You Are A Philanthropist

In this episode, Jenn Klein interviews Michelle Highberg, co-founder of Just Gather Wellness, a nonprofit focused on improving mental wellness through digital detox, gratitude, nature, and the arts. Michelle shares how rising screen dependency and social disconnection inspired her mission to help youth and families reconnect with themselves and others. She discusses the power of gratitude, breathwork, and emotional regulation, and emphasizes that philanthropy is not about money—but about love, presence, and serving humanity. Listeners will leave inspired to cultivate inner peace, practice daily gratitude, and become instruments of positive change in their communities.

In this heartfelt and deeply compassionate episode, Jenn sits down with Allison Schaaf — Founder of Miscarriage Hope Desk, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women through pregnancy loss and fertility struggles. Allison opens up about her own journey with recurrent miscarriage, the loneliness and unanswered questions she faced, and how those painful experiences led her to create a place of evidence-based resources, community, and hope for others walking the same road. Together, we explore the power of storytelling and shared grief and how philanthropy can grow out of the hardest chapters of our lives. Whether you have personally experienced loss or love someone who has, this episode offers validation, comfort, and a reminder that no one should have to navigate this journey alone.You can find Miscarriage Hope Desk on their website www.miscarriagehopedesk.org, on instagram, Substack, and wherever you listen to your podcasts.Next steps with Jenn:Download my FREE Guide "The Busy Givers Guide to Feeling Better Fast" on my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.comPurchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/03juDIvJoin my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Email me: [email protected]

Start your day with purpose, peace, and generosity.In this short episode, Jenn guides you through powerful, heart-centered truths designed to ground you in who you are: a giver, a helper, a light in your community. These affirmations will help you:✨ Begin the morning with clarity and calm✨ Connect to your calling as a philanthropist next door✨ Release pressure and step into joy✨ Invite abundance, gratitude, and love into your day✨ Remember how your small acts create a ripple effect of good Take a deep breath.Let these words settle into your heart.You were made to give and live well — and this is your reminder. Press play and carry this generosity with you today.

Today, Giving is Selfish is celebrating its two-year anniversary  — and the ripple effect has stretched farther than I ever imagined, reaching readers in the U.S., Canada, Germany, Australia, and The Netherlands.In this special anniversary episode, I:📖 Read an excerpt from the book — my personal story of growing up around generosity💬 Share powerful reviews from readers who’ve felt its impact🌱 Reflect on how giving can fill us up instead of draining us🎁 Announce a special anniversary sale on the book through the end of the monthThis book is for the everyday philanthropist — the parent, volunteer, nonprofit leader, caregiver, or community builder — who gives so much of themselves and deserves to feel the joy that comes from living generously.🎧 Listen in, celebrate with me, and help spread the ripple effect of good.Next steps:Download my FREE Guide "The Busy Givers Guide to Feeling Better Fast" on my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.comPurchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/03juDIvJoin my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Email me: [email protected]

In this inspiring conversation, Jenn sits down with Heidi Johnson, Founder of Charity Matters — a platform amplifying the stories of everyday changemakers who are making a difference in their communities. Heidi shares how a personal loss became the catalyst for a movement that has inspired thousands. She talks about what drives people to give, the ripple effect of generosity, and how storytelling can be one of the most powerful tools for good.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Heidi turned pain into purpose through philanthropyWhy storytelling can transform the way we think about givingHow ordinary people can create extraordinary changeThe power of hope, resilience, and community impactHeidi reminds us that philanthropy starts with one person deciding to make a difference — and that person can be you.Next steps:Download my FREE Guide "The Busy Givers Guide to Feeling Better Fast" on my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.comPurchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/03juDIvJoin my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Email me: [email protected]

Starting fresh with Season 5, I’m back—and today I’m sharing why I stepped away, what’s ahead for the podcast, and why generosity matters now more than ever. In this episode, I talk about:What led to my pause and what I learned from itThe heart of You Are A Philanthropist and why it’s not changingUpcoming episodes you can look forward toHow small acts of kindness—like office baked goods—can lift heavy daysWhy generosity is part of healing in divided and difficult timesIf the world has felt heavy lately, this episode is a reminder that everyday generosity still creates ripples of hope.Next steps:Download my FREE Guide "The Busy Givers Guide to Feeling Better Fast" on my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.comPurchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/03juDIvJoin my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Email me: [email protected]

