Money to Give

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.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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In this special bonus episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck brings back policy expert Sara Barba for an urgent conversation on the rapidly evolving tax and policy landscape and what it could mean for the future of philanthropy. With new legislation moving through Congress and executive actions creating uncertainty across the sector, this episode offers a timely breakdown of the proposals that could directly impact nonprofits, donors, and charitable giving at large.

From increased taxes on private foundations to new limits on charitable deductions and renewed scrutiny around nonprofit activities, Rick and Sara unpack what’s actually happening behind the headlines and what’s still within your control. They also explore a potential bright spot in the return of the universal charitable deduction and why now is a critical moment for nonprofit leaders and advocates to engage. If you’ve been trying to make sense of the noise, this bonus episode delivers clarity, context, and a powerful reminder: the future of giving is still being written and your voice matters in shaping it.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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Contact Sara Barba:
Email: [email protected]

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) now hold over $250 billion and yet, many nonprofits still struggle to fully access and leverage this growing source of funding. So what’s really happening behind the scenes, and why are so many organizations unintentionally leaving money on the table? In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, to break down the evolving role of DAFs and what nonprofits must understand to stay competitive in today’s giving landscape. From outdated misconceptions to real-world data showing how DAF donors actually behave, this conversation challenges common narratives and reveals where the biggest opportunities lie.

Together, they explore how technology is transforming the donor experience, why ease of giving directly impacts donation size and frequency, and how nonprofits can better identify, segment, and engage DAF donors across all giving levels not just major gifts. Mitch also shares compelling insights on donor psychology, the rapid rise of mid-level DAF users, and the internal shifts organizations must make to adapt. If your nonprofit isn’t actively preparing for the future of giving, this episode will show you exactly where to start and how to turn friction into fundraising growth.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Mitch Stein:
Website:Chariot | Unify, Enrich, & Sync Your Offline Gifts
LinkedIn: Mitch Stein

What separates a story that simply informs from one that actually drives action and donations? In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck goes behind the camera with Jason Ellinger, co-founder of Beard & Bowler, to uncover the storytelling framework that helps nonprofits turn emotional connection into measurable impact. From his early days covering breaking news to now producing high-performing fundraising videos, Jason shares how shifting from negative storytelling to purpose-driven narratives completely transformed his career and the results his clients achieve.

This conversation breaks down the exact structure behind effective storytelling, why most nonprofit videos fall short, and how organizations can create content that resonates with donors, staff, and stakeholders alike. Jason also reveals the biggest misconception nonprofits have about video, why storytelling requires more than just a camera, and how a single well-crafted video can generate exponential ROI long after an event ends. If you want your message to not just be heard but felt and acted on this episode delivers a powerful roadmap to making your story truly matter.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Jason Ellinger:
Website: Video Production for Healthcare & Nonprofits | Beard & Bowler
LinkedIn: Jason Ellinger

What does housing and food insecurity really look like today and who is it affecting? The answer may be closer than you think. In this powerful episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Alex Ellis, a service coordinator at the Upper Valley Haven, to uncover the realities behind homelessness and hunger in communities across Vermont and New Hampshire. From rising housing costs and wage gaps to unexpected life events that can quickly destabilize families, Alex shares what it means to be on the front lines of this growing crisis.

But this conversation goes deeper than statistics it’s about people, dignity, and the invisible struggles happening all around us. Alex explains the critical role service coordinators play in helping individuals navigate complex systems, rebuild stability, and regain a sense of control over their lives. You’ll also hear powerful stories of resilience, the impact of stigma, and why asking for help is often the hardest step. This episode is a reminder that homelessness and hunger don’t look the way we expect and that meaningful change starts with awareness, empathy, and action.




Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Alex Ellis:
Website: Upper Valley Haven - Where People Find Hope & Discover Possibilities

What separates successful real estate investors from those who make costly mistakes? And how can hard assets like commercial real estate not only build wealth but also fuel meaningful philanthropy? In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Ben Reinberg, CEO of Alliance and author of Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times, to unpack the fundamentals too many investors overlook. From understanding market dynamics and avoiding over-leverage to navigating financing risks, Ben shares the real-world lessons that define long-term success in commercial real estate.

