The Caring Economy with Toby Usnik
by Toby Usnik
Looking for purpose-driven career or business advice? Want to match your personal brand with a values-aligned organization? The Caring Economy is your destination. Join us weekly for insightful discussions with influential leaders sharing how they balance purpose, profit, and legacy in today's challenging business landscape. Topics range from corporate social responsibility to brand stewardship and beyond.Discover how to transform your career or business through caring principles. Engage with us on LinkedIn (Toby Usnik) and Twitter (@Tusnik) using #TheCaringEconomy.
Episodes
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The Ocean Is Not Too Big to Fix: Hope May Be Our Most Powerful Climate Tool With Gaelin Rosenwaks
What does it take to turn a lifelong curiosity into a career dedicated to protecting our planet? In this episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik welcomes Galen Rosenwaks, marine scientist, explorer, photographer, filmmaker, and founder of Global Ocean Exploration, for an inspiring...
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The Research We Can’t Afford to Stop: A Conversation With Kyle Clifford
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik speaks with Kyle Clifford, CEO of amfAR, about HIV research, philanthropy, leadership, and the changing funding landscape for medical science. Kyle is the first amfAR CEO to be openly living with HIV, bringing a deeply personal perspective to an...
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Jamie Alcroft, Organ Donation, and the Part of the Healthcare Conversation That Still Depends on Public Trust
In this episode of The Caring Economy, I speak with comedian, writer, and organ donation advocate Jamie Alcroft about the life that led him from comedy stages to transplant advocacy. Known for his years as part of the comedy duo Mack and Jamie, Jamie reflects on his career in entertainment, his...
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Why Hazel Ann Felder Is Paying Attention to the Messy Middle
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Hazel Ann Felder, a Gen Z storyteller and strategist whose work bridges fashion, business, and social impact. Hazel shares how being adopted from China and growing up across the U.S., Singapore, and the U.K. shaped her sense of...
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Laura Turner on Financial Security, First-Gen Students, and the Pressure Points Showing Up in 2026
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Laura Turner, Vice President and Head of Community Impact at TIAA, for a conversation about financial security, first-generation student support, and what community impact looks like inside a large institution. Laura reflects on her...
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What Suzanne Currie Sees in Young People That Institutions Often Miss
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik speaks with Suzanne Curie, CEO of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award USA, about what young people actually need in order to build confidence, direction, and a sense of responsibility in the world. Suzanne reflects on her own path from…
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Darlene Goins, on Funding Decisions That Don’t Make Headlines
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Darlene Goins, President of the Wells Fargo Foundation.The conversation focuses on housing affordability, access to banking, and how philanthropy operates inside a large financial institution. Darlene talks about her background in...
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What If Cancer Survivors Were Organized as Power, Not Just Stories?Conversation with Matthew Zachary
What happens when survivorship turns into strategy? In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Matthew Zachary—30-year brain cancer survivor, founder of Stupid Cancer, and one of the most unfiltered voices in American healthcare. Matthew shares how a cancer diagnosis at 21...
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Food, Care, and the Rebellion Against a Broken System with Laura Pensiero
What if food were treated as care, not convenience? In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Laura Pensiero, a registered dietitian, chef, and leading voice in the Food Is Medicine movement, to unpack how nutrition quietly shapes nearly every outcome we care about, from long-term...
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Raising Humans, Not Expectations: Conversations with Leland “Lucky” Vittert
What does it take to build resilience when the world isn’t built for you? In this episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with veteran journalist and NewsNation anchor Leland “Lucky” Vittert to talk about his deeply personal new memoir, Born Lucky: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful...
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Faith, Identity, and Public Trust with Father Patrick Ryan
Toby Usnik speaks with Father Patrick Ryan about what leadership looks like when institutions face pressure. Drawing from his childhood in a working-class Staten Island neighborhood, Father Ryan shares how community care shaped his early ideas about service. Together, he and Toby explore themes...
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The Art of Listening Without Ego: Bruce Cohen on Storytelling and Democracy
How do we tell stories that bring people together when everything else is pushing us apart? Oscar and Tony-winning producer Bruce Cohen, whose credits include American Beauty, Milk, Silver Linings Playbook, and Big Fish, joins The Caring Economy to talk about storytelling as an act of public...
