The Social Change Career Podcast
Navigating the World of Work in the Age of AI: Lessons from David Timis on the Social Change Career Podcast How do you build a future-proof social impact career when AI is transforming every aspect of work? In Season 15, Episode 5 of the Social Change Career Podcast, Craig Zelizer sat down with David Timis—AI and Future of Work Leader, Global Communications & Public Affairs Manager at Generation, and passionate champion for equitable workforce development—for one of our most timely and energizing episodes yet. Together, they explored what’s changing, what’s possible, and concrete...
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Ever wondered what it looks like to blend storytelling, journalism, and global development into a dynamic career? This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features Emma Smith, a freelance journalist whose bylines include , , and , interviewed by host Craig Zelizer. Emma shares her journey from Scottish classroom inspiration, through navigating Masters programs, to forging a unique path at the intersection of communications and impact. Why You Should Listen: Behind the Scenes of Global Development Journalism: Learn what it's really like to pitch stories, build a career in...
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En este episodio especial, Craig Zelizer conversa con Johana Hoyos, líder, docente e investigadora colombiana, sobre su inspiradora trayectoria en el desarrollo de proyectos de sostenibilidad, equidad e innovación social en algunos de los territorios más vulnerables del Sur Global. Johana comparte cómo su sensibilidad se ha convertido en su superpoder, permitiéndole conectar profundamente con las comunidades y catalizar cambios con un enfoque de triple impacto: social, ambiental y económico. Por qué deberías escuchar & lo que exploramos: Tras las huellas de una carrera de...
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Episode 2 of Season 15 dives into the fast-evolving world of social impact careers in emerging markets with —venture builder, impact investor, and innovator at Rippleworks. Hosted by Craig Zelizer, this conversation tracks Ann-Elise’s unique career journey from global studies and teaching in Bangkok to hands-on work scaling ventures across Africa and Latin America. Listen for practical insights on growing inclusive businesses, advancing financial inclusion, supporting women entrepreneurs, and navigating the realities of impact-driven work across complex environments. Why Take a Listen: ...
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Episode 1 of Season 15 features a conversation with , innovation and sustainability expert, partnership architect for People and Planet, and a dynamic bridge builder working across government, academia, nonprofits, and the private sector. Host explores Kajsa’s inspiring journey from international conflict studies to sustainability leadership, sharing honest advice and actionable steps for anyone interested in building a meaningful, resilient career in sustainability and social impact. Why Take a Listen & What You’ll Discover: Kajsa’s Global Career Rooted in Impact and...
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Why take a listen? If you’re serious about building a high-impact career at the intersection of public-private partnerships, diplomacy, and sustainable development—or just curious about what it takes to make real change happen—this episode is for you. Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with , a global leader with deep experience in shaping policy, building international partnerships, and delivering impact that lasts. From playing “bankers” as a child in Colombia to influencing sustainable development strategies across borders, Marcela’s story is both inspiring and practical for...
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Season 14, Episode 12 of the Social Change Career Podcast spotlights Natalia Uribe—architect, artist, and founder of Urban World Matters. From her creative roots in Medellín to delivering transformative urban projects on four continents, Natalia’s career is a story of purpose, resilience, and a commitment to empowering local communities and youth in the built environment. Why take a listen? Natalia shares honest reflections, practical tools, and visionary thinking for anyone passionate about cities and social change. If you care about creating better urban spaces, influencing local action...
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This episode features , an executive leader, innovator, coach, and Cambodian genocide survivor, sharing her extraordinary journey of building a career at the intersection of justice and healing. Drawing from over 20 years in labor rights, public health, civil rights, and organizational transformation, Hun opens up about personal resilience, the power of humanizing conflict, and practical strategies for meaningful impact in turbulent times. Why Take a Listen Hun’s story as a Cambodian genocide survivor and refugee—and how her lived experiences instilled a lifelong dedication...
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This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a thoughtful and practical conversation between Craig Zelizer and , founder of and the Philanthropy Network. Brad’s entry into fundraising was unplanned—driven by financial necessity—but evolved into a decades-long career advising institutions like , the Portland Museum of Art, Suffolk University, and the . In this episode, Brad shares hard-earned lessons on how to build a meaningful and sustainable career in philanthropy, even amid burnout, changing donor landscapes, and rising ethical questions. What the episode covers: • How...
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This episode of The Social Change Career Podcast features , a global finance expert with over 15 years of experience across sovereign debt, venture capital, and impact investing. Her career has taken her from rural Missouri to leading projects across Latin America and Asia—working in English, Mandarin, Spanish, and Portuguese. Bethany’s path challenges conventional ideas of what a finance career looks like and shows how language, agility, and purpose can shape meaningful work. Why Take a Listen Learn how a career can evolve through unexpected roles and geographic pivots—and how to...
info_outlineFinding Your Path to Purpose with Sowmya Ayyar
Take a listen to Episode 7, Season 13 of the Social Change Career Podcast, featuring Sowmya Ayyar, founder of the Praful Urja Charitable Foundation and Senior Research Scholar at the Malaviya Center for Peace Research. In this episode, Sowmya shares her inspiring journey of building a purpose-driven career, empowering communities with yoga, and exploring the role of spiritual women's communities in peacebuilding and diplomacy.
Why Take a Listen?
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Build a Purpose-Driven Career: Explore how to align your career with your values and passion for creating meaningful change.
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Wellbeing for Practitioners and Vulnerable Communities: Discover how yoga can support resilience and well-being in underserved populations.
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Explore Women's Role in Peacebuilding: Gain insights into Sowmya’s unique research on spiritual women's communities and their contributions to societal transformation.
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Navigate Career Crossroads: Hear practical advice on making career pivots and finding the right opportunities in social impact.
Bio
Sowmya Ayyar is a changemaker, founder of the Praful Urja Charitable Foundation, and Senior Research Scholar at the Malaviya Center for Peace Research at Banaras Hindu University. Her work focuses on empowering underserved communities through yoga and well-being practices, particularly addressing the needs of women, children, and trauma survivors. Sowmya’s research delves into the role of spiritual women's communities (yogini sanghas) in diplomacy and peacebuilding. She is also a poet, musician, and advocate for women's leadership and empowerment.
Key Resources from the Episode
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Praful Urja Charitable Foundation: Learn more about their yoga-based empowerment programs: Praful Urja
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United Religions Initiative: A global platform for interfaith cooperation: URI Website
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Masala Podcast: A podcast exploring South Asian culture and women's stories: Masala Podcast
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Let’s Talk Yoga Podcast: A resourceful podcast on yoga practices and insights: Let’s Talk Yoga
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