In this episode, we talk with Riri from the Reimagining Life Podcast. Riri is a disability advocate as a podcast host sharing stories of hope, resilience, and support. Tune in to hear about how Riri is making the world a better place through sharing stories and offering support to those who need to be uplifted.For more information on this episode, please go to my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcastCheck out Riri's favorite charities she recommends supporting: World Kitchen, UNICEF, and Special OlympicsWhat if you could change the world today without being drained of your time and energy? Next steps:Purchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/aIRhmM1Join my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Sign up for my free newsletter and go to my website for more details: www.youareaphilanthropist.comEmail me: [email protected]

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Jennifer Cunningham. Jennifer has led teams that have managed thousands of volunteers at Cornell and Lehigh Universities and personally volunteered at a dozen organizations in her life. Tune in to hear how Jennifer is making the world a better place through nonprofit leadership and volunteering in her community, too.For more information on this episode, please go to my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcastCheck out Jennifer's favorite charities she recommends supporting: Rotary International and CAT-Coalition for Appropriate Transportation.What if you could change the world today without being drained of your time and energy? Next steps:Purchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/aIRhmM1Join my community of philanthropists at jennklein.substack.comGet on my calendar to for a one-hour coaching call: https://calendly.com/youareaphilanthropist/Sign up for my free newsletter and go to my website for more details: www.youareaphilanthropist.comEmail me: [email protected]

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Jonathan Jacobs. Jonathan (JJ) is the Founder and Executive Director of Rawkstars, a nonprofit that teaches life skills through music. Tune in to hear how JJ is making the world a better place by sharing his passion for music with others.Jonathan Jacobs (JJ) says, "The Greater Good through social impact programming, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and volunteerism is my life’s work. Combining the skills and education I’ve accumulated through careers in music, technology, business, creative production, consulting and nonprofit leadership, Rawkstars is a reflection of my own life story. My approach never appeared in a five-year plan, corporate presentation or taught to me in books. It arrived authentically out of necessity, hard work and desire. Through my own lived experience."For more information on Rawkstars, go to www.rawkstars.orgWhat if you could change the world today without being drained of your time and energy? Purchase my book "Giving is Selfish" on Amazon today: https://a.co/d/aIRhmM1Sign up for my free newsletter and go to my website for more details: www.youareaphilanthropist.com

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Will Murley. Will Murley is a former Catholic missionary now in finance. Tune in to hear how Will is making the world a better place by sharing his Christian-values investing. For full episode show notes, please go to my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, host Jenn Klein shares her first podcast guest recording going back to 2020. Raising Your Inner Voice was a live radio show focused on how we can be better for our neighbors and ourselves. Tune in to hear Jenn share her enthusiasm for giving of your time, talent and treasure and how it boomerangs back to you.

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami. Dr. Ana is the Founder and Executive Director of the Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC), a nonprofit (501c3) organization located in the City of Santa Ana and founded in the year 2000. Tune in to hear how Dr. Ana is making the world a better place through giving her time, energy, and passion for children's therapeutic art programming.For full episode show notes, please go to my website at www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Erin Cummings. Erin is an entrepreneur, having founded a Yoga business, currently studying for her M.S. in entrepreneurship, and created two funds at Wichita State University for future business owners. Tune in to hear how Erin is making the world a better place through giving her time, energy, passion, and dollars. For show notes and details on how to reach Erin, go to www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Megan Whitney. Since burning out a decade ago, her mission has been preventing the same exhaustion for other women working in nonprofits. She leads a mindfulness community and coaches changemakers to build peaceful, healthy lives — for themselves and others. At Feeding America, Megan has spent the past seven years fighting hunger as a fundraiser, fundraising consultant, and meditation teacher. Tune in to hear how Megan is making the world a better place and her passion for mindfulness. For show notes and details on how to reach Megan, go to www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk with philanthropist Dr. Kirk Adams. Kirk became blind around age 5 and grew up to be resilient and compassionate to those who are also affected by blindness. He went on to became the Past President of the Board and CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind and has since become a consultant in his own practice called Innovative Impact. Tune in to hear how Kirk is making the world a better place and works to have it more equitable and inclusive. For show notes and details on how to reach Kirk, go to www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode we talk to Sonya Perez-Lauterbach. Sonya is a Certified Coach, Change Expert, and creator of Leadership Atlas - a holistic approach to leadership development that integrates the mental, emotional, and embodied aspects of leading. Tune in to how she talks about her family, global travel, and Latina culture in influencing who she is today and how she extends generosity to her coaching clients. For episode show notes and details on how to reach Sonya, go to www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk with Jenna Hermans. Jenna is Co-founder and COO of Be Courageous a transformation agency, a busy mom of 4, a high-performance coach, and the author of Chaos to Calm: 5 Ways Busy Parents Can Break Free From Overwhelm. Tune in to hear her wisdom on the dynamic power of giving and receiving and how you can make a difference with small steps in helping others (and don’t forget to practice self-care). 

