Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

Alberto Lidji
  • 5.0 (22)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Weekly

Listen to 350+ interviews on philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Guests include Paul Polman, David Lynch, Siya Kolisi, Cherie Blair, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Bob Moritz, David Miliband and Julia Gillard. Hosted by Alberto Lidji, Visiting Professor at Strathclyde Business School and ex-Global CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation. Visit Lidji.org for more information.

  1. 4d ago

    Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett: Creating the Plants of the Future Through Innovation, Science & Philanthropy

    Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett joins Alberto Lidji to explore one of the world's most important—and often overlooked—scientific frontiers: plant science. As Chair of the John Innes Centre, Sir Thomas shares how this globally renowned research institute is developing the plants of the future—crops that are more nutritious, more resilient to climate change, require fewer chemical inputs, and can help feed a growing global population sustainably. The conversation examines the remarkable advances emerging from modern plant science, from vitamin D-enriched tomatoes and disease-resistant potatoes to drought-tolerant crops and breakthroughs that could transform biodiversity, regenerative agriculture, and global food security. A central theme is the distinction between precision breeding and genetic modification. Sir Thomas explains how precision breeding accelerates processes that occur naturally, enabling scientists to develop improved crop varieties far more rapidly while navigating evolving regulatory environments in the UK and Europe. The discussion also explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in scientific discovery. AI, advanced data science, and international collaboration are reshaping how researchers identify valuable genetic traits, accelerate breakthroughs, and tackle some of humanity's greatest challenges. Beyond agriculture, the conversation highlights how plant science contributes to medicine, including promising research with potential applications in vaccine development, illustrating how fundamental scientific research often generates benefits far beyond its original purpose. Sir Thomas also reflects on a challenge familiar to many philanthropists: funding long-term scientific research. While scientific discoveries can take years or even decades to translate into real-world impact, he argues that some of society's greatest advances require patient, visionary philanthropy willing to invest in the future rather than immediate outcomes. This episode explores: Why plant science is central to food security, human health, and climate resilience. How precision breeding differs from genetic modification. The role of AI in accelerating scientific discovery. Why long-term philanthropic capital is essential for breakthrough science. How scientific storytelling can inspire greater public understanding and support. A fascinating conversation at the intersection of science, sustainability, innovation, and philanthropy—offering an optimistic vision of how research today can help create a healthier future for people and the planet. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  2. Jul 6

    Patrick Dunne on What Makes Great Boards Work

    Patrick Dunne, author of "Boards", joins host Alberto Lidji on the Do One Better Podcast for a timely conversation on how boards can become more effective, more agile and more valuable. Drawing on the third edition of his book "Boards", Patrick explores how governance is changing in a world shaped by AI, faster decision making, dynamic strategy, rising uncertainty and more complex risk. He looks at the growing role of AI in boardrooms, from summarising papers and tracking regulatory change to supporting better decisions, while also considering where human judgement remains essential. Patrick also discusses the increasing importance of subcommittees, the value of bringing domain experts and next generation voices into governance, and why advisory boards may not always be the best way to access external insight. He reflects on trustee remuneration, generational diversity and the need for boards to move beyond traditional meeting formats. A highly practical episode for board members, chairs, chief executives, trustees, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs who want to strengthen governance and make better decisions. Patrick's executive experience includes 26 years in a variety of investment and management roles with 3i Group plc where, until 2012, he was Communications Director, a member of its Operating committee and Chairman of its Operational Risk forum.  Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  3. Jun 29

