 [programme name — verify] and skills-based volunteering 13:02 Lessons from disaster response: Superstorm Sandy 15:33 Balancing volunteer demand against organisational resources 20:05 Measuring programme success and impact 21:31 Where Moody's focus is heading next 23:40 Advice for corporate peers on community impact 26:12 Strategies for increasing employee participation 30:17 Leadership involvement and authentic storytelling 35:29 Overcoming barriers to volunteer programme uptake 40:39 Navigating reputation, risk, and compliance in CSR 44:25 Authenticity and transparency in impact programmes 46:23 Closing thoughts

    EP 22 - Anthony Sanchez (Moody's)

  4. Aug 26

    EP 21 - Augustus Willman (Microsoft)

    Augustus Willman shares his journey from retail to tech, and how authentic partnerships and strategic storytelling turn CSR into lasting community impact aligned with measurable outcomes. Key topics - Building authentic partnerships in CSR - Strategic storytelling for impact - Aligning corporate purpose with community needs - Scaling community programmes globally - Overcoming internal buy-in challenges Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Augustus Willman's journey 04:48 Starting in retail and moving to tech 09:29 Myth busting: CSR does not have to be one-off 12:08 Building the Microsoft community programme 16:07 Challenges in showcasing value to stakeholders 19:02 Key supporters and mentors in CSR work 22:46 The future of CSR and corporate investment in social impact 26:50 Effective communication with leadership 30:19 Living in Ireland and building community 34:20 Next steps and building a global network Resources Microsoft corporate responsibility - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/corporate-responsibility GivingForce - https://givingforce.com

    EP 21 - Augustus Willman (Microsoft)

  5. Jul 14

    EP 20 - Jill Stoneberg (Virgin Voyages)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Jill Stonberg shares her journey from environmental studies to leading sustainability at Virgin Voyages, highlighting the challenges and successes in decarbonization, community impact, and engaging travelers in sustainability efforts. keywords sustainability, decarbonization, cruise industry, social impact, environmental responsibility, Virgin Voyages, corporate responsibility, eco-tourism, community engagement key topics Journey from environmental studies to cruise industry Decarbonization strategies and board engagement Engaging guests in sustainability activities Balancing strategy with tangible actions Overcoming challenges in sustainability leadership takeaways Persistence and resilience are key in sustainability roles. Engage leadership and stakeholders early and often. Start small with tangible projects to build momentum. Effective communication with non-experts is crucial. Authentic guest engagement enhances brand loyalty. guest name Jill Stonberg Titles From Tech to Travel: Jill Stonberg's Sustainability Journey Decarbonizing Cruises: Inside Virgin Voyages' Strategy sound bites "Decarbonization strategy was the hardest thing I faced." "You can't do this work on your own, stakeholder engagement is key." "Follow your passion and start small to build momentum." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 00:00 The Journey into Sustainability 05:28 Transitioning from Tech to Travel 09:28 Balancing Strategy and Hands-On Work 16:28 Challenges in Decarbonization 22:53 Advice for Newcomers in Sustainability resources Virgin Voyages Official Site - https://www.virginvoyages.com/ Presidio Graduate School - MBA in Sustainable Business - https://www.presidio.edu/ Jill Stonberg - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillstonberg/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillstonberg/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/jillstonberg

    EP 20 - Jill Stoneberg (Virgin Voyages)

  6. Jun 11

    EP 19 - Smruti Govan (PepsiCo)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Smruti Govan, Legal Director at PepsiCo, shares her unconventional career journey in human rights and corporate responsibility. She discusses effective strategies for integrating human rights into business operations, overcoming resistance, and scaling impactful programs across supply chains. keywords Human Rights, Corporate Responsibility, Supply Chain, ESG, Sustainability, Leadership, Impact, CSR, Business Strategy key topics Integrating human rights into corporate strategy Scaling impact programs across supply chains Overcoming resistance and building stakeholder buy-in guest name Smruti Govan key frameworks Business and Human Rights Framework Impact Scaling Model action items Build relationships and trust with stakeholders early Use data and case studies to demonstrate impact Celebrate small wins to maintain momentum Titles Scaling Human Rights in Global Supply Chains: Smruti Govan’s Journey at PepsiCo How to Influence Corporate Human Rights Strategies: Lessons from Smruti Govan sound bites "Patience is key in driving sustainable change" "Celebrate small wins along the impact journey" "Inspire others to lead in human rights" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Human Rights in Business 01:33 Smruti Govan's Unique Career Path 04:25 Implementing Effective Programs for Women 07:13 Challenges in Supply Chain Engagement 10:16 The Importance of Supplier Relationships 12:42 Navigating Internal and External Resistance 15:29 Lessons Learned and Reflections 18:12 Advice for Aspiring Human Rights Professionals 21:07 The Growing Importance of Human Rights in Organizations 22:34 Conclusion and Future Directions resources Givik Force - https://givikforce.com PepsiCo - https://pepsico.com Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) - https://www.bsr.org Amnesty International - https://www.amnesty.org PACE Program (by Gap Inc.) - https://www.gap.com RISE Program (by Gap Inc.) - https://www.gap.com guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/smruti-govan Twitter - https://twitter.com/smruti_govan

