Igniting Change: Recent Episodes
3 Sided Cube
Igniting Change is a podcast focused on the sustainability intention action gap and how we can change behaviours to combat it.
We look to discover how we, as humans, can reduce our impact on the planet, with insights from psychologists, brands, sustainability experts, climate scientists, government, and charitable organisations.
The hosts of Igniting Change are Richard Strachan, Managing Director at 3 Sided Cube, and Charlotte Mill, Head of Marketing at 3 Sided Cube and Ignite champion.
For International Women's Day 2026, our host and COO, Sophie speaks with Rebecca Shadwick, Campaigner for Gender Rights and Justice at Oxfam International, about the ongoing fight for gender rights and justice. They discuss the importance of bodily autonomy as a foundation for justice, the challenges posed by anti-rights movements, and the need for solidarity among feminist and queer movements. The conversation also explores the role of technology in shaping gender rights and the necessity of reimagining a just future, a focus of Oxfam's International Women's Day campaign. Last but certainly not least, we conclude the episode with concrete steps for individuals and communities to take action towards achieving gender equality and justice! Learn more about Oxfam's campaign here: lettersfromthefuture.shorthandstories.com Then the below chapters are also added into the YouTube description: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gender Rights and Justice 02:41 Bodily Autonomy and Justice 05:34 The Importance of Feminist Futures 08:23 Letters from a Feminist Future 11:09 The Role of Technology in Gender Rights 13:44 The Backlash Against Feminism 16:25 Reclaiming the Narrative 19:28 The Intersection of Rights and Justice 22:03 The Impact of Anti-Rights Movements 24:46 Decolonizing Feminism and Rights 31:33 Decolonizing Feminism and Queer Rights 35:29 The Backlash Against Equality 41:00 Recognising Global Anti-Rights Movements 46:45 Hope and Leadership from the Global South 53:21 Concrete Steps Towards a Feminist Future
Two sisters. No startup handbook. A very real problem. And a Dragons' Den deal.
In this episode of Igniting Change, Olivia and Tanyka Davson share how they built Cubbi, a money-saving app and community for new and expecting parents, right in the middle of a cost-of-living squeeze. We talk building without "experience", going viral, and what it takes to scale fast when you know national TV attention is about to hit.
Tune in and find out which Dragon backed them...
After launching our AI Adoption Report, we kept hearing the same question from purpose-led teams: "Great… so what do we do next?"
In this episode, Duncan Cook (CEO) and Matt Lawrence (Head of Marketing) walk through our new downloadable, fill-out-able AI Adoption Toolkit, designed to help organisations adopt AI responsibly in a practical, no-drama way.
We cover how to start small, choose the right problems, protect sensitive data, set guardrails that make experimentation safer, and think about rollback when AI tools don't behave like traditional software. We also dig into why community engagement still lags, and why it matters more than most teams think.
When a crisis hits, how do you lead - and innovate - at the same time?
In this episode of Igniting Change, Puff sits down with Jamie Lesueur, Head of Emergency Operations at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), to explore how technology is reshaping humanitarian aid from the inside out.
From new digital tools that deliver faster, fairer assistance to the power of trust in complex emergency networks, Jamie shares what it really takes to rethink crisis response for a more connected world.
It's a raw, honest look at innovation under pressure, and what happens when humanity and technology work together to save lives.
When people talk about climate action, it's usually doom, gloom, and existential dread.
Justdiggit flips that script. In this episode, Puff sits down with Merel Rikveld, Head of Communications at Justdiggit, to dig into the movement that's turning degraded land green again, and doing it at scale.
Merel shares how local communities in Kenya, Tanzania and Senegal are restoring land, bringing back millions of trees, and even reshaping cultural dynamics through grassroots leadership. We get into the tech behind it - from satellite imagery to digital regreening, and the creativity that turns data into stories people can actually connect with. If you want a climate conversation that's hopeful, grounded, and obsession-worthy, this one's for you!
If you want to help make more "earth smiles", donate here: https://justdiggit.org/donate/
From Google Docs to doing good. 💚
In this episode, Puff sits down with Addie Achan, founder of The Kaleidoscope Project, to unpack what it really takes to build AI that drives meaningful change.
Addie shares her journey from software engineer at Google to building AI models for The Trevor Project, leading AI strategy at Fast Forward, and now helping philanthropies and investors make ethical, evidence-based funding decisions.
It's an honest, practical look at how purpose-led teams can build AI that actually serves people and planet - join the conversation!
What do AI adoption, purpose-led orgs, and a taco hat have in common? 🌮
Turns out, it's the perfect recipe for an honest (and slightly chaotic) chat about where AI for good is heading.
Join the convo to get the inside scoop from Duncan and Matt at 3 Sided Cube before our new AI Adoption report drops on 12 November.
