The Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) is the only NGO that concentrates solely on the conservation and management of giraffe in the wild throughout Africa. I was fortunate enough to spend time in Namibia with fellow Aussie Julian Fennessy and his wife Stephanie to learn about their field of expertise, their experience in creating GCF, what their day-to-day activities involve, the challenges of conserving giraffe and halting their rapid decline, the importance of a strong funding base, and so much more. 

Radek Sali is the perfect example of a human who is being the change he wants to see in the world. His formative young years and the influence of his family developed an incredible work ethic and this combined with his intellect and sense of self led him to become one of Australia’s most successful entrepreneurs. Radek has turned that success into a deeply inspiring level of community involvement and the support of conscious capitalism. You can’t help but be moved and motivated, and I hope you enjoy listening to Radek as much I did.

Jana’s achievements are well documented and her public and private highs and lows have been played out in the media. It would be hard to find a more honest, authentic, driven and passionate person whose nurturing nature has seen her become a mother of six, and now a doctor. She uses her reputation and her name as a platform for advocating for the topics and issues that are traditionally taboo, and she acknowledges the realness of life. Our conversation was deeply inspiring, and so much fun.

Our mission and intent with The Hidden Philanthropist was to explore philanthropy in all its forms and give you an insight into the myriad of ways you can give back to your community. We also wanted to explore how those from all walks of life, with many of experiences and meandering paths, can find themselves in a position where they can support, guide and assist those in need – and who can indeed provide a voice for survivors. Russell Manser is a diamond on the rough, and he’s here to share his hard-hitting and heart-breaking story, and how he found his way. Please note that this podcasts discusses serious issues of sexual abuse and drug addition which may cause distress. The Voice of a Survivor assists victims of institutional abuse, call them on 1300 863 509  if you need to talk to someone who understands.

A humble man with a huge heart and deep intellect, Justin Dowel is not used to sharing his story, but it is definitely a story worth listening to. Having been instrumental in creating one of Australia’s leading environmentally-friendly household brands, Justin elevated the company his father founded to great heights, and the philanthropic endeavours undertaken by the organisation are deeply impressive. A quiet achiever, Justin gives us an insight into the world of social responsibility.

As half of the dynamic duo behind The Big Group, Chyka Keebaugh has become a much loved public figure who has a natural flair for making life beautiful. You can hear the love, kindness and generosity in her voice and she inspires us all to give back in any way we can. With two lifestyle books under her belt, Chyka is a sought-after public speaker, she collaborates with leading Australian brands and lends her name and support to causes that resonate with her and her family. She talks openly about her journey, her successes and her learnings, and why it’s so important to share kindness at every opportunity.

A huge thank you to Daniel Flynn, the creator of Thankyou – one of Australia’s most successful philanthropic ventures. Learning about his true lightbulb moment that changed the course of his life, and in turn helped millions of people around the world, is so thrilling and moving. And his extraordinary marketing mind has created a cut-through that few brands have been able to achieve. On this podcast Daniel shares his vision, his mission and his exciting new ventures, and the future certainly looks bright.

If you haven’t read any of Hugh Mackay’s books, watched him give keynote addresses or heard him on radio discussing his views on social anthropology, I hope this inspiring conversation will spur you on to learn more about this great man and his brilliant mind. His grasp on the issues that face humankind initiate debate, and at the core of it all, his mantra is all about truly listening so that others are heard, and that kindness can help cure all.

It’s very rare to meet someone who has the depth of experience in the philanthropic space. Inspired by Mother Teresa from an early age, Moira Kelly’s life journey is deeply moving, heartwarming and inspiring, and it’s hard to grasp the width and depth of her devotion to those in need from every race and religion. Her heart is as big as an ocean, and her laughter and sense of humour contagious. Hearing her story was one of my life’s highlights, and I hope you find it just as enthralling as I did.

Jeremy Meltzer, founder of i=Change, is a philanthropic powerhouse and a passionate crusader for human rights, and in particular for gender injustice, all over the world. His fascinating story gives us an insight into the steps we can all take towards making a difference, every day, and his experience and expertise expertly marries charitable enterprises, technology, consumerism and sustainability.