In this episode, we talk to Michelle Valiukenas. Michelle is a dedicated mom, storyteller, and advocate. She is the Co-founder of the Collette Louise Tisdahl Foundation, whose mission it is to improve outcomes of pregnancy, prematurity, and infancy as well as aid in the grieving process through financial assistance, education and advocacy. Tune in to learn about what she says about founding a nonprofit and how creating this foundation was part of her own healing journey after the loss of her daughter Colette.Learn more about her organization, here: https://colettelouise.com/

In this episode, we talk to Glen Carnahan.  Glen is on the board of the Littleton Youth Soccer Club where he has volunteered the past 5 years. Listen in to hear what he has to say about his love of giving and the support he gets from his family in order to give back. 

In this episode, we talk to Natalie Silverstein. Natalie is an author, speaker, award-winning podcast host, nonprofit founder and passionate advocate for family and youth service. Hear Natalie’s thoughts on how you can make a difference in the world and how being kind can cause a ripple effect you don’t even know about. Natalie’s website: https://simpleactsguide.com/

In this episode, we talk with Eric Goodman, President and CEO of MVS, Inc. Eric also serves on the boards of Ronald McDonald House Charities, Junior Achievement, and more. Learn how Eric got started in philanthropy and how he found his purpose.For episode show notes, visit: www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk to Holly Morrell, the Founder and CEO of Heartfelt. Heartfelt provides cardiac screening in order to save lives from preventable tragedies due to Sudden Cardiac Death. Learn how Holly got started, who inspired her to do this important work, and what her vision is for making the world a better place. For more information on Heartfelt and to contact Holly, go to www.heartfeltscreening.org. For additional show notes, go too www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode we talk to Leoma Gilley. Leoma is a retired Wycliff Bible Translator. Tune in to hear more about what she has to say about her work translating the Bible in Sudan, where she lived for 20 years. 

In this episode, I’m sharing a podcast interview I had on the Lead With Heart podcast. The host, Haley Cooper, is a Certified Fundraising Executive, Certified Stress Management Coach, and EmC Trainer. We talk about my book, work-life balance, health and wellness, and the reason why people give back.How to find Haley: Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-cooper-cfreWebsite: https://thesavvyfundraiser.com/

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Vinnie Cappetta. Vinnie is a Counselor in Residence at Crossroads Community Church and at Check Your Compass counseling ministry. Listen in to hear how he gives back to his church, as a counselor, and as the leader of Positive Intelligence coaching groups.For full episode show notes and resources go to: www.youareaphilanthropist.com/podcast

In this episode, we talk with Richard Ward. Richard is a Certified Financial Planner and philanthropist. Listen in to hear how he has learned through speaking with his clients about how finding a richer life is so much more rewarding than growing your net worth.

In this episode, we talk with Queen Allotey-Pappoe. Queen is a Sustainable Fashion Designer at Queen Adeline. Tune in to hear more about why she is passionate about sustainable and ethical design. For show notes, visit: www.youareaphilanthropist.com

In this episode, we talk with Tim Wilson. Tim is the inaugural Prospect Management and Research Manager at Weber State University. He is also a host of the philanthropy webcast, “People in Fundraising.” Tune in to hear more about why he loves his career in fundraising and what he’s learned through interviewing fundraisers. For show notes, visit: www.youareaphilanthropist.com

In this episode, we talk with Chris McLaughlin. Chris is the Founder and Executive Director of the Animal Rescue Front. Tune in to hear more about the rescue mission for dogs and cats that she drove down south for after Hurricane Katrina and how it changed her life. For show notes, visit: www.youareaphilanthropist.com

In this episode, we talk with Chris Baiocchi who is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), nonprofit consultant, and was awarded Fundraiser of the Year from the Orange County Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Chris has been in the nonprofit sector for almost 25 years. He shares his advice for people who want to get into a fundraising career and to those who are hesitant to take that first step in reaching out to volunteer.

In this episode, we talk with Mark Chamberlin. Mark spent his career in high-tech traveling the world for companies such as Cisco and PolyCom. Today, Mark calls himself a “give back advocate.” He is a volunteer for several nonprofits and finds if fun and rewarding for so many reasons. Tune-in to learn why you should join us and become a “give back advocate”, too!