    Rachel Kolisi on Falling Forward, Philanthropy, and the Power of the One

    Rachel Kolisi returns to the Do One Better Podcast for a candid and deeply reflective conversation with host Alberto Lidji about philanthropy, resilience, and the launch of the Falling Forward Foundation in South Africa. Since her previous appearance on the podcast, Rachel’s life and work have changed significantly. Having co-founded the Kolisi Foundation and led major impact work, she now enters a new chapter focused on strengthening the broader nonprofit ecosystem, particularly grassroots organisations that are doing vital work but lack visibility, resources, and access to support. Through the Falling Forward Foundation, Rachel is not looking to reinvent the wheel. Instead, she wants to walk alongside existing organisations, amplify their work, and help solve practical barriers that can prevent life-changing services from reaching communities. She shares the example of a community kitchen in the Eastern Cape that was feeding thousands of people but could not operate properly during the rainy season because of a leaking roof. For Rachel, this kind of issue matters deeply. It may not always fit neatly into a systemic change framework, but for the people affected, it is transformational. This episode explores the emotional demands of philanthropic leadership and how, in difficult seasons, Rachel returns to the deeper purpose behind her work: serving people and creating meaningful change. Rachel speaks openly about rebuilding after personal and professional upheaval, the discipline of staying true to one’s mission, and the beauty of small acts of generosity. She highlights the potential of crowdfunding and collective giving, making the case that many small contributions can create meaningful and tangible change. The conversation also touches on South Africa’s nonprofit landscape, the need for stronger collaboration, the role of trust and transparency, and Rachel’s admiration for Melinda French Gates as a philanthropic leader who continues to resource areas that have often been overlooked. At the heart of the episode is Rachel’s reminder that impact does not always need to be measured only at systemic scale. Sometimes the most meaningful change begins with one person, one act, one relationship, and one moment of care. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  4. Jun 22

    How Renewable Energy Can Support Peace in Conflict-Affected Countries. An interview with David Mozersky, President and Co-Founder of Energy Peace Partners.

    In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with David Mozersky, President and Co-Founder of Energy Peace Partners, about the connection between renewable energy and peacebuilding in fragile and conflict-affected countries. David explains how some of the least electrified countries in the world are also among the most affected by conflict and climate vulnerability. From South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo to Somalia and Chad, Energy Peace Partners works to bring renewable energy solutions to communities where electricity access can transform lives, strengthen local economies, improve health and education, enhance security, and support peace. The conversation explores how distributed renewable energy, such as solar mini grids and public lighting, can create shared benefits for communities, open up new economic opportunities, and serve as a practical peacebuilding tool. David also introduces the Peace Renewable Energy Credit, known as a PREC, an innovative financing mechanism that helps channel sustainability funding into renewable energy projects in fragile settings. David discusses the role of major corporate buyers, including Microsoft and Google, and looks at the potential of the new PREC Aggregation Facility, an $11 million initiative designed to unlock far larger investment in renewable energy projects across fragile states in Africa. He also considers the role of philanthropy, the challenges of building a new field at the intersection of peace and renewable energy, and the importance of collaboration among funders, developers, policymakers, researchers, and peacebuilding organizations. This is a thoughtful and timely conversation about how clean energy can do more than reduce emissions. It can improve lives, create new forms of cooperation, and contribute to peace and stability in some of the world’s most challenging contexts. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  5. Jun 15

    Keeping Children Safe Online: Chris Sherwood, CEO of NSPCC, on AI, Social Media, Regulation, and Protecting Children

    In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive Officer of the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children), one of the United Kingdom's most respected and influential child protection charities. As technology continues to reshape childhood, Chris explores the urgent challenges facing children and young people online, from social media and algorithmic design to artificial intelligence, sextortion, online exploitation, and emerging digital risks. Drawing on insights from Childline, which receives a contact from a child or young person every 45 seconds, he shares what children are experiencing firsthand and why stronger protections are needed. The conversation examines the UK's Online Safety Act, the responsibilities of technology companies, and the growing debate over age restrictions, platform accountability, and digital regulation. Chris argues that while important progress has been made, legislation and enforcement must evolve at the pace of technological change, particularly as AI becomes increasingly embedded in young people's lives. At the same time, he highlights the enormous potential of AI to support education, learning, healthcare, and personal development. The challenge, he explains, is ensuring that innovation is accompanied by meaningful safeguards that make technology worthy of children's trust. The discussion also explores the NSPCC's commitment to listening directly to young people, ensuring that their voices shape public policy and the decisions that will affect their futures. Chris reflects on the differing perspectives of parents and children, the role of schools, and the practical steps adults can take to support safer online experiences. Finally, Chris shares his own leadership journey, from a childhood shaped by adversity to leading some of the UK's most prominent social purpose organisations, including the RSPCA, Relate, and now the NSPCC. Throughout, he returns to a guiding belief that meaningful change is possible when society is willing to act. Topics covered include: • The mission and work of the NSPCC and Childline • Online safety and child protection in the digital age • The strengths and limitations of the Online Safety Act • Social media, algorithms, and platform accountability • Sextortion, AI-generated abuse, and emerging online harms • Artificial intelligence and its implications for children and young people • Why young people's voices must be central to policymaking • The role of parents, schools, governments, and technology companies • Leadership, and optimism as a force for change Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  6. Jun 8