This one's got it all, the data, the debates, and....taco's. They dive into:
- What 89% of purpose-led orgs are doing with AI
- Why the hype's giving way to hands-on experimentation
- Where AI for good is making real impact (and where it's not)
- And of course, a rousing game of Stat or Cap
🎧 Tune in for laughs, insights, and your first look at what's next in AI adoption.
Wildfires are one of the fastest-growing natural threats on the planet, and the race to detect them earlier has never been more urgent.
In this episode of Igniting Change, Puff talks with Neal Spungen, Founder of Detect Wildfires, about the technology, teamwork, and human story behind innovations in wildfire detection.
From sensors that spot smoke in seconds to the partnerships driving faster, smarter response, this episode explores how tech can protect lives, communities, and ecosystems from the world's most relentless natural disaster.
Because fighting fire with tech isn't science fiction, it's happening now, at first spark.
How do you lead digital transformation when human rights are on the line?
In this episode of Igniting Change, we sit down with Paul Smith, Chief Information Officer at Amnesty International, to unpack what it really takes to modernise technology inside one of the world's most values-driven organisations.
Paul shares his journey from the corporate world into the nonprofit sector, why leading with empathy matters, and how Amnesty is using data, cloud and AI responsibly to power global change while protecting the people behind the mission.
Meet Roo, a chatbot built to protect privacy, share facts, and give hope when access to care is under attack.
In this episode of Igniting Change, Puff talks with Nicole Levitz, Senior Director of Digital Interventions and Insights at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, about Roo’s creation and how it’s helping millions of people find trusted answers about sexual and reproductive health online.
This conversation is about more than AI - it’s about designing technology that stands up for truth, trust, and women’s health.
Maps aren’t just lines and dots. In the right hands, they’re tools for resilience.
In this episode of Igniting Change, we sit down with Nicole Siggins, researcher and civic technologist, to talk about the messy, human process of turning community data into tools that actually make a difference.
Nicole shares lessons from years of work at the intersection of mapping, research, and civic infrastructure, where mentorship is scarce, partnerships can be tricky, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Caring for a child comes with huge responsibility. And when emergencies happen, every second matters.
In this episode of Igniting Change, Emma speaks with Jill Hernandez from the American Red Cross about how the organisation is reimagining childcare training and launching a brand-new Childcare App with 3 Sided Cube.
Together they explore how the Red Cross supports tens of thousands of caregivers every year, why modernising this training was overdue, and how tech can give caregivers the confidence to act, whether that means handling everyday care or stepping up in a life-threatening moment.
This is a story about empowerment, community, and the tools that make care safer for everyone.
👉 Download the Childcare App: available now on the App Store and Google Play
Season 8 of Igniting Change kicks off with a candid conversation on America’s gun violence epidemic, and the tech that’s helping fight it.
We recorded this episode with Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention organisation in the U.S., after hearing them share a sobering reality: America is the only country in the world with more guns than citizens. With a population of 331 million, that’s a statistic that says it all.
Puff sits down with Nick Suplina, Senior VP for Law & Policy at Everytown. Nick talks openly about America’s gun violence crisis, the gaps in data that keep progress stalled, and how Everytown is using AI to change the story.
What do Nike ads and methane leaks have in common? Not much — unless you’re Pooja Munsshi.
To wrap up Season 7, we’re joined by Pooja from the UN Environment Programme’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO), who left a high-flying marketing career to take on one of the planet’s most urgent climate challenges.
We talk career pivots, building data platforms that people actually use, and how to turn transparency into action. This one’s packed with insight for anyone working in tech, climate, or just wondering what it takes to step into something that really matters.
Thanks for being part of another season of Igniting Change, see you for Season 8! 💚
In this episode of Igniting Change, we catch up with Virtual Doctors, the charity using smartphones to link rural clinicians in Zambia and Malawi with volunteer doctors across the globe.
James and Daniel join us to talk about:
- Evolving their app for real-world impact
- The challenges of scaling telemedicine in low-resource settings
- Onboarding 60 new clinicians in just three weeks
- Why UK-based doctors are choosing to volunteer — and how you can too
💚 Learn more or donate: virtualdoctors.org
What do you do when global funding gets pulled overnight, and people still need care? Leah Ekbladh, Executive Director of Digital Square, joins us for a chat about the messy business of making digital health systems sustainable, equitable, and country-owned.
You’ll hear: 💻 Why many global tech pilots fail (and how to avoid the graveyard) 🌱 What it means to truly localise innovation 🧠 How to shape digital tools that scale and stick 💸 What funders get wrong—and what needs to change 📣 And how you (yes, you) can support global health solutions, no code required
This is tech for good with teeth—full of hard-earned lessons, humour, and hope.
