The Doing Good Podcast

Kainos Caribbean

Welcome to The Doing Good Podcast (formerly Common Sense: Steps to Doing Good), hosted by Karen Philip. In the world of social impact and international development, we are often preached at about outcomes, KPIs, and capacity building—but we rarely take the time to talk about who we actually are. This is a space designed to peel back the layers of the nonprofit sector to reveal the humanity, the struggles, and the resilience of the people doing the work. Whether you are a seasoned nonprofit professional, a social entrepreneur, or someone simply looking for a way to make a difference, this podcast offers a roadmap that respects your humanity. We sit down with extraordinary changemakers to move beyond the "what" and the "how" of their organizations, focusing instead on the "who" and the common-sense steps they take to do good better. What You’ll Discover: Raw Stories: Uncovering the personal turning points and internal fuel that keep leaders going when resources are thin.Resilience in Action: Practical strategies for balancing the emotional demands of social change with professional boundaries.Common Sense Wisdom: Insightful, often counter-intuitive advice from those in the trenches of the Caribbean social development sector and beyond.Triumphs & Truths: Celebrating the "heart successes" that data alone can't capture. About Your Host: Karen Philip is a passionate advocate for authentic impact. Her journey—from dreaming of running children’s homes to navigating the complex landscape of Caribbean social development—has led her to a singular realization: the person behind the mission matters just as much as the mission itself. Connect with Us: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe and Join the Movement: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Because "doing good" is a two-way street, and it’s time we made it smarter—together.

Episodes

  1. Aug 10

    Rondell Trim: Change from the Ground Up | The Doing Good Podcast (S2, Ep. 4)

    Are we undervaluing the skills built through social advocacy? And how do we move from simple community charity to creating real pathways out of poverty? In this episode of The Doing Good Podcast, host Karen Philip sits down with Rondell Trim, Founder and Programme Coordinator of The Development Project, to address two massive challenges facing Caribbean changemakers today: getting compensated for advocacy work and designing social programs that create lasting upward mobility. Rondell shares actionable advice on how activists and project coordinators can audit their voluntary experience, package their skills in program design and grant writing, and transition into paid consulting and leadership positions. He also opens up about his personal upbringing, examining how community support systems alter life trajectories and why real development work must focus on creating structural conditions for change rather than temporary fixes. 📌 Key Topics Covered: Compensating Social Impact Work: Why advocacy builds real-world expertise in project coordination, proposal writing, and consulting—and why practitioners must charge for that value.Documenting Your Toolkit: How to translate grassroots activism into a high-impact professional resume.The Reality of Social Mobility: Understanding how resource access, networks, and community support influence someone's ability to break generational poverty.Creating Sustainable Pathways: Moving beyond helping people where they are to building systems that enable long-term progress.💖 Sponsored by Kainos Caribbean This season of The Doing Good Podcast is proudly sponsored by Kainos Caribbean. From expert grant writing to project management, Kainos Caribbean is here to help you build capacity and do good, better. 🌐 Explore services at: www.kainoscaribbean.com 🎙️ Connect with the Guest & Host Rondell Trim: The Development ProjectKainos Caribbean: @kainos.caribbean on Instagram | LinkedInIf this episode gave you clarity on your professional worth or project design, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, subscribe, and share it with a fellow advocate! 🎧✨ #NonprofitWork #SocialImpact #KainosCaribbean #DoGoodBetter #DoingGoodPodcast #CaribbeanDevelopment #Advocacy

  2. Jul 27

    Derval Barzey: Climate Justice, Human Stories | The Doing Good Podcast (S2, Ep. 3)

