001: My Father, Solomon. The Definition of Black Philanthropy
Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
Release Date: 06/12/2025
Episode 003: Take Control of Your Life & Raise More Money, with Steven Wallace
Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
How can we lead with love in a sector that often prioritizes metrics over impact? In this episode, I sit down with Steven Wallace, a master fundraiser and executive recruiter whose 28-year career in philanthropy has been defined by deep listening, authentic connection, and a relentless commitment to honoring the humanity of donors and colleagues alike. From his early days fundraising door-to-door as a child to leading multimillion-dollar campaigns at major institutions, Wallace shares how his approach to fundraising is rooted in service, empathy, and integrity. He reflects on the power of...
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002: Hella Dope, So Needed, and Back to Basics with C’Ardiss Gardner-Gleser
Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
What does it mean to show up authentically in philanthropic spaces that assure you that you’re not the right fit and that you just don’t get it? In this episode, I sit down with C’Ardiss Gardner Gleser, a philanthropic leader whose life journey—from teen mom to Yale graduate, from forklift operator to family philanthropy consultant and entrepreneur—embodies the relentlessness and brilliance of Black and African American leaders in philanthropy navigating systems that are often more complicated than they need to be. Gardner Gleser shares how her lived experience—not just her...
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001: My Father, Solomon. The Definition of Black Philanthropy
Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
Losing a parent reshapes the way we see the world, and for me, the passing of my father, Solomon Neal Jackson III, profoundly influenced my perception of giving. His legacy of kindness and generosity, often expressed through his open door and legendary gumbo, taught me that philanthropy is far more than institutional frameworks. It’s about community and love. My journey through Black philanthropy has been illuminated by these personal stories and conversations with leaders like Tony Simmons, who exemplify the timeless tradition of Black people supporting one another. The essence of Black...
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Welcome to Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
Black Philanthropy: Our Stories
"Black Philanthropy: Our Stories" explores the untold stories of professionals and philanthropists dedicated to black philanthropy. Join our host and award-winning storyteller, Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv, as she interviews black leaders in philanthropy across the U.S. Each episode, features an interview with a trailblazer, like the foundation leader who has allocated over $90 million in grants to nonprofits, or the entrepreneur who teaches middle-class, black families how to start their own family foundations. Whether you're a philanthropist, or whether you’re a part of a foundation,...
info_outlineLosing a parent reshapes the way we see the world, and for me, the passing of my father, Solomon Neal Jackson III, profoundly influenced my perception of giving. His legacy of kindness and generosity, often expressed through his open door and legendary gumbo, taught me that philanthropy is far more than institutional frameworks. It’s about community and love.
My journey through Black philanthropy has been illuminated by these personal stories and conversations with leaders like Tony Simmons, who exemplify the timeless tradition of Black people supporting one another.
The essence of Black philanthropy is deeply rooted in our history and culture, harkening back to our resilience from the era of slavery to the present day. As a filmmaker with nearly 15 years of experience in the sector of philanthropy, I've navigated spaces where Black voices are rare, determined to amplify the stories and contributions of Black leaders in philanthropy. Remembering my father and the remarkable women in my family, Mildred Simuel and Louise Murray Jackson, I celebrate the strength that has shaped my journey and highlight the importance of mutual support within our community.
Creating a future filled with hope requires us to engage in honest conversations and embrace the dynamic nature of Black philanthropy. We are, indeed, building an airplane while it’s in the air, crafting spaces where respect and courage thrive. Through Black Philanthropy: Our Stories, our goal is to spark inspiration and counter the fears of the future, positioning philanthropy as a beacon that guides us toward positive change.
Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, empowered by the strength of our heritage and a vision for a better tomorrow.
In this episode, you will hear:
- Michelle’s journey into Black philanthropy, influenced by the legacy of her father, Solomon Neal Jackson III
- The essence of Black philanthropy, rooted in cultural and historical mutual support
- Honoring the remarkable women in Michelle’s family and their influence on her philanthropic path
- The rarity of Black voices in the philanthropic sector and the importance of amplifying them
- The evolving nature of Black philanthropy and the importance of fostering hope and courage
- The role personal loss plays in understanding and practicing philanthropy
- Creating a space for Black leaders to share their stories and inspire change
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Episode Credits
Produced by Simuel + Murray and Emerald City Productions