Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

Eric Ressler
  • 5.0 (15)
  • 非营利
  • 一周一更

Designing Tomorrow explores a new playbook for modern social impact leaders and brands to reach their true impact potential.    Why do some social impact brands thrive, while so many others fail to get traction, build support for their cause, and make meaningful progress? Imagine your impact with truly sustainable revenue and resources. With deeper community engagement and relationships. With more influence in your social impact category.   Hosted by Eric Ressler, Founder & Creative Director of Cosmic, with co-host Jonathan Hicken, Executive Director of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, each episode dives into the strategies, mindsets, and behaviors top social impact brands use to play and win in the attention economy. Go beyond high-level concepts to specific tools and tactics you can use today.   Watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes each Tuesday.  Let’s design a better tomorrow, together.Designing Tomorrow is a Cosmic Production. Learn more at https://designbycosmic.com/

  1. 5天前

    The Funder Breaking All the (Fake) Rules

    What if philanthropy, as we know it, is a flawed system? In this episode, we're joined by Jen Nguyen, a director at the Stupski Foundation, a unique "spend-down" organization designed to close its doors after giving away all of its assets by 2029. Jen, a former college counselor, provides an unapologetically candid look at a sector she may soon leave, revealing a rare freedom to challenge the status quo from within. We'll discuss how a "wait and see" approach to philanthropy falls short in moments of crisis, why foundations often prioritize their own survival over the needs of the communities they serve, and what it truly means to lead with a "nothing to lose" philosophy. Jen unpacks her critiques of the 5% payout rule, the "overhead" myth, and the power imbalances between funders and the organizations on the front lines. This conversation is a must-listen if you've ever wondered what a more just, trusting, and effective philanthropic sector could look like, or if the "rainy day" that so many foundations are saving for is already here. ⛈️ Notable Quotes “The rainy day is here. So what are we saving for? What good is the Stupski Foundation going to be if it exists 50 years from now?” — Jen [06:05] “In my opinion, my job is not hard. The work is hard... We just need to give out money more quickly.” — Jen [28:24] “We need to be able to value that solidarity… The philanthropic field is set up to reflect capitalism, competition….” — Jen [34:50] “It’s their practices that are causing executive directors to have to stretch themselves into different practices and way too thin….” — Jen [40:42] Timestamps [00:00] The “Wait and See” Approach [01:03] The Flaws of Institutional Philanthropy [02:18] Why Funders Are Reluctant to Speak Out [03:55] A Crisis of Government Funding [07:01] The Spend-Down Foundation Model [10:09] Rethinking Trust-Based Philanthropy [14:49] The Proper Role of Philanthropy [19:38] Balancing Intentionality and Impact [22:16] A Magic Wand for Philanthropy [26:22] The Problem with Due Diligence [29:22] What Philanthropy Can Learn from Venture Capital [35:32] The Overhead Conversation [40:33] Advice for Foundations [42:28] Advice for Nonprofit Leaders [46:31] Where to Connect with Jen and the Stupski Foundation P.S. — Feeling a disconnect between your mission and your brand? Cosmic helps social impact leaders build trust through story-rich brands, compelling campaigns, and values-aligned strategy. Let’s talk about how to elevate your impact: https://designbycosmic.com/ Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    51 分钟

  2. 9月16日

    You Can’t Control Everything (But You Can Control This)

    Reflections on fear, control, and what you can actually do about it.  As we head into year-end — often the most high-stakes season in our sector — this episode will help you develop the right mindset to navigate it skillfully.  Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    6 分钟

  3. 9月9日

    What If the Economy Were Built on Care?