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From Kerala to Caterpillar: Asha Varghese on Building Resilience That Lasts
In today’s world of polarization, climate disruption, and rapid digital change, resilience is everything. On this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Asha Varghese, President of the Caterpillar Foundation and Head of CSR at Caterpillar. Asha reflects on her journey from Kerala, India,...
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Seeds of Resilience: Cary Fowler on Food Security in a Changing World
How do we secure the future of food in an age of climate chaos? In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Dr. Cary Fowler — co-recipient of the 2024 World Food Prize and the driving force behind the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. From his roots in the Civil Rights movement to his…
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Meeting the Moment: How Laura Washington Heals Fractures in Our Democracy
In this episode of The Caring Economy, we have a wide-ranging discussion with Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley President & CEO Laura Washington, who draws on her decades of experience to explore the vital role of community, local philanthropy, and collective care have in our society.…
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Checkmate or Check Yourself? Balancing Tech and Intuition
🎙 The Caring Economy welcomes chess educator and lifelong player Jon Rigai to explore what the game of chess can teach us about navigating an AI-driven world. From training tournament players to helping 900-rated beginners find their stride, Jon’s philosophy is rooted in the power of slow,...
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Veterans Don’t Want Handouts, They Want Hires: Conversation with Ross Dickman
Ross Dickman knows what it means to serve—with intention, with purpose, and with impact. As a U.S. Army veteran and now CEO of Hire Heroes USA, Ross is reimagining the transition from military to civilian life and building career pathways that uplift veterans, military spouses, and people with...
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Connected for Good: John-Michael Cortez on Digital Equity and the Future of Broadband Access
In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with John-Michael Cortez, Head of Government and Community Affairs at GFiber (Google Fiber). With experience spanning local government, economic development, and grassroots community organizing, John-Michael shares why broadband access is no…
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The Fabric of Truth: How Forensics Is Disrupting Fashion’s Supply Chain with MeiLin Wan
How do you build trust in a world where proof matters more than promises? In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with MeiLin Wan, VP at GenuTrace, to explore how DNA technology is revolutionizing transparency in fashion, agriculture, and global supply chains. From verifying organic...
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Not Just a Crypto Mom: Why Hester Peirce is the Voice of Reason in a Digital Age
What happens when a financial regulator becomes one of the most thoughtful advocates for innovation? In this episode of The Caring Economy, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce—widely known as “Crypto Mom”—opens up about her unlikely journey from small-town Ohio to the Securities and Exchange…
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What We Lose If We Let Go: Walter Dabney on Parks & Public Ownership
What We Lose If We Let Go: A Conversation with Walter Dabney On this episode of The Caring Economy, we speak with Walter Dabney, former National Park Service superintendent and lifelong public lands advocate, about the urgent need to protect America's natural heritage. With decades of experience...
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How RAISEFashion is Sewing Justice into the Seams of the Industry: Conversation with Felita Harris
n this episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with Felita Harris, Executive Director and Co-Founder of RAISEFashion, to explore how she’s transforming the fashion industry into a more inclusive, equitable space for BIPOC creatives and professionals. With over 25 years of...
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What Happens When You Give a Damn: Cox Enterprises' Approach to Real Change
In this episode of The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Maury Wolfe, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Social Impact for Cox Enterprises, to explore how a century-old company is doubling down on impact in a modern world. From bold climate commitments to long-term...
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The Myth of the ‘Other’: Homelessness and the Humanity We Share with Dawn Pinnock
In this powerful episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik speaks with Dawn Pinnock, President & CEO of the Center for Urban Community Services (CUCS). As the first woman and first person of color to lead CUCS, Dawn shares her bold vision for addressing homelessness through integrated care,...
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Can Capitalism Care? A Conversation with R. Adam Smith on Family Wealth
n this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with R. Adam Smith—seasoned investor, family office advisor, and legacy strategist—to explore how wealth, legacy, and leadership are being redefined for a new generation. Adam brings decades of experience working with founders, families, and...
