In this episode, we speak with Eric Peterson, co-founder and co-director of the Tula Foundation and founder of the Hakai Institute. Eric reflects on selling his medical imaging company, Mitra, and choosing to mobilize nearly all of the proceeds into science-driven initiatives focused on coastal research in British Columbia and public health programs in Guatemala.

He shares why he sees himself as an operator rather than a philanthropist, why he believes wealth should be put to work rather than preserved, and how long-term relationships with local communities and First Nations have shaped his approach.

A thoughtful conversation on wealth mobilization, leadership, and building public impact in an unpredictable world.

This episode also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the podcast, with Jonathan Harline, Titilayo Adedeji, Mandy Pui, and Mekayla Dionne joining as new hosts for the season.

TAKEAWAYS
-Eric Peterson transitioned from a tech entrepreneur to philanthropy
-He emphasizes the importance of personal involvement
-Building relationships with communities is crucial for lasting results
-Collaboration with Indigenous Nations strengthens project success
-Wealth mobilization can create more impact than wealth preservation
-Philanthropy is about putting resources to work efficiently
-Collaboration plays a central role in addressing global challenges
-Planning for the future is complex in an unpredictable world
-People are central to successful initiatives
-Work should be meaningful and enjoyable

CHAPTERS

00:00 Journey from Tech to Philanthropy
02:44 Transitioning from Donor to Operator
05:29 The Importance of People in Philanthropy
08:10 Building Relationships with First Nations
10:50 Collaborative Science and Community Engagement
19:28 Empowering Organizations Through Modern Techniques
20:27 The Philosophy of Spending Down
23:28 Investment vs Philanthropy: Understanding the Ecosystem
26:01 Rejecting Labels: The True Nature of Philanthropy
29:33 Reflections on Life Choices and Future Generations

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CREDITS

Guest: Eric Peterson
Co-founder and Co-director of the Tula Foundation and Founder of the Hakai Institute

Tula Website: https://tula.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-peterson-a0672826b
Foundation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tula-foundation

HOSTS

Jonathan Harline
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankharline/

Mandy Pui
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-pui-2259617b/

Titilayo Adedeji
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/titilayoadedeji/

Mekayla Dionne
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mekayla-dionne-57b091234/

PRODUCTION

Keenlii
Website: www.keenlii.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenliico/

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ABOUT PHILANTHROTHINK

PhilanthroThink complements Carleton University’s Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership program. In each episode, we sit down with wealth creators, philanthropic leaders, and innovative thinkers to explore the real challenges, opportunities, and strategies shaping the sector at home and abroad.