    Welcome back to The Doing Good Podcast! In this episode, host Karen Philip sits down with Derval Barzey, the visionary Founder of the Climate Conscious Podcast, for an incredibly candid conversation about resilience, consistency, and what it truly takes to advance the intersection of climate and gender justice across the Caribbean. Derval pulls back the curtain on the reality of balancing a purpose-driven podcast alongside a full-time career. She shares her personal journey navigating gender bias early in her professional life, the reality of "podfade," and the foundational principles that make up her personal Doing Good Toolkit. We dive deep into why technical spaces need human stories, how to move from inspiration to bold action, and why meaningful change requires a shared effort across the board. ✨ “Consistency is driven by purpose, and impact is not always measured in scale, but in the depth of connection and change.” 📌 In This Episode, We Discuss: Community as an Exchange: Approaching community as a two-way street—not just about looking for support, but actively contributing to shared spaces where people can grow and collaborate together.Boldness in Action: The courage to move a project from idea to reality. While many have strong ideas, progress often stalls at conception. Boldness is what carries the vision forward.Navigating Bias & Redefining Equity: Derval reflects on navigating gender bias early in her career, confronting the expectation that her place was in administrative roles rather than technical ones. She offers a nuanced perspective on gender equity, noting that progress isn’t about displacing men, but actively engaging them as shared partners in change.Beating "Podfade" with Purpose: In the digital space, many projects begin with high energy but fade after only a few episodes. Derval speaks candidly about how celebrating milestones—both big and small—and focusing on how her work resonates with listeners keeps her sustained.💖 Sponsored by Kainos Caribbean This season of The Doing Good Podcast is proudly sponsored by Kainos Caribbean. Kainos Caribbean offers a range of innovative services to enhance the Caribbean development sector. From expert grant writing to seamless project management, we’re here to help you do good better. 🌐 Learn more at: www.kainoscaribbean.com 🎙️ About The Guest Derval Barzey is a prominent Caribbean environmental advocate, sustainability consultant, and the creator and host of the Climate Conscious Podcast. Her work is dedicated to amplifying Caribbean perspectives on climate change, fostering environmental literacy, and driving inclusive climate leadership that centers on gender equity and regional resilience. 🔗 Connect with Derval: LinkedIn: Derval BarzeyWebsite: theclimateconscious.comListen to Her Show: Buzzsprout | YouTube📱 Connect With Us Instagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanWebsite: www.kainoscaribbean.comHow do you practice boldness in your own life and work? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and share your thoughts with us! 🎧✨ #DoingGoodPodcast #KainosCaribbean #ClimateLeadership #GenderEquity #DoGoodBetter #Community #BoldAction #WomenInLeadership #CaribbeanDevelopment

  3. Jul 13

    Alisha Ally: The Stories Behind the Policy | The Doing Good Podcast (S2, Ep. 2)

    Welcome back to The Doing Good Podcast! In this episode, host Karen Philip sits down with Strategic Communications Expert Alisha Ally for a powerful, deeply human conversation about leadership, visibility, and shifting how we define success in the social development sector. Alisha reflects on her own journey, sharing the importance of moving with your potential and honoring the people who challenged, affirmed, and expanded her sense of what was possible early on. Today, that experience shapes how she leads—she is fiercely intentional about helping others recognize and step into their own potential, especially in spaces where it is often overlooked or underestimated. We dive into why counting social media impressions isn't the same as creating real impact, how to overcome the hesitation of being visible, and why you need to start believing in your own unique magic. ✨ “Impact is not only about what we build or change externally, but also about how we enable others to grow into who they can become.” 📌 In This Episode, We Discuss: The Illusion of Awareness: In many organizations, project success is still measured by surface-level outputs: media coverage, social media impressions, and event photos. Alisha reminds us that awareness is not an accurate metric for impact. Without in-depth evaluation of projects and programs, we risk creating well-documented problems rather than meaningful solutions.Believing in Your Magic: Alisha encourages listeners to “believe in your magic,” but with a perspective that goes beyond the usual framing. She describes this “magic” not as something abstract, but as a clear recognition of your skills, talents, and lived expertise.The Power of Visibility: Challenging the hesitation many people feel about being seen. Alisha shares a timely reminder that true impact is not just about what we do, but whether we are willing to fully show up, be visible, and contribute.Moving with Your Potential: How intentional mentorship and lifting others up can change the landscape of Caribbean leadership and purpose-driven work.🎙️ About The Guest Alisha Ally is a Strategic Communications Expert, Policy Influencer, and the Founder & CEO of AHA Innovations. Known for her policy storytelling ability, she focuses heavily on bringing lived experiences—particularly around unpaid care work—into regional spaces to drive real, measurable social change. 📱 Connect With Alisha: LinkedIn: Alisha Ally | LinkedIn💖 Sponsored by Kainos Caribbean This season of The Doing Good Podcast is proudly sponsored by Kainos Caribbean. Kainos Caribbean offers a range of innovative services to enhance the Caribbean development sector. From expert grant writing to seamless project management, we’re here to help you do good better. 🌐 Learn more at: www.kainoscaribbean.com 📱 Connect With Us Instagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanWebsite: www.kainoscaribbean.comIf this conversation resonated with you, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and share this episode with a colleague or friend in the development sector! 🎧✨ #DoingGoodPodcast #KainosCaribbean #Purpose #DoGoodBetter #SocialImpact #PolicyStorytelling #Leadership #Visibility #CaribbeanDevelopment

