Join this conversation with Dr. André Habisch, chair of the Bayer Cares Foundation and a leading voice at the intersection of ethics, economics, and social innovation, as he reflects on how moral philosophy and economic systems are deeply intertwined. Drawing on decades of experience across academia and policy, Habisch explores the principle of subsidiarity—solving problems at the most local level possible while enabling broader coordination when needed. From postwar Germany’s reconstruction to today’s challenges in environmental stewardship and shared resources, he illustrates how decentralized, trust-based systems can foster resilience and innovation. He also offers a thoughtful lens on leadership, distinguishing between acting from conviction and acting with responsibility. It’s a grounded, insightful discussion on building systems that better serve people and the planet.

In this episode of Founder of Impact, Ratul Narain shares the journey behind Bempu, the India-based social enterprise he founded to help protect vulnerable newborns through simple, life-saving technologies. He reflects on building Bempu from an engineering-driven idea into a growing company, navigating moments of deep uncertainty, and staying resilient through setbacks, including COVID, layoffs, and the challenges of scaling in public health systems. Along the way, Ratul offers a thoughtful look at leadership, community, and the steady persistence required to solve hard problems. It is an honest and hopeful conversation about innovation, purpose, and what it takes to give more babies a healthier start in life.

In this episode of Line of Sight, Partner and Global Knowledge Lead of Dalberg Advisors, Kusi Hornberger, shares how his path into impact investing evolved into a deeper conviction: that capital can be a force for social and economic change. Now based in Washington, DC, a city that sits at the heart of global policy and finance, Kusi brings a unique perspective on how public systems and private capital intersect, shaping markets whether we support them or challenge them. We explore the “missing middle,” the overlooked small and growing enterprises with the potential to drive outsized impact, and how sustainable impact structures can bridge critical financing gaps. It’s a thoughtful conversation on reimagining capital so that smaller organizations are empowered to create change at the same scale as much larger institutions.

Sara Leedom — Co-founder & COO of Inkomoko

Centering Dignity and Economic Power with Inkomoko’s Sara Leedom

In this episode of Founder of Impact, the spotlight turns to Inkomoko with cofounder and COO Sara Leedom, who shares how the organization is transforming the economic future of refugees and micro-entrepreneurs across East Africa. We explore the origins of Inkomoko’s model, the realities facing displaced entrepreneurs, and the organization’s commitment to centering dignity in every aspect of its work. It is a powerful reminder that when refugees are given the tools to lead their own growth, they do far more than survive; they thrive, innovate, and strengthen entire local economies.

In this episode, Doug Hewitt, CEO of 1951 Coffee Company, shares the powerful mission behind his nonprofit social enterprise — using the coffee industry as a platform to create jobs, dignity, and hope for displaced people from around the world. He tells the story that sparked 1951 Coffee, sheds light on the global scale of forced displacement, and explores the guiding philosophy behind his work: stay rooted in purpose, but flexible in the path. It's a conversation about compassion, innovation, and building a more inclusive future — one cup at a time.

Julie Schaefer, founder and CEO of Winning Presence, has spent over two decades helping leaders and organizations unlock performance through communication. In this episode, she shares her signature approach, “strategy through storytelling,” and explains why purpose-based leadership is more than a mission statement—it’s a compass for decision-making, culture, and crisis response. Drawing on her corporate experience and work with executives worldwide, Julie offers insights on building authenticity, engaging employees, and turning values into actions. Tune in to learn how leaders can develop a “winning presence” that inspires trust, drives results, and leaves a lasting impact.

In this episode, we explore the power of transforming organic waste into renewable energy with Madrin Maina, the Africa Director of Sistema.bio, a social enterprise that is creating opportunities through its patented biodigester technology. Madrin shares her journey as an entrepreneur — what inspired her path, the challenges she’s faced, and how her leadership is helping families and farmers save money, reclaim time, and improve their quality of life. Along the way, we explore the ripple effects of clean energy: healthier communities, stronger local economies, and a more sustainable planet. Sistema.bio is part of the portfolio of social enterprises supported through the Miller Center–Chevron Climate Resilience Initiative, which strives to help reduce poverty, drive economic and social opportunities, and develop the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Asia Pacific region.

In this episode, we sit down with Nathalie to explore her journey as a social entrepreneur blending culture, community, and commerce. Nathalie shares how LIKHA began, the lessons she’s learned leading a mission-driven business, and the power of storytelling and craftsmanship in driving impact. From the early challenges to building a global brand rooted in Filipino heritage, this conversation offers an honest, inspiring look at what it means to build with purpose.

How can maps help solve the world’s toughest challenges? Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist David Yarnold shares stories from his new book, The Geography of Hope, revealing how Geographic Information Systems (GIS) fuel collaboration and optimism worldwide. From women de-miners in Sri Lanka building livelihoods and status, to African conservationists balancing development and biodiversity, to city planners in Prague tackling urban sustainability, Yarnold shows how data and visual storytelling create common ground across cultures. He also reflects on career shifts, the power of showing vs. telling, and why every organization needs better storytellers. A compelling look at where technology, social justice, and hope intersect.