But this conversation goes beyond investing it explores how wealth built through hard assets can become a powerful vehicle for giving. Ben breaks down his “hard asset blueprint” for building, protecting, and transferring wealth across generations, while also highlighting how real estate can be leveraged for charitable impact. Whether you're an investor, advisor, or someone thinking about legacy, this episode offers a practical and inspiring roadmap to align financial growth with purpose-driven giving.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Ben Reinberg:
Website: Ben Reinberg | Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate Investments
Investment Oppurtunities: Commercial Real Estate Investing | Alliance CGC

Philanthropy doesn’t start with a check it starts with a moment. But how do high net worth families know when to begin the conversation, and what triggers the most meaningful giving strategies? In this second installment of our series, Rick Peck continues the conversation with Megan Helsner and Valerie Sussman to explore the real-life entry points that spark powerful philanthropic decisions. From estate planning and business exits to life transitions like retirement, loss, or even the birth of a child, this episode reveals how timing, emotion, and strategy intersect to shape impactful giving.

Together, they unpack how families can move beyond reactive giving into intentional, values-aligned philanthropy that evolves over time. You’ll hear how major world events, financial milestones, and even tax planning opportunities can open the door to deeper conversations and how flexibility in giving structures allows families to adapt while staying true to their mission. Whether you're advising clients or navigating your own philanthropic journey, this episode offers a clear roadmap for turning everyday moments into legacy-defining decisions.




Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar
Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter
LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Valerie Sussman:
Email: [email protected]

Tax reform is once again dominating the policy conversation in Washington, and the ripple effects could significantly impact nonprofits, donors, and the future of charitable giving. In this timely episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with policy expert Sara Barba to unpack the latest developments in federal tax policy and what they could mean for the nonprofit sector. With a newly inaugurated administration, rapid executive actions, and a major tax package looming in Congress, Sara explains why philanthropy may find itself at the center of critical budget negotiations.

Rick and Sara explore how budget reconciliation works, why lawmakers are searching for new revenue sources, and how charitable resources can sometimes become targets in those discussions. They also discuss the uncertainty nonprofits are facing as policy shifts unfold from potential tax changes affecting charitable giving to executive actions that may influence government funding for nonprofit organizations. Throughout the conversation, Sara provides clear insight into how these complex policy debates could reshape the philanthropic landscape in the months ahead.

Most importantly, this episode offers guidance on what nonprofit leaders, donors, and advocates can do right now. Sara explains why storytelling, coalition building, and direct engagement with elected officials are essential tools for protecting the nonprofit sector during times of policy change. If you care about the future of philanthropy and want to understand how government decisions influence charitable giving, this episode provides an important and practical perspective.


Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
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Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter
LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Contact Sara Barba:
Website: integerpolicy.com/philanthropy-policy/ 
Email: [email protected]

High-net-worth families have more options than ever when it comes to charitable giving, but choosing the right path requires more than generosity alone. In this first part of a two-part conversation, Rick sits down with philanthropic advisors Megan Helsner and Valerie Sussman to explore how families can align their wealth with their values while building thoughtful, effective giving strategies. Together, they unpack the many charitable vehicles available to families, from checkbook giving and donor-advised funds to community foundations, private foundations, public charities, and giving circles. They also explain why the “right” approach depends on a family’s goals, desired level of involvement, tax considerations, and long-term vision for impact.

This episode offers a practical and insightful look at how wealthy families can make intentional choices about giving in ways that support both present priorities and future generations. Megan and Valerie discuss the importance of flexibility, family control, learning, and shared purpose in charitable planning, while also highlighting how philanthropy can serve as a unifying force across generations. Whether a family wants a simple giving structure or a more customized philanthropic legacy, this conversation sheds light on how professional advisors help navigate the options with both heart and strategy in mind. If you work with donors, advise families, or are part of a family thinking seriously about philanthropy, this episode is a valuable guide to building generosity with purpose.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar
Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter
LinkedIn: Richard Peck

Federal grants can be transformative for nonprofits, but winning them takes far more than filling out an application and hoping for the best. In this episode of Money to Give, Rick Peck sits down with Bria Arlene, founder and CEO of IQ Ignited, to unpack what truly drives success in federal grant making. Bria shares how nonprofits can become “grant ready,” why rushing into the process is often a costly mistake, and what it really takes to stand out in a highly competitive funding environment. She also explains why the strongest proposals are built long before the writing begins.

Rick and Bria explore the most common challenges organizations face when pursuing federal funds, including onerous requirements, compliance concerns, capacity issues, and the pressure to chase money before an organization is fully prepared. Bria offers practical insight into how nonprofit leaders can strengthen their operations, position themselves for long-term success, and think more strategically about public funding. This episode is a must-listen for nonprofit professionals who want to better understand the federal grant landscape and approach it with greater confidence, clarity, and discipline.



Contact Rick Peck:
Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com
Email: [email protected]
Book A call: Rick Peck's Calendar
Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter
LinkedIn: Richard Peck