The Social Change Career Podcast
How can technology catalyze social change—and what does it take to build an ecosystem that truly works for everyone? In this episode, Catalina Escobar Bravo, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of , shares her journey from engineer to nonprofit trailblazer—and the lessons she’s learned driving digital transformation across Latin America. Why Take a Listen Career Transformation: Learn how Catalina Escobar Bravo journeyed from mechanical engineering to social entrepreneurship, blending technical expertise and global experience to drive change in Latin America. Inclusive...
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How to Design Tech that Connects & Liberates: Insights from Jensine Larsen Delighted to be celebrating the 200th episode of the Social Change Career Podcast with , founder of and co-founder of . In this milestone episode, Jensine shares what it takes to build technology that centers connection, community, and justice. The conversation explores how she transformed early field reporting and a bold vision into , one of the longest-running global feminist digital networks, and why designing for generosity, peer support, and real human connection matters far more than chasing...
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What happens when innovation overlooks the very people it’s meant to benefit? In this episode, interviews , whose career spans startups, global donors, and hands-on development programs across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The episode explores what it takes to drive innovation that actually works—anchored in human realities, not just tech hype. Why Take a Listen Hear upfront stories from startup life, consulting, and leading international partnerships—not just buzzwords or theory. Get pragmatic advice for your career: tips for choosing grad programs, succeeding as a consultant,...
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Episode 7 of Season 15 of The Social Change Career Podcast explores what it really looks like to link digital nomads to locally led community impact—moving beyond one-off volunteering toward consistent, ethical engagement. Hosted by , the episode features , Director of Operations at , sharing lessons from the field on partnerships, power dynamics, and practical ways globally mobile professionals can contribute meaningfully wherever they live. Why take a listen: You want a practical framework for responsible giving-back as a digital nomad—time, skills, and money aligned to local...
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Episode 6, Season 15 starts the 2026 season of the Social Change Career Podcast with Juanita Lopez Pelaez, a leading voice in regenerative leadership and climate adaptation. Host Craig Zelizer and Juanita unpack turning complexity into clarity in the fields of public policy, sustainability, and systems change—drawing on decades of hands-on experience from Colombia, Latin America, and beyond. Why Take a Listen: Follow her career journey from geology in Medellín to policy-making and leadership at , and advising on sustainability and ESGfor across South America. Explore the...
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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...
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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