  4. Jun 30

    Dario Richards: The Drive for Regional Change | The Doing Good Podcast (S2, Ep.1)

    Welcome to Season Two of The Doing Good Podcast! In our season premiere, host Karen Philip sits down with Dario Richards, Co-Founder of Inspire Life Solutions Group, for a raw, insightful conversation that completely reframes how we think about time, relationships, and value. Dario describes himself as a “premium gas station”—highly intentional about who he engages with, but deeply committed to pouring value into those within his space. For Dario, intentionality isn't about exclusivity for its own sake; it is about responsibility. This mindset roots his broader commitment to people development, whether through mentorship, discipleship, or a genuine desire to see others thrive. We dive deep into why people get stuck, his powerful shift in perspective during a service trip to Haiti, and what it truly takes to drive transformation across the Caribbean. ✨ "Most people think they lack motivation, but what they really lack is clarity." 📌 In This Episode, We Discuss: The Clarity Gap: Why progress often feels out of reach. Many of us know what we want to achieve—whether that is greater impact, income, or influence—but we struggle with the gap between the goal and the next actionable step. Dario breaks down why hard work isn't enough if it isn’t aligned with what actually moves you forward.Serving Beyond Words: Dario reflects on a powerful service story in Haiti that challenged his core strengths. As a natural communicator and speaker, he found himself in an environment where language could no longer be relied upon. This forced him to rethink how he connects, leading to a deeper impact grounded in presence, adaptability, and true human understanding.The Drive for Regional Transformation: How intentionality, discipline, and utilizing our networks can open doors and lift the entire Caribbean region.💖 Sponsored by Kainos Caribbean This season of The Doing Good Podcast is proudly sponsored by Kainos Caribbean. Kainos Caribbean offers a range of innovative services to enhance the Caribbean development sector. From expert grant writing to seamless project management, we’re here to help you do good better. 🌐 Learn more at: www.kainoscaribbean.com 🎙️ About The Guest Dario Richards is the Managing Director of Inspire Leadership Solutions Group and the Co-Founder of Inspire Life Solutions Group. Having traveled to nearly 40 countries, he uses his global perspective and background in missions to tackle gun and gang violence in Barbados, while building high-performing leaders and teams across both the private and public sectors. 📱 Connect With Dario LinkedIn: Dario Richards | LinkedInSubstack:Rich Insights | Dario Richards | Substack📱 Connect With Us Instagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanWebsite: www.kainoscaribbean.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, subscribe on your favorite platform, and share this episode with a fellow do-gooder! 🎧✨ #DoingGoodPodcast #KainosCaribbean #DoGoodBetter #Clarity #Leadership #Purpose #Growth #CaribbeanDevelopment #SocialImpact

  5. Apr 29

    Common Sense & Courage

    What does true allyship look like? And who are we, really, when the spotlight fades and the hard work of social change begins? In this raw and deeply personal episode, Karen Philip is joined by Ranako Bailey, host of the WeTalkingBois Podcast, to explore the powerful intersection of courage, gender equality, and intentional leadership. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" about allyship to look at the uncomfortable truths of doing the work. Ranako shares his journey of navigating sensitive conversations around masculinity and social justice, offering a masterclass in leading with both your head and your heart. This is a roadmap for those willing to risk being seen in order to create a more equitable world. In this episode, we discuss: The Courage to be Seen: Navigating the fear of pushback and the unexpected beauty of showing up authentically in social change spaces.True Allyship: Moving beyond performative gestures to become an integral part of the solution in gender equality and beyond.Managing Impulses: How to lead with intention rather than reaction, especially when dealing with complex social tensions.The Long Road: Confronting the reality that "we may all die and never see the change, but we still do the work."Whether you are a leader, an advocate, or someone wrestling with how to show up as a better ally, Ranako’s wisdom provides a common-sense guide to leading with unwavering hope. About Our Guest: Ranako Bailey is the host of the WeTalkingBois Podcast and a dedicated advocate for gender equality and intentional living. He is known for his bold approach to challenging traditional narratives and fostering deep, necessary conversations about social change. Connect with Ranako: Ranako Bailey | LinkedIn Connect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