What do you get when you mix a backend dev, a front-end wizard, a pile of AI tools and a challenge involving… cats? Absolute chaos—and some very questionable furry drumsticks.
In this gloriously unhinged episode, Cube’s own Kev and Tom take on an internal challenge: build an AI-powered cat avatar maker in a single day. No pressure, right?
💻 Expect:
- Image generation mishaps (we’re looking at you, furry eggs)
- UX chaos and jQuery throwbacks
- Brilliant moments of AI magic
- And a healthy dose of panic, laughter, and front-end sass
They explore tools like ChatGPT, Cursor, Adobe Firefly and Perplexity—all while trying to make something user-friendly, vaguely cat-shaped, and surprisingly… it works?
Whether you’re here for the tech, the humour, or just to hear Tom slowly unravel, this episode is packed with all the fun and expertise you’ve come to expect from 3 Sided Cube’s award-winning crew.
🐾 Try the result yourself: Purrsonamaker.com 🎥 Want to see Tom’s descent into madness? Head to our YouTube for the video version!
War zones. Mass displacement. Millions in need. When crisis hits, traditional humanitarian systems move too slow, but what if tech could flip the script?
In this episode, we sit down with Chutima Tantakasem, Head of Digital Solutions at the UN World Food Programme in Ukraine, to talk about how her team is tearing down outdated processes and using digital tools to deliver aid faster, smarter, and with more dignity for the people who need it most.
We get into: 💥 QR codes that slash aid delivery time from 3 weeks to just 72 hours 🔗 Blockchain stopping fraud and making sure every dollar gets where it should 🛠️ The future of digital humanitarian aid—AI, automation, and data-driven decisions 🤯 What happens when charities stop playing it safe and start thinking like tech companies
This isn’t just about faster aid, it’s about a complete rethink of how we respond to crisis.
🎧 Hit play and find out how innovation is changing humanitarian aid for good.
What if charities could move as fast as startups? What if AI could actually help, instead of just being another buzzword?
Enter Jim Snape, Deputy Director of Technology at the National Deaf Children’s Society, who’s ditched slow processes, flattened hierarchies, and embraced AI, all in the name of making a bigger impact.
In this episode of Igniting Change, we get into: - How Jim’s team got rid of bureaucracy bloat and put decision-making in the hands of the people who actually do the work - AI in nonprofits: What’s real, what’s nonsense, and how to make it work for you - The remote-first revolution, why flexible work isn’t just a perk but a game-changer for charities - Why quarterly planning beats waiting years for progress
This one’s for leaders who want to shake things up, nonprofits who need to move faster, and anyone wondering if AI is worth the hype.
🎧 Listen now and get inspired to do things differently!
With iOS 19’s massive overhaul on the horizon, AI is clearly Apple’s next big frontier. But before we get swept up in what’s next, let’s talk about what’s already here: Apple Intelligence.
In this episode, Greg and Sam put Apple’s latest AI tools to the test: 📩 AI-powered email writing – adios Grammarly? 📸 Photo editing wizardry or just clever AI washing? 🧠 Siri + ChatGPT – a dynamic duo or a frustrating mess? Are these advancements truly game-changing, or is it all just smoke and Apple marketing mirrors? And what about the features that haven’t landed yet? We’re talking usability, accessibility, cognitive load, and the future of AI integration in Apple’s ecosystem. Hit play to find out what’s exciting, what’s frustrating, and what we’re really waiting for...
Running a global nonprofit, transforming education with tech, and raising kids? That's no small feat…right?!
For International Women’s Day, we’re joined by Lauren Lichtman and Navya Akkinepally, the co-executive directors of Learning Equality, to talk about co-leadership, making education accessible without the internet, and how motherhood has shaped the way they lead.
💡 What does it take to share leadership without stepping on toes? 🌍 How can tech bring quality learning to students without internet access? ⚡ What lessons from parenting carry over into leading a team?
This episode is about trust, resilience, and what leadership really looks like behind the scenes—as co-leaders, as women, and as parents.
🎧 Listen now
#IgnitingChange #TechForGood #IWD2025 #EducationForAll #WomenInLeadership
Thirty years since the Beijing Declaration, where are we on gender justice? And why does it feel like progress is slipping backwards?
For International Women’s Day, we’re joined by Amina Hersi, Head of Gender Rights and Justice at Oxfam International, for a raw and urgent conversation about the state of gender equality, the power imbalances that keep progress slow, and the feminist movements still pushing forward against all odds.
💡 Why are 252 men wealthier than all the women in Africa, Latin America & the Caribbean combined? 🌍 What does the rise of right-wing agendas mean for gender justice? ⚡ How are grassroots feminist movements leading real change in the Global South?
This episode is fierce, unfiltered, and necessary. It’s about the realities of power, money, and resistance—and why global solidarity is more urgent than ever.
