In this episode, Kristine Michie sits down with Sara Lomelin, founding CEO of Philanthropy Together, to explore why giving should feel joyful, relational, and deeply human. They discuss the rise of giving circles and collaborative funds, the myth that philanthropy belongs only to the wealthy, and how collective giving blends ancient mutual aid with modern infrastructure. Sara shares how Philanthropy Together serves as a “coral reef” for the field, supporting thousands of groups globally, and reflects on love, power, proximity, and the courage to act together in uncertain times.

In this episode, Kristine Michie talks with Phil Buchanan about the mounting pressures on nonprofits and the role of philanthropy in responding. They explore funding cuts, staff reductions, and rising demand, and discuss how donors can step up with trust‑based giving that invests in both people and programs. Phil and Kristine also reflect on resilience, values, and the moral responsibility of privilege, inviting listeners to consider how they can protect what works, reimagine systems thoughtfully, and bring joy and resolve to serious change work.

In this episode, Kristine Michie talks with Jeanine Abrams McLean and Johanne Meleance about how systems shape undercounted communities and how storytelling, civic engagement, and community ownership can drive lasting change.

In this episode, host Kristine Michie sits down with Emma Bloomberg, Founder and CEO of Murmuration, to explore how meaningful civic change begins at the local level. Blending personal stories with practical insight, Emma shares how her organization equips community groups with data, tools, and long-term support to strengthen democratic participation. From small neighborhood wins to national trends tracked through Murmuration’s Civic Pulse program, the conversation highlights a clear message: democracy grows stronger when everyday people choose to engage—block by block, conversation by conversation.

In this The PlayFull Podcast’s Best of 2025 series, host Kristine Michie brings together a chorus of extraordinary changemakers—visionaries in gender justice, philanthropy, political peacebuilding, and social innovation—for a deeply honest, spirited conversation. What unfolds is a rare and refreshing look at how bravery, playfulness, discomfort, and connection intersect in the lives and leadership of women transforming the world. For listeners navigating this moment’s chaos and change, this episode offers not just insight but a sense of belonging, permission to pause, and motivation to press forward.

In this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie speaks with Don Howard, President and CEO of the James Irvine Foundation, about the future of work and the role of philanthropy in an AI-driven economy. Together, they explore how economic empowerment, trust-based giving, and worker inclusion can create more equitable opportunities for low-income communities. Drawing from Don’s journey into philanthropy and his commitment to inclusive leadership, the conversation highlights how empathy, adaptability, and even playfulness can sustain leaders and drive community-led change in a rapidly evolving world.

In this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie sits down with longtime policy strategist and justice advocate Robert Raben for a deeply human conversation about sustaining meaningful work in complex times. Together, they explore how humor, faith, strategic clarity, and emotional grounding help leaders navigate cultural and political pushback without losing their joy. Touching on burnout, inclusion, rest, and the power of play, the conversation reframes resilience as a practice rooted in connection, purpose, and principled action.

In this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie talks with Mia Sundstrom, CEO of the National Institute for Play (NIFP), and Lauren Sundstrom, NIFP Board Member, about the science, practice, and impact of play. They explore how play is essential not just for individual well-being but for workplaces, education, and societal health. From neuroscience and character development to organizational culture and philanthropy, the conversation reframes play as a foundational human and public health necessity.