    Collaborative Philanthropy as an Asset Class: Unlocking Greater Impact Through Pooled Giving — Alison Powell, Kimberly Dasher Tripp & Neha Dalal

    Collaborative philanthropy is emerging as one of the most promising innovations in modern giving. In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, host Alberto Lidji is joined by three leading voices in collaborative philanthropy: Alison Powell, Partner at The Bridgespan Group and leader of its Collaborative Philanthropy practice; Kimberly Dasher Tripp, Founder of Strategy for Scale; and Neha Dalal, Principal at Jasper Ridge Partners, where she advises families and foundations on strategic philanthropy and impact. Together, they explore the growing role of collaborative funds as a powerful vehicle for scaling philanthropic impact. Drawing on their jointly authored article, Collaboratives as a Philanthropic Asset Class, the guests examine how expert-led pooled funds are reshaping the philanthropic landscape. They explain why collaborative funds—vehicles that aggregate capital from multiple donors and deploy it through a shared strategy—can help address some of philanthropy’s most persistent challenges, including fragmented giving, limited donor capacity, and the difficulty of identifying and supporting the highest-impact opportunities. The conversation explores the analogy between collaborative funds and investment vehicles such as mutual funds, ETFs, and venture capital funds. Just as investors rely on professional fund managers and diversified portfolios, donors can leverage collaborative funds to access deep expertise, rigorous diligence, strategic coordination, and greater reach than they might achieve on their own. Alison, Kimberly, and Neha discuss the remarkable diversity of collaborative funds operating today—from issue-focused initiatives addressing climate change, gender equity, poverty, global health, and education, to community-led funds that place decision-making power in the hands of those closest to the challenges being addressed. They also examine how collaborative funds can help donors learn while giving, build relationships with peers, and participate in communities of practice focused on shared impact goals. The discussion addresses common misconceptions and critiques of collaborative giving, including concerns about intermediary costs, loss of donor control, and potential duplication within the philanthropic ecosystem. The guests explain why these considerations are best understood as trade-offs rather than shortcomings, and how collaborative models can often increase both efficiency and effectiveness while mobilizing significantly more capital toward urgent social and environmental challenges. The episode also explores the infrastructure needed to support the continued growth of collaborative philanthropy, including improved discovery tools, clearer evaluation frameworks, and stronger field-building efforts that help donors identify and engage with collaborative opportunities aligned with their values and objectives. Whether you are an experienced philanthropist, an emerging donor, a family office advisor, or simply interested in how resources can be deployed more effectively for social impact, this conversation offers a compelling perspective on why collaborative funds may become an increasingly important part of the future of philanthropy. Key Topics Covered What collaborative philanthropy funds are and how they operate Why collaborative funds can be viewed as a philanthropic asset class The parallels between collaborative giving and investment fund models How collaborative funds increase efficiency, expertise, and scale The role of community leadership, proximity, and power-sharing in philanthropy Different collaborative fund structures, governance models, and strategies How donors can determine whether collaborative giving is right for them The importance of donor self-awareness and philanthropic strategy Common barriers to collaborative giving and how they can be overcome The infrastructure needed to strengthen the collaborative philanthropy ecosystem Why many practitioners see collaborative funds as a key part of philanthropy’s future Memorable Insights Collaborative funds allow donors to leverage expert knowledge, shared diligence, and collective action. Giving through a collaborative fund does not replace direct philanthropy; it complements it. Many of philanthropy’s biggest challenges are too large and interconnected for any single donor to address alone. Collaborative funds can help move capital more quickly, strategically, and at greater scale. The future of philanthropy may depend on helping donors move from acting alone to acting together. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  7. Jun 1

    Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation: Accelerating Discovery, Prevention and Cure

    Heart and circulatory diseases remain among the world's leading causes of death, yet scientific progress is accelerating at an extraordinary pace. In this episode of the Do One Better Podcast, Alberto Lidji speaks with Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation, about the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of cardiovascular health. Charmaine shares how the British Heart Foundation invests more than £100 million annually in research, supports millions of people through information and advocacy, and works to influence policy on issues ranging from smoking prevention to public health inequalities. The conversation explores emerging breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, data science and genetics, including the British Heart Foundation's ambitious Cure Heart programme, which seeks to develop the first treatments for inherited heart muscle conditions that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. They also discuss the growing role of weight loss medications, the importance of tackling health inequalities, and the need to ensure that advances in medicine benefit everyone. Key topics include: How AI, data and genetic technologies are reshaping cardiovascular medicine The Cure Heart programme and the pursuit of life-changing treatments for inherited heart conditions Why CPR training and wider access to defibrillators can save lives The British Heart Foundation's Accelerator Circle and approaches to accelerating innovation New partnerships focused on women's cardiovascular health and improving outcomes globally Charmaine concludes with a powerful call to action: learn CPR. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

  8. May 25

    Amber Miller, President of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation: The Promise and Peril of AI and Emerging Technologies in a More Uncertain World

    With an endowment exceeding $14 billion and annual grantmaking of roughly $600 to $700 million, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation occupies a distinctive position in global philanthropy: large enough to shape conversations, yet intentionally focused on convening expertise, supporting long-term thinking, and backing institutions working on society’s most complex challenges. In this episode, Amber Miller, President of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss how one of the world’s leading foundations is approaching artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and an increasingly uncertain global landscape. The conversation explores how AI is becoming a cross-cutting concern across the foundation’s work, spanning climate, democracy, education, public systems, and global development. Rather than treating AI solely as a technological issue, Miller describes efforts to connect traditionally separate areas of expertise, creating new ways to understand both risks and opportunities. A central focus is security. Miller reflects on near-term threats linked to AI and emerging technologies, including vulnerabilities affecting hospitals, energy grids, water systems, transportation networks, and other forms of critical infrastructure. The discussion also examines the convergence of AI with biosynthesis and quantum technologies, including concerns that advances in quantum-enabled decryption could eventually undermine existing encryption systems with implications for public systems, state resilience, and national security. The governance challenge is equally complex. Beyond familiar narratives centered on competition between the United States and China, Miller points to the potential influence of "middle powers" and subnational actors in shaping norms, oversight, and approaches to AI governance. The episode considers who will help guide the future of these technologies: governments, researchers, civil society, universities, industry, philanthropic institutions, and actors operating across borders and sectors. Yet the conversation is far from pessimistic. Miller repeatedly emphasizes that AI is not inherently good or bad, and that its ultimate impact will depend on how societies choose to deploy it. Potential opportunities discussed include: Accelerating breakthroughs in medicine, genomics, and disease treatment Improving efficiency in clean energy systems and supporting climate solutions Enabling more personalized learning and strengthening educational outcomes Expanding productivity, unlocking new forms of work, and augmenting human capability rather than replacing it Drawing on a career spanning astrophysics, university leadership, and science-informed public engagement, Miller offers a perspective shaped by interdisciplinary thinking and a deep interest in solving difficult problems. Throughout the episode, she returns to a recurring theme: humanity is living through a pivotal moment marked by rapid technological advancement, societal polarization, and mounting global challenges, but also extraordinary potential for ingenuity, collaboration, and progress. This is a conversation about AI, philanthropy, governance, and emerging technologies. More fundamentally, it is a conversation about whether institutions can work together to steer powerful innovations toward human flourishing rather than instability. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 350+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

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Listen to 350+ interviews on philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Guests include Paul Polman, David Lynch, Siya Kolisi, Cherie Blair, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Bob Moritz, David Miliband and Julia Gillard. Hosted by Alberto Lidji, Visiting Professor at Strathclyde Business School and ex-Global CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation. Visit Lidji.org for more information.

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