🎧 Listen now
#IgnitingChange #IWD2025 #GenderJustice #FeministSolidarity #TechForGood
How do we tackle some of the biggest challenges facing children today? In this episode of Igniting Change, we sit down with Thomas Davin, UNICEF’s Global Innovation Director, to talk about the bold ideas, emerging tech, and next-gen problem solvers shaping the future of child welfare. From AI-driven education to climate entrepreneurs under 30, Thomas shares how UNICEF is backing big ideas with real impact—because with 225 million kids out of school, change isn’t optional. It’s urgent.
Duncan Cook (our fearless CEO) and Matt (Head of Marketing extraordinaire) dive into the results of our AI survey, where we asked thousands of purpose-driven organisations how they’re using AI. The verdict? From cautious optimism to full-on experimentation, it’s clear that the tech for good sector is learning to love AI. Expect big insights about balancing ethics, privacy, and innovation, plenty of actionable takeaways, and a few surprise moments—like Duncan striking his best superhero pose during a quiz showdown. Ready to explore what’s next for AI in tech for good? Hit play now.
What happens when your boss calls in mid-recording to put you on blast? Or when an email system bombards thousands of inboxes? Kev and Tom are here to relive their most chaotic moments as developers and, more importantly, what they learned from them. From scaling smarter to avoiding API disasters, this episode is full of real talk, a few laughs, and plenty of takeaways. Whether you’re a developer or just love hearing how we turn challenges into triumphs, this one’s worth a listen (even just to hear Kev and Tom's boss call in to tell them off).
Welcome to the Igniting Change Developer takeover! In this episode, Kev and Tom, our favourite front-end (Fed) and back-end (Bed) techies, dive into everything that makes our projects tick. From the nuts and bolts of cross-team collaboration to trusted tech stacks, it’s all here – wrapped in learnings, excessive use of the soundboard, and a bit of an office bromance.
In this episode, we sit down with Elham Fardad, CEO and founder of Migrant Leaders. Elham shares her journey from finance director at global firms like EY to creating a charity that helps young migrants reach their full professional potential. With stories of personal perseverance and inspiring success, Elham reveals how mentoring, work experiences, and tailored support are changing the lives of young people. If you’re passionate about social impact and innovation, this episode is a must-listen!
In this episode, we chat with Hazem Mahmoud, Director of Products and Services at the Patrick J McGovern Foundation. Hazem reveals his journey from finance to AI, all in the name of social good. From developing AI-powered tools like Grant Guardian to transforming the way nonprofits assess financial risk, Hazem is changing the game. Tune in to discover how AI can revolutionise nonprofits, and get a sneak peek at the foundation's upcoming climate-focused app that’s about to drop! This one’s packed with tech, purpose, and a whole lot of passion.
On this Episode of Igniting Change, join our very own Greg and James as they dive into the ways that Artificial Intelligence is revolutionising daily life and reshaping digital experiences. Discover how cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT's voice mode and niche AI tools like Hemingway and Suno, are enhancing workflows and offering innovative solutions, as well as the exciting possibilities and challenges of integrating AI into personal and professional settings.
In this episode, we chat with Smita Challu Tulsani, founder of Linkloop.ai. Smita shares her unique journey from AI engineering to social impact, weaving technology and human connection together. From her AI-powered mentor-mentee platform to driving digital transformation in non-profits, Smita reveals the true power of purpose-driven technology. Discover how tech is changing the social sector, from AI chatbots to authentic storytelling, and learn what the future holds for digital transformation.
In this episode, we chat with Peter Williams, a tech pioneer who’s been on a wild career journey—from politics in the UK to driving innovation in disaster resilience with AI in the US. Peter dives into how technology is revolutionising disaster preparedness, but also tackles the tough stuff like equity in access and AI’s potential pitfalls. Whether it’s building smarter cities or figuring out how to make AI truly fair, Peter’s insights will change how you see the future of disaster management.
In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Zitner, the Global Safety and Security Director at IRC, to discuss her journey from journalism to humanitarian work. Hannah shares how tech is reshaping humanitarian aid, the role of local solutions, and IRC's innovative projects like Signpost AI. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of leveraging technology for good, empowering refugees, and managing risks in conflict zones. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how grassroots innovation meets cutting-edge technology to drive real change.
In this episode, we’re joined by Ronda Železný-Green, co-founder of Panoply Digital and founder of datocracy. Ronda shares her journey from job loss to leading a movement to democratise data and make it accessible to all—especially women and communities in low-income countries.
Puff and Ronda dive into how she’s using data for social good, from climate activism to ethical AI, and discuss her new, free courses designed to empower businesses and individuals alike. If you're passionate about using technology to drive real change, this episode is for you - have a listen and ignite change with us.
