Episode Details

What happens when a lifelong career in philanthropy collides with a deeply personal loss? In this powerful episode, Chris Schuler shares how losing his father to glioblastoma transformed not only his perspective but his entire approach to giving. Drawing from nearly two decades in nonprofit leadership, Chris challenges the traditional models many organizations rely on and asks the hard questions most in the sector avoid. Are we truly solving the problems we claim to address, or simply sustaining systems that no longer serve donors or outcomes?

Chris introduces the concept of venture philanthropy a model that blends innovation, investment, and accountability to drive real, measurable change. From rethinking donor expectations to exploring partnerships with biotech and venture capital, this conversation pushes beyond feel-good giving into results-driven impact. If you’re a nonprofit leader, donor, or advisor questioning how to create meaningful change in today’s landscape, this episode offers both a wake-up call and a path forward.



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