  7. Jun 9

    EP 18 - Cheryl Rosario (Munich Re)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this engaging interview, Cheryl Rosario shares her extensive experience in nonprofit, corporate philanthropy, and DE&I initiatives. She discusses her career journey, impactful projects, and insights on building sustainable CSR and DEI strategies that resonate beyond corporate cycles. keywords CSR, DEI, corporate philanthropy, nonprofit, community impact, leadership, strategic planning, social responsibility, inclusion, corporate social responsibility key topics Career journey in nonprofit and corporate sectors Impactful community projects and partnerships Strategies for sustainable CSR and DEI initiatives Managing diverse teams across global communities guest name Cheryl Rosario key frameworks Sustainable Impact Model Community-Centric CSR Strategy action items Reflect on your organization's core mission and stay committed. Engage communities early and often to ensure impactful projects. Foster diversity and inclusion to strengthen team performance. Build resilient programs that can withstand political and economic changes. Titles Building Lasting Impact: Cheryl Rosario's CSR & DEI Journey From Girl Scouts to Global Corporations: A Leadership Story sound bites "Arts support can solve societal issues." "Diverse teams think better and perform stronger." "Stay true to your mission, even if it takes longer." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Warm Weather Discussion 00:00 Cheryl's Journey into Philanthropy 02:12 Early Career and Leadership Development 04:48 Impact at American Express 07:33 Transition to Wyndham and Unique Challenges 10:05 Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement 12:43 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategies 15:33 Managing Global Teams and Local Needs 18:00 Opportunities for CSR and DEI Leaders resources Munich Re - https://www.munichre.com American Express Foundation - https://about.americanexpress.com/our-story/american-express-foundation Wyndham Hotels & Resorts - https://www.wyndhamhotels.com Habitat for Humanity - https://www.habitat.org National Trust for Historic Preservation - https://savingplaces.org Learning Ally - https://learningally.org guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylrosario Twitter - https://twitter.com/cherylrosario Website - https://cgrconsulting.com

  8. Jun 8

    EP 17 - Denise Melanson (The Team)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this engaging interview, Denise Melanson shares her unique journey from a music booking agent to a leader in social impact within the entertainment industry. Discover practical tools, industry insights, and strategies for embedding purpose-driven initiatives into entertainment and sports, emphasizing authenticity, relationship-building, and systemic change. keywords social impact, entertainment industry, sustainability, inclusion, advocacy, nonprofit, artist representation, industry tools, ESG, CSR key topics Transition from entertainment to social impact Industry tools for inclusion and sustainability Building authentic relationships with talent and nonprofits guest name Denise Melanson Titles From Booking Agent to Social Impact Leader: Denise Melanson's Journey Building Industry-Wide Tools for Inclusion and Sustainability sound bites "Authenticity is key to effective advocacy." "Let talent lead with their passions." "Focus on relationships, not just transactions." Chapters 00:00 Denise's Journey from Music Agent to Social Impact 01:31 The Shift in Passion and Purpose 03:50 Building the Paradigm Social Impact Department 06:37 Choosing Causes and Authenticity in Advocacy 09:22 Developing Practical Tools for Social Change 13:08 Navigating the Fast-Paced Music Industry 14:27 Creating Tools for Accessibility and Sustainability 17:49 Bridging Gaps Between Music and Sports 20:26 Building Meaningful Relationships with Artists 24:23 The Importance of Authentic Engagement resources Paradigm Talent Agency - https://www.paradigmagency.com/ Wasserman - https://www.wasserman.com/ The Team - https://theteam.com/ NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) - https://www.nrdc.org/ Save the Music Foundation - https://www.savethemusic.org/ Green Sports Alliance - https://greensportsalliance.org/ Music Sustainability Association - https://musicsustainability.org/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-melanson/

    EP 17 - Denise Melanson (The Team)
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A Good Force. Where we spotlight moments that shaped the leaders behind enterprise CSR and ESG to turn purpose into measurable change. Hosted by Ejaz Rashid, Founder & CEO at GivingForce.

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