Jason Lewis: Rethinking Big Philanthropy

When we talk about philanthropy, we're not just talking about giving—we're talking about power, ethics, and responsibility. In this episode of Real Talk for Real Fundraisers, Jeff Schreifels sits down with author and fundraising strategist Jason Lewis for a provocative conversation about the future of philanthropy and the moral questions surrounding big giving. Together, they explore the historical roots of foundations, the lack of accountability in traditional funding structures, and the growing call for philanthropy to evolve. Jason also offers a compelling case for embracing the gift economy—a model that prioritizes generosity over control—and challenges the sector to rethink its role in driving real social change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone wrestling with the tensions between fundraising, equity, and impact in today’s philanthropic landscape. Show Highlights: In this episode, you’ll learn about… Why foundations must be held accountable to the communities they serve How the gift economy shifts the dynamic between donors and recipients What it will take for philanthropy to truly meet the demands of this moment Veritus Group is passionate about partnering with you and your organization throughout your fundraising journey. We believe that the key to transformative fundraising is a disciplined system and structure, trusted accountability, persistence, and a bit of fun. We specialize in mid-level fundraising, major gifts, and planned giving, helping our clients to develop compelling donor offers and to focus on strategic leadership and organizational development. You can learn more about how we can partner with you at www.VeritusGroup.com. Additional Resources: [Blog] What Is Your Mission? It’s Bigger Than You Think [White Paper] Understanding the Economics of the Major Gifts Pipeline [White Paper] Building a Culture of Philanthropy