In this episode of Igniting Change, the team at 3 Sided Cube takes a closer look at the key updates from Apple’s WWDC24. Our very own Greg Gomez, Head of Product, James Marriott, Head of Creative, and Sam Davis, iOS Team Lead, discuss how Siri’s new autonomy features and Apple Intelligence are set to transform app development and user experiences. From improved accessibility to streamlined app orchestration, they explore what these changes mean for both developers and users.
We also delve into the concept of "Sherlocking" and the impact of Vision Pro on how we engage with media and technology. Join the Cubies for an insightful discussion on the future of AI and its role in shaping the digital landscape.
Welcome to the latest episode of Igniting Change, where we dive into the transformative journey of Sarah Evans, from securities law to the forefront of water sustainability in East Africa through her non-profit organisation, Well Aware. In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics, including the global water crisis, non-profit funding challenges, innovative fundraising, and the role of technology in ensuring water project sustainability. Tune in and ignite change with us!
In this episode of Igniting Change, we're joined by Sarah Berry, Director of Marketing at Relate, to discuss her unique career journey and how she's utilising technology to promote social change within the charity sector. From career aspirations of bubble-blowing as a five-year-old, to the realisation of technology's potential in activism, Sarah shares her story and Relate's innovative AI projects aimed at supporting personal relationships. She takes us through her 'pre-mortem' strategy, an innovative approach to foreseeing potential roadblocks and strategising solutions before they even occur.
When it comes to AI, the road to implementation is rarely without its bumps - join us for a transparent and insightful conversation!
Tune into the latest episode of Igniting Change to follow the inspirational journey of Elizabeth Shaughnessy, who went from the world of English Literature into the heart of digital innovation at Oxfam.
This episode is not just a story; it's an adventure that explores the pivotal role of digital tools in amplifying the voices of those on the margins and tackling the digital divide head-on. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and challenged to think differently about the digital world's role in humanitarian work. Listen now and join the conversation at the crossroads of innovation and ethics, where every byte and pixel has the power to make a difference.
Join us for a fascinating chat with Michael Kleinman from Amnesty International USA, where we dive into the heart of tech's role in human rights. We'll tackle everything from the dark side of spyware to the battle over online freedom, and shine a light on the digital warriors fighting for a fairer world. Michael also gives us the lowdown on AI's double-edged sword and the hopeful horizon of regulations and grassroots power-ups. If you're keen on seeing how small teams can make huge waves and turn tech into a force for good, you won't want to miss this episode. It's all about making complex issues friendly, understandable, and most importantly, actionable. Let's ignite change together!
Join us this week on Igniting Change we chat with hydrologist Jonathan Mackay from the British Geological Survey and Jed Ramsay from Project Groundwater, about the complexities and challenges of groundwater flooding and its management in the wake of climate change. Jon's expertise in forecasting water-related events pairs with Jed's hands-on experience with Project Groundwater, revealing the urgent need for advanced modelling and community-centric strategies to fight the often-overlooked issue of groundwater-induced floods.
Listen in as they share the pivotal role of geoscience in predicting and preparing for environmental changes that threaten our communities…
Explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in disaster management in our latest episode of Igniting Change. We're joined by Mayleen Cabral from the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction to dive deep into how AI is reshaping everything from emergency preparedness to recovery efforts.
Witness firsthand the game-changing role of AI in improving risk assessments and utilising geospatial data during crises. Our discussion with Mayleen will uncover the latest in humanitarian mapping projects, shed light on forthcoming reports on tech's role in disaster mitigation, and highlight essential resources for expanding your knowledge. Don't miss out on learning about AI's pivotal role in boosting global disaster resilience and response. Tune in now!
Welcome to our conversation with Amina Hersi, Head of Gender Rights and Justice at Oxfam International, as we explore the landscape of the feminist movement in digital spaces. As we celebrate International Women's Day, Amina sheds light on the tightening grip on digital and civic freedoms that activists are experiencing. Join us to learn about the intersection of human rights and digital rights and the vital role solidarity plays in keeping the flames of motivation and change burning.
Could the future of tech look brighter, more diverse, and more impactful with women at the helm? Our special guest, Nicole Levitz, Senior Director of Digital Health Interventions and Insights at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, joins the Igniting Change podcast to talk with Puff all about the transformative power of women in the technology sector. As we are celebrating International Women's Day this week, Nicole shares her unexpected venture into digital health technology and advocates for a future where diversity is the norm, not the exception.
This week Puff catches up with Michelle Williams, IT Director Boundless, as she shares her journey from a call center to IT leadership. Discover how mentorship and community service sculpted her path, and the crucial role networking played in her career. Join us as we examine the game-changing impact of AI and smart technologies in healthcare, showcasing examples from telehealth to communication aids that enhance care quality and efficiency. Tune in to gain insights into the future of healthcare, powered by AI, through the experiences of those leading the charge.