    What if everything you’ve been taught about economic progress is wrong? In this episode, Stacey Edgar — social worker turned social entrepreneur and now executive director of the International Folk Art Market — shares her journey through the “career jungle gym” of the social impact sector. We unpack her concept of artisan economics, a radically human approach to commerce rooted in care, dignity, and connection. From surviving U.S. customs mishaps to rewriting economic theory from a feminist perspective, Stacey challenges the status quo and shows what a purpose-driven economy really looks like — on the ground, in the marketplace, and in our communities. If you’ve ever wondered whether mission can truly coexist with margin, or how to lead with care in a world of burnouts and bans, this episode is for you. Episode Highlights [00:00] Introduction Challenging the paradox of progress and introducing artisan economics[02:06] Stacey’s Nonlinear Path From social work to fair trade founder to nonprofit ED[03:43] Turning $2,000 into a Movement The surprising spark behind Global Girlfriend[05:35] Lessons from the Early Days “Just ask.” The power of invitation in purpose-driven business[07:30] Teaching Business with Purpose From MBA metrics to artisan-led projects across the globe[10:26] Leading a Legacy Nonprofit The cultural shift from founder-led to stakeholder-centered leadership[12:08] Resilience Under Pressure What happens when “women” becomes a banned word in federal grants[16:27] Building a Purpose-First Economy Stacey’s upcoming book and why care must be central to the future of work[20:26] Defining the Culture of Care From feminist economics to Bhutan’s “gross national happiness”[23:18] The Loneliness of Leadership Where Stacey finds strength during tough times[24:35] What’s Lighting Her Up Authentic creativity in a world obsessed with AI and performance[26:19] Digital Disconnection Why real person-to-person connection still matters most  Notable Quotes “There is no career ladder. There is a career jungle gym. Go from playground to playground, following your curiosity.” — Stacey [02:06] “Once you tell people what you’re doing, it’s not a sale… You’re inviting someone to be part of a bigger movement.” — Stacey [05:35] “In the artisan economy, creativity builds on itself… It’s about building forward and retaining tradition.” — Stacey [19:58] “Our biggest personal poverty at the moment is disconnection.” — Stacey [27:23] “When purpose becomes your marketing, it’s gone past its core.” — Stacey [17:15] P.S. — Feeling the disconnect between your mission and your message? I help social impact leaders build trust through story-rich brands, compelling campaigns, and values-aligned strategy. Let’s talk Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    29 分钟

  4. 9月2日

    The Vision Window is Open...For Now

    How to recognize and act on the rare moments when transformation is possible. Join the conversation on substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/eressler/p/the-vision-window-is-openfor-now?r=8rkfl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    7 分钟

  5. 8月26日

    Amanda Litman on How Real Change Happens

    What if real change doesn't begin with institutions, campaigns, or capital — but with the people we invite into our lives? In this episode, Eric sits down with Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run for Something and author of When We’re In Charge, to explore how small, human-scale actions can spark transformational impact — from politics to parenting to how we rebuild our social lives post-pandemic. Amanda has helped 225,000+ people raise their hands to run for office — and she’s just getting started. In this candid conversation, she breaks down how we show up, lead, connect, and fundraise in ways that build community rather than extract from it. Episode Highlights: [00:00] What if real change starts with people — not policy, profit, or programs? [02:49] Amanda’s three-pronged theory of social change: electoral power, workplace culture, and human relationships [04:25] The power of “casual hosting” to rebuild adult friendships and community [07:11] Why digital connection often feels empty — and what we can do about it [09:12] Designing invitations people can say “yes” to — both in life and in leadership [11:58] Fundraising is broken. Here's how we fix it without losing integrity [14:48] “Don’t treat your supporters like crap.” Amanda on the ethics of political messaging [18:48] How millennials are redefining leadership in the workplace [21:29] Why personality — not brand — is key to breaking through on new media [24:18] What keeps Amanda going when everything feels impossible [26:21] The origin story of Run for Something and what’s coming next  Notable Quotes: “If work sucks less, people can be better parents, partners, and citizens.” — Amanda Litman [03:20]  “Don’t treat your supporters like crap. If you’ve told them the sky is falling for ten years — what now that it’s actually falling?” — Amanda Litman [16:05]  “I only drink the poison I have the antidote for.” — Amanda Litman [25:06]  “Organizations can’t really tell a story. A person can.” — Amanda Litman [22:43]  “We make it easy to say yes — whether it's dinner or running for office.” — Amanda Litman [09:12] P.S. — Struggling to align your message with your mission? We help social impact leaders like you build trust-building brands through authentic storytelling, thoughtful design, and digital strategy that works. Let’s talk about your goals » Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    29 分钟

  6. 8月19日 · 附赠内容

    What's your truth?

