E1 S14: Building Impactful Careers Through Purpose-Driven Ventures
The Social Change Career Podcast
Release Date: 02/15/2025
The Social Change Career Podcast
In this episode, Craig Zelizer talks with , a Dutch social entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of multiple global movements including Dance for Life, , and . From organizing some of the largest public festivals in the Netherlands to driving emotional, community-rooted innovation for ocean protection, Ilco shares what it takes to build movements that not only spark change but sustain it. This conversation explores personal and planetary transformation, how movements scale, and why love—and not fear—is often the most powerful catalyst for action. Whether you're leading a social...
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In this episode, Dr. Craig Zelizer speaks with , a leader in industrial policy, gender equity, and international cooperation. From serving as Colombia’s Vice Minister of Business Development to designing the country’s first industrial policy in two decades, Soraya brings a rich, cross-sectoral perspective on how to build more inclusive and sustainable economies in the Global South. Based in Bogotá, with academic roots in Colombia, Italy, and India, Soraya shares how her experiences in government, academia, and diplomacy have shaped her career—and her deep commitment to bringing...
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Navigating a career in the ever-changing world of social impact work can be a wild ride, especially now. In this episode of the Social Change Career Podcast, we talk about how to manage with the crisis caused by the devastating and cruel cuts to USAID and other orgs. This session features four leading impact sector experts Caroline Ouwerkerk, Spencer Campbell, Julia Firestone and Craig Zelizer. Whether you're figuring out your next steps or trying to make the most of your current situation, this episode offers insights to help you breathe, plan, and act. Why listen to this...
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In this episode of the Social Change Career Podcast, Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with the inspiring . As a visionary leader and founder of impactful organizations like . and and serving as an , Yura shares their compelling journey of weaving together art, activism, and collective liberation to create lasting social impact. Why You Should Listen: Art as Activism: Discover how Yura's work with Liberate Inc. uses the arts to advance racial, social, and climate justice. Learn about their groundbreaking initiatives that empower BIPOC creatives through grants, education, and organizing efforts. ...
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Join us for Season 14, Episode 4 of the Social Change Career Podcast, featuring , a global leader working at the intersection of environmental policy, peacebuilding, and youth leadership. Natalia shares her multifaceted career at the intersection of water, peace, and sustainability. She highlights the importance of a long-term vision, nurturing relationships, and pursuing further education, such as her involvement in the . Whether you're just starting your career or looking to pivot into a field focused on making a difference, particulary in sustainability and impact, this is a...
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Take a listen to Season 14, Episode 3 of the Social Change Career Podcast featuring an AI super connector designed to help people navigate their careers, build meaningful connections, and find opportunities in impact sectors. Why Listen? Learn how AI can support impact professionals in challenging times. Explore the role of AI-driven career networking in fostering real human connections. Gain insights into how Boardy facilitates double opt-in networking to help professionals find aligned collaborations. Hear about the rise of AI in impact careers and how professionals can adapt. ...
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Take a listen to Season 14, Episode 2 of the featuring , a leading nonprofit fundraising consultant with extensive experience mobilizing resources for African NGOs, international organizations, and social enterprises. Why Tune In? Learn practical strategies for resource mobilization and financial sustainability for African NGOs. Explore how local nonprofits can strengthen fundraising capacity to access global funding and thrive. Gain insights into donor cycles, grant writing, and business development tailored for the Global South. Learn the skills needed to build a career connected to...
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Join us for Season 14, Episode 1 of the Social Change Career Podcast which features , an accomplished impact investor and business leader, who shares insights on creating purpose-driven ventures that tackle global challenges while delivering financial returns. Whether you're an aspiring changemaker or a seasoned professional looking to align your career with your values, this conversation offers practical advice and fresh perspectives. Why Take a Listen? Discover strategies for navigating and growing in the evolving field of impact careers. Learn practical advice on aligning your values...
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This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a powerful conversation with , a leader in atrocity prevention and human rights advocacy. As the final episode of 2024, this discussion dives deep into careers at the intersection of peacebuilding, advocacy, and strategic change-making. Mike brings years of expertise, having worked across the U.S., Rwanda, South Sudan, and other conflict zones. He has supported civil society organizations with strategic planning, program development, and policy advocacy. Currently, Mike teaches mass atrocity prevention at Georgetown...
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This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast dives into the world of climate and sustainability careers with , co-founder and CEO of . ClimateBase is a global platform connecting people to impactful jobs, resources, and a community of climate professionals. Evan shares his journey from entrepreneur to climate advocate, offers practical advice for breaking into the sector, and discusses how ClimateBase empowers individuals to build purpose-driven careers. Note, Climatebase ran a small sponsored post in PCDN's Newsletter and Linkedin Channels to help recruit for their cohort seven of...
info_outlineJoin us for Season 14, Episode 1 of the Social Change Career Podcast which features Pravin Rodrigues, an accomplished impact investor and business leader, who shares insights on creating purpose-driven ventures that tackle global challenges while delivering financial returns. Whether you're an aspiring changemaker or a seasoned professional looking to align your career with your values, this conversation offers practical advice and fresh perspectives.
Why Take a Listen?
- Discover strategies for navigating and growing in the evolving field of impact careers.
- Learn practical advice on aligning your values with professional goals.
- Gain insights into scaling businesses that drive social and environmental change.
- Understand how impact investing creates both measurable results and financial returns.
Bio:
Pravin Rodrigues is a multidisciplinary business leader and impact investor with extensive experience in creating positive organizational change and building sustainable business value. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Espera Ventures, he leads investments in early-growth enterprises that contribute to sustainable development while pursuing strong financial returns.
With expertise spanning financial services, clean technology, healthcare, and retail, Pravin has spent decades advising and scaling purpose-driven organizations. He is also the Founder and Principal of Mentis Management Solutions, which provides strategy and advisory services for large-scale transformations. Additionally, through his work at Path & Purpose, he helps young people discover their purpose and build impactful career paths.
Resources mentioned in the podcast
BioPlaster Research (Mexico): Transforming sargassum algae into biodegradable materials to combat pollution.
Refurbi (Colombia): A marketplace offering refurbished electronics, promoting sustainability and affordability.
SmartBeemo (USA/Miami): Empowering Latin American entrepreneurs with e-commerce education and solutions.
PCDN.global – Professional network and resources for impact careers.
Espera Ventures – Impact investment firm focused on Latin America.
Path and Purpose – Program helping young people discover purpose-driven careers.
Latin American Leadership Academy (LALA) – Youth leadership development organization.
University of Cambridge – Offers a Sustainability Master's Program.
Global Alliance for Banking on Values – Network promoting sustainable banking.
Amalgamated Bank – B Corp-certified bank focused on social responsibility.
Triodos Bank – Sustainable banking institution.
Blue Dot – Organization offering AI courses and upskilling opps.
The Fourth Turning – Book recommendation.
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