Giving Intelligence Podcast

Giving Intelligence is a podcast dedicated to exploring the impact of leading non-profits and the meaningful ways to support their mission. Join us as we delve into the stories of organizations making a difference all around the world and learn about the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they bring to the table. With a focus on effective giving, we'll also be discussing the importance of making well-thought-out charitable contributions. While writing a check can do a lot of good, there are often more effective ways to give.

Whether you're an experienced philanthropist or just looking to make a difference, Giving Intelligence is your guide to making the most of your giving in your community.

New episodes will drop the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month.

For a copy of Mitchell's White Paper - "Eight Proven Strategies to Magnify Your Charitable Gifts", please email Mitchell at mkraus@capintelligence.com

If you would like to meet with Mitchell one-on-one to discuss how effective charitable giving and mulit-generational wealth management can be a part of your overall financial planning process,  you can schedule an appointment with him here:

On this episode, we welcome Jennifer Cowan, Chief Executive Officer of Connections for Children. Jennifer leads an organization that for 50 years has been helping children, families, and child care providers across the Westside and South Bay connect to the resources, education, and support they need to thrive. In our conversation, we talk about why child care is far more than a parenting issue, how Connections for Children is making a difference on the ground, and what all of us can do to better support families and the people who care for our youngest children

For more information on Connections For Children visit Connections for Children

Today’s episode is about a simple but powerful idea: we all want our giving to matter. Most donors give from habit or emotion alone, supporting the same causes year after year. But as today’s guest, Matt Coleman, Executive Director of Giving Multiplier, explains, there are also opportunities to give in ways that can be dramatically more effective—sometimes doing far more good per dollar than we might expect. In this conversation, Matt shares how Giving Multiplier helps donors bridge the gap between the causes they care about personally and expert-recommended charities with exceptional impact. It is a practical, thoughtful approach that combines heart and head—allowing donors to support meaningful organizations while also increasing the effectiveness of their giving. As you listen, think about your own charitable giving. Are you giving the way you always have, or are there ways to make your generosity more intentional, more informed, and more impactful? This episode may help you take the next step.

For more information on Giving Multiplier, visit  https://givingmultiplier.org/intelligence

In today’s episode of The Giving Intelligence Podcast, we’ll explore what it really means to support refugees — not just through emergency aid, but through opportunity, education, and partnership.

I’ll be talking with Suzanne Ehlers, Executive Director and CEO of USA for UNHCR, the U.S. nonprofit that raises awareness and resources for the United Nations Refugee Agency. Suzanne shares how her organization connects American donors and partners with global humanitarian impact — from women-led philanthropy to scholarship programs helping refugee students rebuild their futures.

After hearing this conversation, I hope you’ll take a fresh look at your own giving.  Don’t just give out of habit — give with intention. Think about who you give to, why you give, and how you can make your generosity even more meaningful.   For more information on USA For UNHCR please visit How to Help Refugees — Aid, Relief and Donations | USA for UNHCR

On this edition of Giving Intelligence, Mitchell is joined by Jeff Schreifels, one of the leading voices in major donor fundraising. Whether you’re a donor seeking a more meaningful way to give back or a nonprofit professional looking to engage your supporters better, this conversation is for you. Jeff shares powerful insights into what truly inspires generosity and how to feel more connected to the impact of giving. By the end, you’ll walk away with practical ideas to align resources with the legacy you want to create.

For more information on Jeff Scheifels and Veritus Group, please visit www.veritusgroup.com. To get more information on Mitchell and how to better integrate charitable giving into your wealth management plan, please visit www.givingintelligence.com.

In this enlightening episode of Giving Intelligence we sit down with Laurie Herrick, founder of Rainmaker Consulting, to explore how nonprofits can build a stronger culture of philanthropy and engage donors more effectively. Laurie shares her journey from volunteer work with advocacy groups to launching Rainmaker Consulting in 2023 with the mission of helping nonprofits maximize their fundraising potential. In this conversation, Laurie discusses the power of an abundance mindset in philanthropy, recounting how shifting from scarcity thinking to an abundance approach led her to secure a seven-figure donor commitment. She also shares insights from her book Choose Abundance and explores the importance of deep, authentic relationships with donors and board members. Through real-world examples, Laurie demonstrates how organizations can increase donor retention and revenue by fostering a culture of connection and engagement. By the end of this episode, you'll feel inspired to rethink your approach to donor relationships and learn actionable strategies to cultivate lasting partnerships that drive sustainable impact.