    In this episode, I’m exploring a question that’s been showing up in a lot of our recent work — and in my own thinking: What is your truth? Links: 📝 Read the full essay version on our new Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/eressler/p/what-is-your-truth?r=8rkfl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=podcast&showWelcomeOnShare=true Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    5 分钟

  7. 8月5日

    The Power (and Pitfalls) of Partnerships

    Everyone loves the idea of collaboration — but real partnership? That’s harder. From mismatched visions to unclear roles, even the most well-intentioned alliances can go sideways fast. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down what makes partnerships work — and what to watch out for before saying yes. ➔ The five elements every partnership needs to succeed (straight from the Collective Impact framework).  ➔ The one conversation to have before committing to collaborate. ➔ How to recognize when you’re serving the mission — and when you’re just serving the relationship. ➔ Why a shared measurement system matters more than you think. ➔ The quiet risk of over-partnering — and how to protect your team from burnout. If you’ve ever asked yourself, Should we partner?, this episode will give you the clarity, language, and strategy to answer with confidence. Don’t just partner for the sake of it. Partner for impact. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Realistic measurement: Start small, build from there[00:54] Why collective impact matters—and when it works[02:36] Weekly partnerships: A look inside nonprofit realities[03:51] Ingredient #1 – Common Agenda: Avoiding false alignment[06:14] Ingredient #2 – Shared Measurement: Keep it simple and aligned[11:56] Leading vs. lagging indicators in collaborative efforts[11:56] Ingredient #3 – Mutually Reinforcing Activities: Define your role[14:57] Ingredient #4 – Continuous Communication: Keep the momentum[15:44] Ingredient #5 – Backbone Support: Ownership drives sustainability[19:31] Human friction: Ego, credit, and collaboration fatigue[20:23] When to pursue partnerships—and when not to[22:54] Self-awareness over scope creep: Do what you do best[26:35] Group project syndrome: Don’t say yes if it’s not a win-win[27:59] Should partnerships have an exit clause? Resources: Article - “Collective Impact” by John Kania & Mark Kramer - Stanford Social Innovation ReviewArticle - Turning Stats Into Stories: Supercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of ImpactArticle -Defeat Mission Creep and Master Your Nonprofit's Messaging to Maximize Impact Article - Are You Using Your Power or Giving it Away?Podcast - Are You Bold Enough To Lead The Conversation? Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    30 分钟

  8. 7月22日

    How to Build a Strong Case for Support

    Too many social impact leaders step into donor meetings with a bold vision — but an unclear case for why anyone should support it. Your case for support isn’t just a fundraising tool — it’s a strategic asset that can align your messaging, mobilize your team, and inspire serious investment in your mission. But only if you get it right. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan walk through a 5-part framework to help you build a clear, compelling case that connects with hearts and minds — and opens doors. ➔ Why most cases for support skip the one question every donor is asking.  ➔ The five ingredients of a persuasive narrative (and how to use them beyond fundraising).  ➔ How to tailor your pitch without losing your integrity.  ➔ Why “bragging” is essential — and how to do it without turning people off.  ➔ A practical way to turn your case into a year-long content and management tool. Whether you’re prepping for a major campaign or just trying to sharpen your story, this episode will help you rethink your approach — and give your supporters a reason to say yes. Don't just ask for support. Make the case. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Why your case for support must start with clarity[01:24] Why this isn’t just for capital campaigns[02:40] Step 1 – The Why[04:27] Step 2 – The Vision[07:44] Step 3 – The Strategy[10:30] Step 4 – Credibility[12:53] Brag or stay humble? Striking the right tone with funders[14:27] Step 5 – The Ask[21:42] Building a forecasting pipeline for major gifts[24:13] Mapping donor motivations to maximize engagement[25:40] Bonus: Turn your case for support into your content strategyResources: Better Brand StorytellingRep. Katie Porter's Messaging TacticsCampaign Messaging for Major Donors vs. Grassroots SupportersSupercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of ImpactYour Theory of Change isn't finished until your Grandma can understand it.Change you makeYour Organization’s Credibility Rests on Your WebsiteMetrics or impact storytellingWhat to Do When Funders Say "No"  Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

    28 分钟
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Designing Tomorrow explores a new playbook for modern social impact leaders and brands to reach their true impact potential.    Why do some social impact brands thrive, while so many others fail to get traction, build support for their cause, and make meaningful progress? Imagine your impact with truly sustainable revenue and resources. With deeper community engagement and relationships. With more influence in your social impact category.   Hosted by Eric Ressler, Founder & Creative Director of Cosmic, with co-host Jonathan Hicken, Executive Director of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, each episode dives into the strategies, mindsets, and behaviors top social impact brands use to play and win in the attention economy. Go beyond high-level concepts to specific tools and tactics you can use today.   Watch on YouTube or listen to new episodes each Tuesday.  Let’s design a better tomorrow, together.Designing Tomorrow is a Cosmic Production. Learn more at https://designbycosmic.com/

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