Why Chris Simonsen Walked Away from $3B to Lead a Nonprofit—and Never Looked Back

In this inspiring episode of Hart and Hustle, we sit down with Chris Simonsen, CEO of Orangewood Foundation, who left a high-powered $3B corporate finance career to serve youth in the foster care system. Chris shares why he made the bold leap into nonprofit leadership, how Orangewood is innovating with AI, and what it truly takes to support young people overcoming trauma, homelessness, and trafficking. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job that lacks purpose, this episode will challenge and empower you to pursue work that matters.