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AmeriCorps & The Future of Work: Conversation with Michael Smith
In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Michael D. Smith, CEO of AmeriCorps, to explore how national service is shaping the future of leadership, social impact, and civic engagement. With over 200,000 AmeriCorps members serving across 40,000+ communities, the organization is...
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Power Plays: How Renee Wittemyer is Flipping the Script on Gender Equity
The data is clear: when women thrive, economies flourish. But are we really putting our money where our values are? In this powerful episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Renee Wittemyer, VP of Program & Strategy at Pivotal Ventures, the Melinda French Gates-backed organization…
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Brewing a Better Future—Bob Stiller on Purpose-Driven Business
What if corporate success wasn’t just about profit but about creating a positive impact on the world? Bob Stiller,founder of Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, built a billion-dollar brand while pioneeringcorporate social responsibility (CSR). In this episode ofThe Caring Economy, Bob shares how he...
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The New ROI: Visa Foundation & Graham McMillan on Impact Investing
How do we redefine ROI in today’s world? In this episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Graham McMillan, President of the Visa Foundation, to explore how corporate philanthropy and sustainable investments are reshaping the business landscape. Visa Foundation is at the forefront of...
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Bridging the Divide in 2025—A Conversation with Paul Solman
Join us on the latest episode of The Caring Economy as we sit down with Paul Solman, the celebrated PBS NewsHour correspondent and co-founder of the American Exchange Project. With a career spanning five decades, Paul has been a beacon of curiosity, understanding, and storytelling. In this…
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Gymnastics, Grit, and Giving Back: Wendy Hilliard’s Inspiring Journey
Step into the inspiring world of Wendy Hilliard, a trailblazing gymnast and the first Black rhythmic gymnast to represent the U.S. on the global stage. Wendy’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a profound commitment to making gymnastics—and opportunity—accessible to all. In this...
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The Ripple Effect of Care: Scott Jackson’s Vision for Impact
In this episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with Scott Jackson, a visionary leader in global development and the President and CEO of Global Impact. With decades of experience addressing some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges, Scott shares insights into the...
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Granting Change: Sam Caplan on Tech, AI, and Empowering Nonprofits
In this episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with Sam Caplan, a visionary leader at the intersection of technology and social impact. Sam shares his inspiring journey—from his unexpected beginnings as a poet to his influential work driving innovation in the nonprofit sector.…
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A New Chapter for Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors with Latanya Mapp
This week on The Caring Economy, Toby Usnik sits down with Latanya Mapp, President and CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors and author of The Everyday Feminist. With a career spanning continents and causes, Latanya has led efforts with the UN, Planned Parenthood Global, and grassroots women’s...
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Rewriting the Rules of College Success: Adam Weinberg’s Game-Changing Leadership at Denison University
In this thought-provoking episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik is joined by Adam Weinberg, President of Denison University. Adam is a trailblazer in higher education, pushing the boundaries of what a liberal arts college can achieve in the 21st century. Under his leadership, Denison has...
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Why Compassion Matters: Lessons from Dave Woodruff on The Caring Economy
In this powerful episode of The Caring Economy podcast, host Toby Usnik welcomes Dave Woodruff, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of the Bob Woodruff Foundation. Join us as we explore Dave’s incredible journey from supporting his brother, Bob Woodruff, through a life-altering injury to…
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Beyond the House of Lords: Baron Loomba’s Journey to Empower Millions
In this powerful episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with Baron Raj Loomba, a visionary philanthropist, entrepreneur, and member of the UK's House of Lords. Baron Loomba shares his deeply personal story of growing up in India, losing his father at a young age, and witnessing...
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Mission Possible: Caitlin Dodge on Mixing Creativity with Social Good
In this inspiring episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Caitlin Dodge, a creative leader passionate about turning bold ideas into impactful, purpose-driven marketing. With a career dedicated to blending innovation with social good, Caitlin shares her insights on the future of marketing,...