For more information on Laurie Herrick and Rainimaker Consulting, please visit their website rainmkr.com. To get a copy of Laurie’s book Choose Abundunce, please visit https://books2read.com/u/m066pM

Join us for an empowering episode of Giving Intelligence as we sit down with Sarah Jakle, the founder of DemocraShe, an organization dedicated to empowering high school girls to find their civic voice and consider running for office. Sarah shares her passion for helping young women overcome imposter syndrome and societal barriers to leadership, emphasizing that it is their birthright to hold office if they choose. In this episode, Sarah discusses the success stories of students who have already stepped into leadership roles and how DemocraShe provides both civic education and resilience skills. As she highlights the challenges her organization faces, including the need for funding and support for diverse, lower-income girls, you’ll feel inspired by the transformative impact of civic engagement on underserved communities. By the end of this conversation, you’ll learn about the critical role you can play—whether through giving, volunteering, or mentoring—in helping young women shape the future of leadership in this country.

For more information on DemocraShe, please visit their website www.democrashe.org. Sarah Jakle’s email is sarah@democrashe.org

Welcome to a special episode of the Giving Intelligence Podcast! While we usually explore the stories and strategies of others in the philanthropic world, today’s episode gives you a closer look at the heart of why I do what I do in the philanthropic space.

This guest episode features a rerecording of my appearance on the Purpose Driven Advisor Podcast. In this conversation, I share the motivations behind my practice and how philanthropy has become a guiding principle in my work.

You’ll hear about my mission to help clients align their wealth with their values, using their resources to create meaningful, lasting impact. I discuss how I guide individuals and families to think deeply about their legacies, channeling their financial success into purposeful giving that changes lives and strengthens communities.

If you’ve ever wondered what inspires me to approach wealth management as a tool for driving positive change, this episode will give you a glimpse into my philosophy and the transformative power of philanthropy. Let’s dive in!

Rob Brown and Truest Fan Coaching are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial or Capital Intelligence Associates

For more information on Rob Brown and Truest Fan Coaching please visit truestfan.com or look for the Purpose Driven Advisor podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Giving Intelligence as we sit down with John Zavalney, a passionate educator and environmental advocate, whose career has been dedicated to making a difference through volunteerism and education. John’s journey began as a teacher with a focus on biology and general science, but it was his deep involvement in environmental education that truly defined his career. In this episode, John shares how his volunteer work, including leading programs like Project Wild, Project Learning Tree, and Roots and Shoots, has impacted countless students and educators. He talks about the power of long-term, service-learning opportunities and the importance of creating meaningful community involvement, rather than just short-term service proj…

For more information on John Zavalney, please visit his YouTube channel .

John Zavalney is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial or Capital Intelligence Associates

Join us for a powerful conversation on Giving Intelligence, as we sit down with Justin Szlasa, the director of homeless initiatives at the Future Communities Institute. Justin shares his personal journey with homelessness and discusses how FCI is tackling the complex issue of homelessness in Los Angeles. From creating the LA Working Capital Fund, which supports community-based organizations facing cash flow challenges, to his upcoming role as a commissioner for the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Justin provides valuable insights into effective strategies in helping the unhoused and shares the importance of community collaboration. In this enlightening episode, you’ll not only learn about FCI’s impactful programs, but also hear about the significance of volunteering and firsthand experience in addressing homelessness. By the end of this episode, you’ll be inspired to take action and explore ways you can contribute to the fight against homelessness in your own community.

For more information on Justin Szlasa and The Future Communities Institute please visit www.futurecommunitiesintitute.org.

In this episode of Giving Intelligence, I have the pleasure of speaking with Egondu Onuoha, a dynamic leader in the nonprofit sector. We begin our conversation by exploring her inspiring journey through nonprofit work and her impactful role at Brooklyn Hospital.As the president of the Grant Professional Certification Institute (GPCI), Egondu shares her insights on the pivotal role of mentorship within the philanthropic landscape. We delve into her remarkable career progression—from registered dietitian to healthcare executive—and how GPCI empowers professionals to identify, write, and manage grants effectively.Join us as we discuss the expectations placed on grant writers and grant-makers alike, emphasizing the critical need for qualified professionals in grant-making teams. We also address the vital importance of equity in funding and how it can transform the nonprofit sector. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that highlights the intersection of healthcare, grant writing, and philanthropy!