From theatre stages to the strategic implementation of philanthropy data, Max Dakin, UNICEF USA's Deputy Director of Philanthropy Data Strategy, helps us kick off Igniting Change Season 5 with a conversation that intertwines data with compassion. Max discusses his transformative journey, shedding light on how UNICEF USA harnesses the power of data to lead impactful fundraising campaigns for children worldwide. His story is a fantastic representation of the marriage between passion and analytics, reminding us that numbers, when used thoughtfully, can become a driving force for global change.
In a world of plenty, where enough food is produced to feed everyone on the planet, hunger should be a thing of the past. However, conflict, climate change, disasters, and inequality means that one in ten people globally are still going to bed hungry and famine looms for millions. In our latest Igniting Change episode, we sit down with Bernhard Kowatsch from the World Food Programme to discuss their tireless work to feed millions of the world’s hungriest people.
Access to healthcare is a basic human right. According to the World Health Organization, up to 3.5 billion people, almost half the world’s population, lack access to the health services they need.
Something needs to change.
Welcome Dr Isabelle Widmer into the conversation. She joins this week’s episode to discuss how Virtual Doctors are saving lives in Africa by harnessing technology to bridge the healthcare gap in underserved communities. From the nitty-gritty of telemedicine to their cutting-edge solutions for remote medical support, Isabelle details past challenges to present victories and exciting plans for expansion.
The conversation covers AI reshaping the healthcare game, to the soothing dulcet tones that were 90’s dialup and everything in-between - this is a conversation you don’t want to miss!
Meet Christina Barstow, the dynamic Director of Strategic Partnerships at Helvetas, an International Nonprofit Organization. Christina, an engineer by training, shares her fascinating professional trajectory that took her from the classrooms of the University of Colorado to rural communities across East Africa, where she has been at the helm of impactful projects in the water sector.
In this conversation, we navigate the world of 'tech for good', a sphere that Christina and her team at Helvetas have been exploiting to alleviate poverty and advance human rights in more than 30 countries. This conversation will shift your perspective on the role of technology in international development. Tune in for an eye-opening interview packed with insights, innovation, and inspiration.
Have you ever thought about the immense influence technology wields in shaping our societies? Get ready to have your curiosity satisfied in a big way…
Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating world of digital transformation with our guest, Dr. Melanie Garson, the Cyber Policy and Acting Director of Geopolitics at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. We explore how technology is a game-changer in various sectors. From its role in search and rescue missions to predicting climate disasters and even creating support networks for victims of domestic abuse, be prepared to be inspired by the incredible ways tech can transform lives, and trust us, you won't want to miss this incredibly insightful conversation with Dr. Garson!
Get ready to find out how our next guest, Matt Holbrook, the Director of Operations at Global Growers Network is igniting some serious change in the world.
We dive into the inspirational work that Matt and his team are doing to uplift immigrants and refugees in Atlanta by providing access to community gardens for folks to enjoy on a personal level, and even larger plots for those who dream of launching their small businesses.
But Matt's journey doesn't stop at Global Growers. Find out how he used his tech know-how to make a difference by reexamining cases of wrongful conviction at the Georgia Innocence Project. Matt's story isn't just inspiring; it's a testament to what technology and community can achieve.
On this week’s episode, we dive into the world of social entrepreneurship with our inspiring guest, Dan Lammot, CEO at threshold.world.
From California surfer to tech-savvy social entrepreneur in Puerto Rico, Dan's journey has been an interesting one and is as exciting as his mission to revolutionise the nonprofit sector with cloud-based solutions. Tune in to discover how b.world—the world’s first impact storytelling platform—is breaking barriers by enabling smaller organisations to access top-tier technological solutions without the colossal financial and time burdens of implementation.
Did you know using a simple emoji can help unlock the door to more impactful fundraising? This week Attiya Hirji, Digital Fundraising Specialist at Oxfam International, joins us to pull back the curtain on the world of tech-empowered non-profit fundraising.
Based in Nairobi, Kenya, Attiya shares her journey from her early fundraising efforts, to now playing a key role in addressing global issues such as poverty, climate change, and gender inequality. Throughout the conversation, she underscores the importance of fundraising and communication as the backbone of any effective organisation and takes us through how evolving technology is changing the game.
In recent years, technology has proven what an incredibly powerful tool it can be for mental health advocacy and support. Join us for a fascinating dive into the innovative mind of Ariana Vargas, an accomplished documentary filmmaker and the founder of Stigma, a game-changing app that champions mental health through the art of storytelling. Ariana’s journey is a testament to her courage and resolve, transitioning from a pre-med student to a tech startup founder, fueled by personal experiences with mental health and a passion to eradicate the stigmas associated with it.