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Finding Comfort in Grief: Lynne Hughes' Mission to Heal Hearts at Comfort Zone Camp
In this heartfelt episode of The Caring Economy, we sit down with Lynne Hughes, the inspiring founder and CEO of Comfort Zone Camp (CZC). By the age of 12, Lynne had tragically lost both of her parents, leaving her to navigate the complex world of grief as a child. But out of her personal loss…
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A Life of Curiosity: Esther Dyson on Tech, Healthcare, and Humanity
In this thought-provoking episode of The Caring Economy, host Toby Usnik sits down with the legendary Esther Dyson—journalist, investor, and visionary. Esther's career spans decades of innovation, from shaping the early tech world to her current passion for preventive healthcare. Join us as we…
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Amy Freitag: Weaving New York’s Future with Threads of Community and Generosity
Join us in this inspiring episode of The Caring Economy as we sit down with Amy Freitag, a dynamic leader at the helm of the New York Community Trust. Amy shares her fascinating journey from her roots in Akron, Ohio, to becoming a key figure in New York's philanthropic landscape. With over 100...
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Small Business, Big Impact: How Lynette Bell Drives Economic Growth
Join us for an inspiring episode of The Caring Economy as host Toby Usnik interviews Lynette Bell, President of the Truist Foundation. With a focus on strategic philanthropy, economic mobility, and community development, Lynette shares her journey from a banking career to leading initiatives that...
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Legal Eagle: Rebecca Williford’s Journey in Disability Rights
Welcome to The Caring Economy with your host Toby Usnik. In our latest episode, we're honored to feature Rebecca Williford, the President and CEO of Disability Rights Advocates (DRA), the nation's leading nonprofit legal center focused on disability rights impact litigation. Rebecca shares her...
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Resurrecting Education: Father Leahy’s Battle to Rebuild St. Benedict’s
Father Edwin Leahy’s journey is a testament to commitment, resilience, and transformative leadership. He became the 23rd Headmaster of St. Benedict’s Prep in 1972, a role he assumed at the age of 26. Under his guidance, the school reopened its doors after a brief closure, starting with just 89...
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Heartfelt Leadership: Joan Steinberg’s Action for Youth Mental Health
Joan Steinberg’s journey is one of passion and purpose. Starting her career in public relations and the nonprofit sector, Joan found her true calling at Morgan Stanley, where she has been making a significant impact for over two decades. With a focus on strategic philanthropic efforts, Joan has...
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Diversity Maven: Traci Sanders’ Expert Approach at Verizon
Hey there, friends! I’m Toby Usnik, and I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of The Caring Economy with you. Today, we have the privilege of chatting with Traci Sanders, the incredible VP-Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Verizon. Traci is a true pioneer in fostering an...
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Future-Proof Your Brand: Lessons in Digital Mastery from Vladimir Botsvadze
Join host Toby Usnik on The Caring Economy as he sits down with Vladimir Botsvadze, a luminary in digital transformation and marketing. In this episode, Vladimir shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in Georgia to becoming a globally recognized thought leader and influencer. Vladimir,...
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Frontlines to Law Lines: Lindsey Savage's Mission for Military Spouse Lawyers
Join us on this enlightening episode of "The Caring Economy," where we dive into the remarkable journey of Lindsey Savage, a senior vice president at Blackstone and a staunch advocate for military spouses in the legal profession. Discover how Lindsay is transforming the landscape for military...
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From Print to Pixels: A Conversation with Newsweek's Dr. Dev Pragad on Media Transformation
In this enlightening episode of The Caring Economy, join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Dr. Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek. Discover how a background in technology and academia fueled his innovative approach to revitalizing one of the world's most storied media brands. Dr. Pragad…
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Ink and Judgment: Fabio Bertoni on Steering The New Yorker's Legal Compass
Gain valuable advice from Fabio on building a successful career in media law, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and ethical decision-making. Join us on Spotify for a riveting conversation with Fabio Bertoni, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role legal...
About this show
Looking for purpose-driven career or business advice? Want to match your personal brand with a values-aligned organization? The Caring Economy is your destination. Join us weekly for insightful discussions with influential leaders sharing how they balance purpose, profit, and legacy in today's challenging business landscape. Topics range from corporate social responsibility to brand stewardship and beyond.Discover how to transform your career or business through caring principles. Engage with us on LinkedIn (Toby Usnik) and Twitter (@Tusnik) using #TheCaringEconomy.
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Toby Usnik
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