Join us for a compelling episode of Giving Intelligence, where we sit down with Hardy Smith, an esteemed author, consultant, and motivational speaker specializing in nonprofit boards. Together, we explore the critical challenges faced by nonprofit boards, from clarifying roles and responsibilities to mastering intentional recruitment strategies. Hardy shares invaluable insights into the fiduciary duties that every board must embrace and unveils transformative fundraising strategies that can elevate your organization. As we dive into the necessity of strategic planning and staying ahead in the evolving landscape of fundraising technology, you’ll feel empowered with actionable insights. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions that will strengthen your nonprofit and amplify your board's impact.

Join us for a compelling episode of Giving Intelligence, where we sit down with Hardy Smith, an esteemed author, consultant, and motivational speaker specializing in nonprofit boards. Together, we explore the critical challenges faced by nonprofit boards, from clarifying roles and responsibilities to mastering intentional recruitment strategies. Hardy shares invaluable insights into the fiduciary duties that every board must embrace and unveils transformative fundraising strategies that can elevate your organization. As we dive into the necessity of strategic planning and staying ahead in the evolving landscape of fundraising technology, you’ll feel empowered with actionable insights. By the end of this conversation, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions that will strengthen your nonprofit and amplify your board's impact.

On this edition of Giving Intelligence, Mitchell sits down with Grey Hillard-Koshinksy of CASA of Bristol County. We discuss the complexities of the foster care system, with Grey sharing their journey from being a volunteer to becoming the founding Executive Director of a new program. The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by young people in foster care, the importance of social wealth, and the need for foster care advocacy in Bristol County, Massachusetts and across the country.

On this episode of Giving Intelligence, I sit down with Cathryn Dhanatya, PhD. Cathryn has over 2 decades experience in working in the non-profit realm from teaching to field work to administration to consulting. She is a frequent speaker on topics involving non-profit matters. We discussed how all donors can think like a professional funder and ways for anyone looking to change the world can take their first steps towards creating a brighter future.

On this episode of Giving Intelligence Mitchell talks to Tracy Vanderneck of PhilCom, whose mission is to make communities better by providing nonprofit organizations with the tools they need to deliver on their missions effectively and efficiently. We discuss the aspects of what makes an effective board, the responsibilities of board members and how nonprofits need to evolve and adapt to changing times. Finally, Tracy gives us some tips from her book "The 60 minute guide to Building the Infrastructure for Successful Nonprofit Fundraising: 10 Essential Building Blocks for Nonprofit Fundraising."

On this episode of Giving Intelligence, I talk to John Del Bello of Bgiving. We discuss the new BGiving social media app as a way to connect donors to nonprofits in their community. John explains how there are so many Americans who want to give and don’t know who to give to and how many nonprofits are doing great work but do not have the size and scale to promote their work to a large enough audience. Bgiving is designed to put together those who want to give back with those organizations that need it most using communities' connections to multiply the effect of giving.

Mitchell sits down with Alison Raitt of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica to discuss their mission and programs and highlight their positive impact on the community and the great work that Boys and Girls Clubs do throughout the United States. We discuss the need for greater awareness of their tremendous work and volunteer support. We discuss the importance of corporate volunteering, charitable giving, and proper estate planning in creating a lasting impact in the community. We ended the conversation on methods of instilling the values of philanthropy in future generations.

Mitchell sits down with Chris Baca of Meals on Wheels West. They discuss the work that Meals on Wheels across the country does, not only feeding those in need but also providing other services such as job training, helping with clothing, and other assistance programs. They finish the conversation discussing the importance of volunteering and how anyone from someone with just a few minutes to members of a famous band can give back

On this episode of Giving Intelligence, Mitchell talks to Carly Basile from Experience Camp, a national non-profit that transforms the lives of grieving children through summer camp programs and innovative, year-round initiatives. We discuss how approximately six million children in the U.S. will experience the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver by the time they turn 18 and how Experience Camp allows these children to learn to grieve among their peers. We delve into their work with these children and Carly’s history with the camp. We go on to talk about the importance of matching gifts and the various ways they help Experience Camp and other worthy organizations.