  6. Apr 29

    Common Sense & Collaboration

    "Doing good" is a two-way street, but how do we ensure the traffic flows effectively? In this practical and eye-opening episode, Karen Philip welcomes Deidre Osei, Founder of Talawah Impact, to discuss the art and science of Common Sense Collaboration. We’re peeling back the layers on how nonprofits and businesses can build partnerships that actually work for everyone involved. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to look at the tangible mechanics of collaboration. Deidre introduces the "asset inventory"—a game-changing tool that helps nonprofits recognize their true value beyond just asking for a check. This episode is a roadmap for any organization looking to move from transactional handouts to transformational partnerships. In this episode, we discuss: The Asset Inventory: How to identify your organization's unique value and use it to negotiate stronger, more equitable partnerships.Demystifying CSR: Understanding corporate budget cycles and why "no budget" doesn't have to mean "no support."Creative Capital: Exploring the power of in-kind support, employee volunteering, and shared platforms as high-impact alternatives to cash donations.Sustainable Synergy: Building long-term relationships between the private sector and social development organizations that drive community-wide change.Whether you are a nonprofit leader seeking new resources or a corporate professional looking to deepen your social impact, Deidre’s expertise provides a common-sense guide to working better, together. About Our Guest: Deidre Osei is the Founder of Talawah Impact and a specialist in corporate-nonprofit partnerships. She is dedicated to helping organizations in the Caribbean and beyond maximize their impact through strategic, mutually beneficial collaboration. Connect with Deidre: Deidre Osei | LinkedInConnect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

  7. Apr 29

    Common Sense & Compassion

    Can "doing good" align harmoniously with your faith, or are they destined to clash? In this thought-provoking episode, Karen Philip sits down with the insightful Kerriann Hurley to grapple with the complex intersection of Christian beliefs and social impact. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" to look at the real-world challenges of putting faith into action. Kerriann shares her journey of navigating sensitive topics like reproductive health and youth advocacy within a faith-based framework, offering a masterclass in leading with both integrity and impact. In this episode, we discuss: The Intersection of Faith & Action: How to navigate "doing good" without causing unintended harm or compromising your values.Responsible Stewardship: What it really means to manage resources effectively in a world of urgent, competing needs.The Viability of the Calling: A candid conversation on how to sustain yourself financially while pursuing a life of service.Mindset Shifts: Moving from judgment to intention when planting seeds of change.Whether you are a nonprofit leader, a person of faith, or simply someone wrestling with how to make a difference ethically, Kerriann’s wisdom offers an invaluable guide for a more equitable and sustainable path. About Our Guest: Kerriann Hurley is a dedicated advocate known for her work at the intersection of faith, youth development, and reproductive health. She brings a unique perspective on how to bridge traditional values with modern social needs. Connect with Kerriann: Keriann Hurley | LinkedIn Connect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

  8. Apr 29

    Common Sense & Solutions

    How do we move from "quick fixes" to sustainable, long-term impact? In this essential episode, Karen Philip is joined by the world-renowned Dr. Sharilyn Hale to explore the strategic side of social change. We’re peeling back the layers on what it really takes to build an organization that lasts. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" about high-level theory to look at the practical, common-sense solutions required to scale your mission. Dr. Hale shares her extensive expertise on philanthropy and governance, offering a roadmap for leaders who want to ensure their organizations aren't just surviving, but thriving for generations to come. In this episode, we discuss: The Architecture of Impact: Designing strategies that prioritize long-term viability over short-term visibility.Sustainable Growth: How to scale your organization's reach without compromising its core values or burning out your team.Unlocking Philanthropy: Understanding the mindset of modern donors and how to build authentic, lasting partnerships.Governance as a Tool: Why strong leadership structures are a common-sense necessity for doing good better.Whether you are a nonprofit founder, a board member, or a donor looking to invest more strategically, Dr. Hale’s insights provide a masterclass in building for the future. About Our Guest: Dr. Sharilyn Hale is a leading expert in philanthropy, governance, and organizational strategy. With a global perspective and a heart for effective social change, she helps leaders navigate the complexities of sustainable growth and impact. Connect with Sharilyn: Dr. Sharilyn Hale, C.Dir | LinkedInhttps://www.watermarkpc.com/Connect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