Imagine having the power to redefine the conversation on sexual and reproductive health, reaching millions around the world. In this episode, we’re joined by Lester Coutinho, Director of Innovation and Insights at DKT International, a trailblazer in this field for over 25 years. Find out how DKT International has revolutionised access to contraceptives, clinics, counselling, and follow-up care. Join our conversation as we explore how these innovations empower individuals, providing them with choice and autonomy on a global scale.
Ever wonder how Greenpeace harnesses the power of big data to deliver on its radical mission? Catch our conversation with Doug Krehbel, Director of Data and Business Intelligence at Greenpeace USA, to get his insightful answer to that burning question. With a background in software development and data strategy, he reveals how his team uses data to transform strategies for environmental advocacy and fundraising.
Curious about tech’s transformative role in the nonprofit sector? This week, we chat with Jamil Khan, Digital Engagement Leader at Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. From its origins, sparked by 4-year-old Alex Scott’s heartfelt lemonade stands, to its present-day impact, raising $250M+ for pediatric cancer research and family support. Tune in for an inspiring journey of resilience, innovation, and impact.
Thrilled to have Bill Miller, CEO of the Keane University Foundation, join us this week. We delve into the evolution of philanthropy in the digital era - where data analytics and AI aren’t just buzzwords, but catalysts for massive change.
Seema Iyer, Senior Director of The Hive at USA for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, joins us to discuss her circuitous career path, and how she went from studying human migration patterns in the former Soviet Union during the '90s to running the data science and innovation lab for UNHCR.
In an Igniting Change first, we have Vicky Godfrey back in the hot seat to give us an update on the challenges and successes of launching an app now that DNApal has launched in the iOS store!
Alex Sindorf, Food Assistance Programs Manager at Indy Hunger Network, joins us to discuss their movement to end food insecurity for anyone who is hungry.
Rachel Wells, Senior Manager of Community Programs at DataKind, joins us to talk about how she enables social impact at her organisation with AI & data science.
Shiloh Paul, Product Manager at MeaningSphere, joins us to discuss her role at an inspirational start-up that’s on a mission to help people find more meaning in their work lives.
Rachel Hope, Director, Digital Services, Vaccinations NHS, joins us to discuss how her career beginnings in civil service led to her impressive career utilising technology to bring services and care into people’s homes.
Jamie Bearse, President & CEO at Zero Prostate Cancer, joins us to discuss the work his organisation does to advocate for prostate cancer research and how their life-saving ZERO360 program fights to cut through the red tape and support patients through their cancer journeys.
Mary Wellen, Senior Digital Fundraising Manager at Wildlife Conservation Society, joins us to talk about how a happenstance business trip became the catalyst and inspiration for her to forge a new career path in an organisation that protects wildlife + wild places in over 50 countries.
Camila Tapias, Global Disaster Resilience Specialist at SPIN Global, joins us to discuss her passion for disaster preparedness and its parallels to sports like basketball.
Dave Thau, Data and Technology Global Lead Scientist at WWF joins us as we explore technology's role and impact in conservation and tackling biodiversity loss.
Akshay Khullar, Director of Digital Fundraising at American Humane, joins us to discuss how a 145-year-old organisation manages to stay ahead of the game in terms of innovation and digital fundraising.
Dr. Paula Hall, Clinical Director at Pivotal Recovery, joins us to discuss how her platform uses technology to help people overcome pornography and sex addiction.
Michael Edmonson, Co-Founder & CEO of Worthy Mentoring, joins us to discuss his non-profit that connects mentors and mentees in the LGBTQIA+ communities to deliver help and guidance.
Isabelle Smith, Chief Information Officer at All Hands and Hearts, joins us to discuss how she went from volunteering in the Philippines to her role as a CIO of a global organisation that helps communities recover from disasters.
Lara Strangways, Head of Business & Human Rights at Global Rights Compliance, joins us to discuss how they deliver remedy and justice through the innovative application of international law.
Petya Kangalova, Open Tech Collective Facilitator for Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team, joins us to discuss the incredible power of open-source technology and the competitive advantage that collaboration and openness can offer the third sector.
Rachel Kimber, Vice President of Smile Train, joins us to discuss the inspirational journey from her upbringing, travelling on her gap year(s), to how she began working at a global charity that supports children born with cleft palates in 87 different countries.
Amy Walker, Head of Digital Communities & Development for Missing People, joins us to discuss her journey from being a technology hobbyist, to using it for those in need.
Vicky Godfrey, Co-Founder of DNApal, joins us to discuss how her HealthTech company delivers personalised health advice to help users make better lifestyle choices by using nutrigenomics.