In this episode, we talk with Danielle Judd. Danielle is the Founder of FarmHouse Rescue, a virtual farm and workable farm for adults with special needs and children in hospitals. Danielle shares that she had a near-death experience that landed her in the hospital for three months, which she survived from and then swore to God to dedicate her life to others. Today, she works around the clock to build a community for rescued animals and adults and children who need the hope and love that farm animals can provide. Tune-in to hear about how you can get involved or be inspired to make a change in your own community.

In this episode, Jenn talks to Haley Cooper who is a Certified Fundraising Executive, mom of three, nonprofit founder, and currently a nonprofit consultant. Haley has devoted her life and career to the service of others, particularly to children. Listen in to learn more about how she has supported the most vulnerable at home, in her community, and across the world.

In this episode, we talk to Kevin Thai. Kevin is a former teacher of international students who taught in Korea for five years, young father, and full-time professional photographer. Through his photography business, he has been taking headshots for the unemployed for the last three years. He is also active as a board member of his local YMCA and donates time to his neighborhood warming shelter. Listen to this inspiring message on how just getting started by donating 1-2 hours of your time a month can make a difference in the life of at least one person.

In this episode, Daphne Birdsinger shares how she came to have a relationship with her local Ronald McDonald House. She is thankful to be able to utilize their services as well as give back seven years after her oldest son was in the NICU. Daphne is a mom of three, special needs mom to her son Clifford, former teacher, and wellness enthusiast. Listen to this inspiring philanthropist about her love for her son and all families experiencing hardship.

In this episode, we talk with Kevin Bjerke who makes time for supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and as a Big Brother. He is a proud father of two girls and has been married 31 years to his high school sweetheart. Kevin also served in the first Gulf War with the United State Marine Corp. He shares the way he stays positive as he is currently battling stage IV Bile Duct Cancer. He is currently writing a book about his life, which will be released in January 2023. Listen to this inspiring episode to learn how you can make a difference no matter what your circumstances are!

Host Jenn Klein is excited to start a new season of the "You Are A Philanthropist" Podcast and shares what she's been up to since the end of season 2.

In this episode, we talk with MaryFran Mitrano who has spent a 30-year career in nonprofits. She spent many years at Harvard in fundraising then transitioned to her local arts nonprofit in her town. We chat about the challenges and ups-and-downs of fundraising and nonprofits. She gives insight into why we shouldn’t be afraid to fund-raise. We discuss the generosity of Americans and how heart-warming it is about our tradition of philanthropy, unlike any country in the world.

In this episode, we learn from the life lessons of Evy Amato. Evy is a spiritual alignment coach for women to reconnect with their truest selves so they can live a life on purpose. She is also a Board Certified Music Therapist, who helped people in hospice care for their end of life journey. We talk about how women need support in listening to their inner selves in order to both take care of themselves and others. Evy’s heart for supporting women and their spiritual care abounds. She invites us to listen to our intuition in order to lead a life of intention. This episode will guide you on your journey to your best self.

Erin has a passion for The Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Elks Lodges bring so much more to their communities than just a building, golf course or pool. They are places where neighbors come together, families share meals, and children grow up. Erin has been running charity programs for years for her local lodge and it brings her great joy. Particularly at the end of the year, when she can provide warm winter clothing to children for the holidays raised from the tremendous support of the community. Erin encourages us to be involved in The Elks to meet friends, plug into our communities, and to serve others. Often times, Elks Lodges have bars to add jovial fun to the community-building and advocacy of the members. Listen in to hear how rewarding it is to volunteer.

In this episode, we talk with Jessi Znoski who is a biologist, administrator and the event coordinate for a Women in Philanthropy Summit at Longwood University. Jessi naturally has a positive attitude and that spills into her work life. The Women in Philanthropy Summit was a way for alumni to encourage students to pursue their passions to make the world a better place. Each student created their own mission statement and brainstormed what their passions are that they can do. Jessi credits her upbringing for giving her empathy for the local public school system, of which she is a part of a group of parents improving their community. Her best advice is to listen to people, be open-minded and listen to your inner voice. She also doesn’t want to you neglect your own mental health, because this world is a struggle especially in a pandemic! Listen more to what she advises us to do.