  9. Apr 29

    Common Sense & Sanity

    Episode 2 of Common Sense Steps to Doing Good illuminates the often overlooked yet vital role of technical expertise in driving social change. Join Karen for a conversation with Social Development Professionals Christon Herbert anHow do you stay sane while changing the world? In this refreshing and deeply relatable episode, Karen Philip is joined by Leigh Ann Worrell and Christon Herbert to explore the intersection of social impact and project management. We’re peeling back the layers on the internal systems required to keep both your mission and your mental health intact. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" about constant hustle to look at the practical, common-sense systems that allow you to do good without burning out. Leigh Ann and Christon share their wealth of experience in managing complex projects, offering a roadmap for leaders who want to ensure their work is as organized as it is impactful. In this episode, we discuss: The Sanity Systems: Implementing project management tools that reduce chaos and prevent advocate exhaustion.Sustainable Pace: How to manage high-stakes social change projects without compromising your team’s well-being.The Project Management Mindset: Why structure is a common-sense necessity for translating big dreams into real-world results.Boundaries & Balance: Practical tips for maintaining professional boundaries in a sector that often demands "everything."Whether you are a project manager, a nonprofit leader, or a volunteer feeling the weight of the work, this conversation provides a masterclass in staying grounded while doing good. About Our Guests: Leigh Ann Worrell and Christon Herbert are seasoned professionals in the Caribbean social development sector, specializing in communications, project management, and strategic implementation. They bring a unique blend of technical skill and human-centered design to every project they touch. Connect with them:  Christon Herbert: Christon Herbert | LinkedIn Leigh Ann Worrell: Leigh-Ann Worrell | LinkedInConnect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

  10. Apr 29

    Common Sense 101

    Where do you begin when the world’s needs feel infinite, but your resources are finite? In this foundational episode, host Karen Philip steps out from behind the interviewer's chair to share the "why" behind the mission. We’re peeling back the layers on her personal journey—from early dreams of running a children’s home to navigating the complex, often exhausting reality of the Caribbean social development sector. We’re moving beyond the "preaching" of the industry to ground ourselves in the basics. Karen explores why she felt the need to create this space and why "common sense" is the most underrated tool in any changemaker's toolkit. This episode is a roadmap for anyone who has ever felt called to serve but struggled to find a sustainable, authentic way to make it happen. In this episode, we discuss: The Origin Story: Karen’s personal evolution from missionary work to strategic advocacy and why she chose the path of "common sense."The "Preaching" Gap: Identifying why the social impact sector often ignores the humanity of the worker and how we can change that narrative.The Common Sense Philosophy: Defining what it actually means to "do good better" without losing yourself in the process.Anchors of Resilience: A first look at the internal tools needed to build a long-term career in social impact.Whether you’re just starting your journey or you’re a veteran leader looking for a reset, this episode sets the stage for everything it means to lead with intention and heart. About Your Host: Karen Philip is a passionate advocate for authentic impact and the founder of Kainos Caribbean. Her work is dedicated to humanizing the development sector and providing practical, common-sense guidance for the next generation of do-gooders. Connect with The Doing Good Podcast: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more do-gooders across the globe!

About

Welcome to The Doing Good Podcast (formerly Common Sense: Steps to Doing Good), hosted by Karen Philip. In the world of social impact and international development, we are often preached at about outcomes, KPIs, and capacity building—but we rarely take the time to talk about who we actually are. This is a space designed to peel back the layers of the nonprofit sector to reveal the humanity, the struggles, and the resilience of the people doing the work. Whether you are a seasoned nonprofit professional, a social entrepreneur, or someone simply looking for a way to make a difference, this podcast offers a roadmap that respects your humanity. We sit down with extraordinary changemakers to move beyond the "what" and the "how" of their organizations, focusing instead on the "who" and the common-sense steps they take to do good better. What You’ll Discover: Raw Stories: Uncovering the personal turning points and internal fuel that keep leaders going when resources are thin.Resilience in Action: Practical strategies for balancing the emotional demands of social change with professional boundaries.Common Sense Wisdom: Insightful, often counter-intuitive advice from those in the trenches of the Caribbean social development sector and beyond.Triumphs & Truths: Celebrating the "heart successes" that data alone can't capture. About Your Host: Karen Philip is a passionate advocate for authentic impact. Her journey—from dreaming of running children’s homes to navigating the complex landscape of Caribbean social development—has led her to a singular realization: the person behind the mission matters just as much as the mission itself. Connect with Us: Website: www.kainoscaribbean.comInstagram: @kainos.caribbeanLinkedIn: Kainos CaribbeanSubscribe and Join the Movement: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Because "doing good" is a two-way street, and it’s time we made it smarter—together.