Meet Payam Zamani, Founder of One Planet Group, a private equity firm that owns several online technology and media businesses. Payam is CEO and Chairman of Inspirato, a luxury travel club based in Denver, Colorado.  A former Iranian refugee who launched a billion dollar IPO, Payam is a remarkable servant leader who exemplifies the American spirit.  

Our enlightening conversation, ranging from “spiritual capitalism” to compassionate leadership and nobility of spirit, will inspire and challenge you.  Eavesdrop on this important and timely conversation! 

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Visit Meena Global to discover more and connect with Meena.

EAVESDROP WITH MEENA IS BACK! We're so excited to announce the release of season 5, and this season is FILLED with truly inspiring guests that you won't want to miss!

First up is Payam Zamani. Payam is a former Iranian refugee who launched a billion dollar IPO, and he is on a mission to reform capitalism for the greater good. In this episode, Payam shares his compelling life story, from his difficult childhood in Iran to his entrepreneurial success in the United States. He discusses his memoir 'Crossing the Desert,' the challenges of religious persecution, the journey of leaving Iran, and his hopes for redefining capitalism through universal principles of spirituality. Payam emphasizes the importance of leading with love, the role of immigrant communities, and the significance of spirituality and service in business. Payam will leave you with a vision for a brighter tomorrow. FULL EPISODE RELEASES March 10!

Singer-songwriter Carrie Newcomer shares her journey through music, poetry, and spirituality. Carrie discusses the profound impact of language and music, her inspirations, and the importance of balancing creation and performance. She also performs two of her songs, "You Can Do This Hard Thing" and "Book of Questions which will resonate deeply with listeners.

• Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieNewcomer, https://www.instagram.com/carrienewcomer/

In this episode of 'Eavesdrop with Meena,' Meena interviews Mike Goorhouse, founder of Inspiring Impact LLC, about his lifetime commitment to philanthropy and community building. They delve into the significance of community generosity, the intertwining of philanthropy and capitalism in American society, and the critical importance of fostering social connections and inclusive communities. The conversation covers the divisive nature of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the necessity of recognizing systemic biases and privileges. Goorhouse encourages a generous mindset and emphasizes the need for long-form conversations and civil discourse for meaningful change. The discussion also highlights the evolving landscape of philanthropy and the role of mega donors and institutions in shaping social impact. They conclude with a call to action for greater generosity and engagement in crucial conversations to build a more equitable society.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:57 Defining Community Philanthropy

01:35 The Role of Generosity in Community

02:28 Philanthropy and Capitalism in American Society

02:40 Personal Journey into Philanthropy

04:49 The Importance of Equal Opportunities and Outcomes

06:15 Challenges of DEI in Modern Society

10:42 The Power of Language in DEI Conversations

13:54 The Value of Long-Form Conversations

20:12 Encouraging Generosity and Community Support

25:53 Disagreement and Support in Nonprofits

27:07 Digital Conversations for Global Change

27:34 The Influence of Donors on Nonprofits

28:04 Rethinking Democracy and Resource Distribution

29:00 Philanthropy's Role in Policy and Society

30:51 Generosity Beyond Dollars and Cents

33:35 Women of Color Give: A Case Study in Community Philanthropy

36:04 West Michigan's Philanthropic Spirit

38:14 Capitalism, Values, and the Future of Philanthropy

46:27 Consulting for Nonprofit Impact

48:39 The Importance of Open Conversations

51:00 Personal Reflections on Money and Generosity

52:39 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Quote

Links discussed in this episode:

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

On the July 11th episode of Eavesdrop with Meena, Mike Goorhouse shares powerful insights on community generosity and the true essence of philanthropy. Discover how caring for those around us and breaking down barriers can transform our communities.

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

In this inspiring episode, we explore the Children's Healing Center, a unique recreational space in Grand Rapids, Michigan designed for kids with weak immune systems. Founded by Amanda Barbour after her battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma, the center offers a germ-free environment for children with complex medical conditions and their families to engage in art, play therapy, social support, tutoring and even a pre-school. Amanda shares her personal journey from a promising architecture career to founding this first-of-its-kind center, emphasizing the role of faith, community support, and the drive to impact others positively. The episode also features the exciting growth of the Center that has led to the building of an expanded facility in Grand Rapids, and a brand new Center on the south-eastern side of the state. Amanda also discusses how they work to make the Center a welcoming place for people of various faiths, and the importance of finding joy and purpose within life's challenges.

00:29 Introduction to the Center's Mission

01:21 Amanda's Personal Journey

02:51 The Dream Becomes Reality

05:15 Balancing Life and Work

06:51 Expanding the Vision

08:44 Faith and Purpose

14:02 Supporting Others Through Challenges

To learn more about the Children's Healing Center, visit childrenshealing.org, or find them on Instagram, Facebook, or X.

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

On the next Eavesdrop with Meena, we explore the ⁠Children's Healing Center⁠, a unique recreational space in Grand Rapids, Michigan designed for kids with weak immune systems. Founded by Amanda Barbour after her battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma, the center offers a germ-free environment for children with complex medical conditions and their families to engage in art, play therapy, social support, tutoring and even a pre-school. Amanda shares her personal journey from a promising architecture career to founding this first-of-its-kind center, emphasizing the role of faith, community support, and the drive to impact others positively. The episode also features the exciting growth of the Center that has led to the building of an expanded facility in Grand Rapids, and a brand new Center on the south-eastern side of the state. Amanda also discusses how they work to make the Center a welcoming place for people of various faiths, and the importance of finding joy and purpose within life's challenges.

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

Iris Kokalari, an international student of Albanian-Italian heritage, is currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Grand Valley State University (GVSU).  She hopes to stay in the West Michigan area after graduation before steering her career toward project management. She stays exceedingly busy as a resident assistant at GVSU, as a student worker in the School of Engineering, and as an intern at Magna Mirrors in Holland. Iris is a fellow of GVSU's Cook Leadership Academy, and she is passionate about community and people-centered values, rooted in her experience as a "double-immigrant." 

Written and Hosted by Meena Ariagno

Produced by Bruce Buursma

Recorded and Edited by Kevin Burgess 

Theme Music “Never Thought” by Christopher Paul

What can we learn about ourselves, our country and each other from a young global voice? It turns out plenty. Next time on Eavesdrop With Meena, meet Iris Kokolari, an Albanian Italian international student who speaks double immigrant, one of three children of hardworking European immigrants, Iris's story and transcontinental journey offer a clear eyed view of America's promise through the lens of this enterprising young globalist. Come rediscover America's old story, sprouting new seeds, brimming with local smiles, and pure Michigan optimism. Iris's episode drops June 6th.