In this episode, we talk with Howie Hutchison who is the Executive Director at HopeKids Colorado. HopeKids in a nonprofit started originally in Arizona to create community for families with a child with a life-threatening condition. Howie has a small staff, but a huge volunteer base. He loves the power of a team and seeing people passionate about helping the hundreds of families he serves. Not originally a fan of fundraising, he has learned to be an advocate for what he calls “activating generosity.” Howie has a personal upcoming 30-mile run/walk that you can follow him on Instagram and Facebook to raise awareness of his nonprofit on October 22. Follow his journey on social media and consider what you can do to support this great organization!

In this episode, we talk with Ken Holderman who is a pastor to missionaries mainly in Latin America and the Canary Islands. He credits his wife for his focus on giving back to others as well as his faith in Jesus Christ. Ken and his wife, Becky, were missionaries in Venezuela and the Canary Islands. When they came home, they realized there was so much struggles with being a missionary. Not only was it hard economically, but it was hard emotionally due to the distance from a support system and cross-cultural differences. They are passionate about the mental health of the missionaries they serve through Globe International. Listen to this episode to learn how difficult it can be to live a life of service to others.

In this episode, we talk with Chris Gilbert who pursues his passion of helping others start their own health and beauty business. Chris inspires his team by working on himself relentlessly. He is a voracious reader, reflective, and focuses on having a growth mindset. He credits his wife, parents, and Jesus as inspiration for his career which brought him from a teacher, to a lacrosse coach, to a youth minister, and now serving his network marketing team as a husband-and-wife duo. Chris is honest that it’s a fight within all of us to chose to give. He believes if we all desired to give to others and acted on those desires then we would solve the worlds problems.

In this episode, we talk with Marc Rosenblum who has raised thousands of dollars running for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Marc is passionate about finding a cure for cancer. Running the Boston Marathon as a charity runner allows him to raise awareness of the good work of Dana-Farber and the urgency to support such a great charity. The impact his fundraising efforts are having on others and the legacy he realizes he is leaving as a result is invaluable. As he reflects on his 50th birthday this year, he’s made an aspirational goal to raise $50,000 by the start of the race on October 11th. Listen to this episode to help him reach his goal.

In this season finale, Jenn recaps her favorite clips from season 1 of the "You Are A Philanthropist" Podcast. Tune in for Jenn's countdown of her top 5 favorite lessons from season 1.

Jay Foss is radio and podcast host of Raising Your Inner Voice. His show highlights people doing exceptional work in the world through work, volunteerism, activism, and even simple self-reflection. Jay is passionate about having better conversations, seeing the good in others, and actively listening to those with different opinions. His career in radio has positioned him to grow where he is planted and sow seeds of good in the best way he knows how. He is a self-proclaimed cheerleader and typically his work as a wedding DJ and radio show producer puts him in support roles; however his new show brings him into the spotlight where he gets to facilitate conversations that cut through the noise of the negative news cycle.

Jason Dobbs-Hyer shares his joy of finding Christ many years go, enduring trials, and continuing to look for the good in all things. He has a passion for lifting others up through servant leadership. His source of joy and strength come from Jesus and he is intentional with the words he uses to lift others up, especially on social media. He practices being nonjudgmental, taking care of himself through proper nutrition and exercise, and sharing his love of Jesus with everyone he meets. Jason is filled with positive energy, which he undeniably explains is a result of the power of God through communion in prayer, worship, and reading the Bible. He talks about how power, control, and money are leading the world but servant leadership, like what Jesus did, is a way to “park the ego” and you indescribably benefit from seeing others shine and putting others first. He explains that it’s an act of power to be humble, which is not easy, but it allows God to transform your own heart. As he says, "You become who you are in servant leadership, and you become more comfortable and at peace with who you are, and that allows you to lift others up.”

Noah Chesnin shares a breadth of knowledge on ocean conservation. He’s spent time volunteering or working in several aquariums throughout the country since as a teenager in the ‘90s. He talks about his passion for ocean issues, including making individual changes, group efforts, and policies. Listeners can learn about why we all need to be supporting the ocean ranging from aesthetic purposes to public health reasons. Noah, an appropriate name for someone passionate about ocean issues, will spend a lifetime to help us all breathe easier, enjoy a dip in the ocean, and help us consume healthy protein from the ocean.

Ron Dudley is a man of faith who has learned great lessons throughout life from losing his mother and a young age to living his entire life in “the ghetto.” He has been selling the Street Sense Media Newspaper on the streets of Washington D.C. for 7 years and even published a book of his poetic rap lyrics. Ron is a man with little financial means, but because of his generous heart is a man rich in wisdom and goodwill. He shares his passion for sharing a smile, being non-judgmental, and building community wherever you are planted.