On this episode of Giving Intelligence, Mitchell sits down with Evan Rahman of Khan Academy. We discuss Khan Academy’s mission to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere. Evan shared the mastery learning approach used by Khan Academy, and how it’s used both as a supplement to classroom learning and a self-learning tool. She also shares their recent integration of AI to help student learners. We discuss how matching gifts can help make an enormous difference when used by individuals or organizations and within families.

Mitchell sat down with Tom Gordon of Responsive Law. They explored Responsive Law's mission of representing the interests of individuals in the legal system, its efforts to improve legal services for consumers, and the challenges faced in navigating the legal system. They discussed the roles of lawyers and non-lawyers in problem-solving, the importance of raising awareness about legal system issues, and ongoing legal reform initiatives.

Dogs Without Borders is a Southern California foster-based rescue, pulling small breed dogs from LA area shelters, as well as working with international rescue partners to re-home dogs in need.  Mitchell has adopted two dogs through them.  We discuss the overwhelming need for forever homes for so many dogs and ways to get involved.  There are many opportunities to help your local rescues even if you are not home enough to have a forever pet and ways to give that can go a long way to getting a dog a good home.

Mitchell and Adam Rein of CapShift discusses his company, Cap Shift, and its focus on impact investing. They touched on the challenges of impact investing under different models and the importance of simplifying and storytelling around underlying investments. Mitchell and Andy review the difference between impact investing and ESG investing and how both might be appropriate to different individuals.

Andy Posner from Capital Good Fund, a nonprofit that addresses poverty and climate change through equity financing joins the podcast. Mitchell discusses with Andy how his organization utilizes donations and investments from foundations to make a difference. They discuss the substantial impact small loans from Capital Good Fund can have on recipients, their communities, and the world.

Mitchell sits down with Genevieve Riutort of Westside Foodbank. They discuss Westside Food Bank's mission, its effort to meet the needs of the community, and its plan to purchase a building to ensure food security for future generations. They highlight the organization's role in providing food to social service agencies and the growing need for food assistance. They go over the different ways people can support their local food bank, such as donating food, money or volunteering.

On this episode of Giving Intelligence, Mitchell interviews Eva Goulborne of Littlefoot Ventures. As a change to our normal format, Eva is a consultant to many nonprofits and grantmakers but doesn’t currently work for a nonprofit. We discuss her background in food systems and how they translate to the work she does today to use her knowledge of these systems to help protect all of us from climate change. We talk about some steps that you can all take, whether you run a big foundation, or just have a few dollars to donate, to help feed the world and make it better for future generations.

Mitchell interviewed Robin Rehak from Tree People, a 50-year-old Los Angeles organization. The conversation highlighted how TreePeople focuses on environmental conservation and works with communities to build resilient cities. Mitchell shared his personal connection with the organization and emphasized the importance of leaving a legacy through nonprofit organizations. The discussion covered the educational resources provided by TreePeople and then went into the benefits for donors of giving appreciated assets and planned gifts.

Mark joins Mitchell to discuss how he got into community activism, what brought him to The Transforming Power Fund, and the work they do in Social and Environmental Justice in Detroit.   They then go into the benefits of donating appreciated assets.

The People Concern is one of the largest providers of services for the unhoused in Los Angeles.  Mitchell talks with Josh about the interesting path that got him into this line of work and how he's helped donors make donations that helped both The People Concern and their donors beyond writing a check such as gifts of real estate or money from retirement plans.

Mike talks to Mitchell about his personal and professional experiences with Make A Wish. We then go into a discussion about how some passionate donors create opportunities to multiply their gifts by getting others involved.

In this episode we talk with Yoga Gives Back founder Kayoko Mitsumatsu on the important work they do in India bringing the next generation out of poverty and the way that the right in-kind donations can make all the difference.

In this inaugural episode, Mitchell sits down with Bill Strickland from City of Hope. They discuss the important work City of Hope does to help battle Cancer and other diseases. They then dive into Bill's decades of experience as a fundraiser and some techniques donors have used to create more effective gifts than just writing a check.