Natasha Benson, CEO of F4ID, joins us to discuss fintech for international development and how to deliver impactful solutions to the humanitarian sector.
Feraye Ozfescioglu, CEO of World Humanitarian Forum, joins us to discuss how what began as a one-off event has now become one of the largest conveyors of humanitarian organisations in the world.
Tom Jackson, Founder of Honest Ocean, joins us to discuss career changes, failed start-ups, and pivots that all led to him setting up a recycling infrastructure in South East Asia to remove plastic from the ocean.
Laura Probst, Founder of Do Good: Make Money, joins us to discuss how she went from empowering women in South Africa to forging partnerships with some of the biggest for-good companies around the world.
Nick Pollard, founder of Family Mental Wealth, joins us to discuss how he used a heartbreaking family experience to radically transform mental health provision for families and children through digital tools.
Alex de Brunner, Founder of Ethos, joins us to discuss how, at just 19 years old, she released a social media platform to encourage Gen Z to change the world.
Michael Kleinman, Director of Technology and Human Rights for Amnesty International, joins us to discuss human rights, Big Tech, and the “Puff coin” coming to a Crypto Exchange near you!
Nathalia Dos Santos, Senior Program Manager for Innovation at The Rockefeller Foundation, joins us to discuss her fascinating work on the 17 Rooms initiative.
Matt Jerwood is a digital engagement consultant who has worked with Oxfam and Tommy’s. He joins us to discuss how he has helped shape the world of digital fundraising.
Sarah Farooqi joins us to discuss her work with Digital Impact Alliance to bring their vision to life of a world where everyone has access to digital tools in order to participate in society.
Liz Bubel joins us to discuss her role within the American Red Cross and the development of the emergency app, which provides life saving information to every American.
Ellie Hood is a principal innovation lead at the NHS foundation, where she heads up a team working on the frontlines to help NHS hospitals and GP surgeries become more efficient and innovative.
Sue Gowling is from Laptops4Learning, an organisation who work with corporations to get surplus technology into the hands of disadvantaged individuals to tackle digital inequality.
Anne-Marie Grey is the CEO and executive director of USA for UNHCR, and brings a wealth of knowledge to the agency, with the aim to better the lives of millions of refugees.
Tea Tüür joins us from the World Resources Institute (WRI) to discuss the massive impact that data is having in shaping sustainability and monitoring the earth's resources on a global scale.
Tom Lay joins us from Cancer Research UK to discuss the impactful work that he has been involved with; from innovative fundraising to building large-scale campaigns.
George Saggers is the product development lead at Good Nature Agro, an organisation that helps small-scale African farmers grow and sell crops profitably.
Nudj is an app to help you take simple challenges to reduce your carbon footprint. Gabby and Rich talk to Nudj’s founders, Dee and Meg about their journey.
We are joined by Simone Clarke, CEO of UN women Australia to discuss the role that UN women have in promoting gender equality within the world.
Daniel Hemsley, co-founder of Beagle Button, joins us to discuss how the Beagle Button extension helps making sustainable choices easy when shopping online.
We talk to Anne-Charlotte Mornington, the head of impact at Olio, a community sharing app aimed at reducing waste. Anne-Charlotte shares her thoughts on the power of impact and the change that technology can bring. Olio is available to download on iOS and Android.
Host Rich Strachan gives an introduction into what can be expected from Igniting Change Season 2, and some of the guests joining us.
In the last episode of this season, hosts Richard Strachan and Charlotte Mill reflect on some of the main takeaways from guests.
Jo Chidley, founder of Beauty Kitchen, on demystifying the beauty industry, business responsibility, and having one version of the truth.
Applied futurist, Tom Cheesewright, on sustainability trends, influencing behaviours, and the two-pronged approach to combating climate change.
Kate Sandle, Director of Engagement at B Corp UK, talks about the need for long-termism, working with businesses to create change, and using the word 'responsibility' instead of 'sustainability'.
Paul Tyrer, founder of Eumelia, discusses the power of information, visualisation, and starting small.
Marc Violo, head of marketing at Loop, talks about reuse, consumer demand and applying the milkman model.
Molly Webb, founder of YoYu, talks about having the option to make more sustainable decisions - and how to make that single change - and introduces us to 'dirty hour'.
Climate activist and artist, Tolly Gregory, on being an active citizen, the differing forms of action one can take, and trolling for good.
Mark Maslin, Climate Scientist at UCL and author of 'How to Save Our Planet: The Facts', on global perspective, why people aren't sustainable and the climate change communication style.
Hello and welcome to Igniting Change, a podcast series focused on the sustainability intention gap and how we can change behaviours to combat it.
The hosts of Igniting Change are Richard Strachan, Managing Director at 3 Sided Cube, and Charlotte Mill, Head of Marketing at 3 Sided Cube and Ignite champion.