Unified Purpose
Unified Purpose
Penji
Unified Purpose is the perfect place to look for advice on how to grow your non-profit or if you’re just looking for a wholesome story to brighten up your day. Brought to you by Penji, every episode follows non-profit leaders through their struggles, hopes, and vision for a better future for the population they serve. Tune in to explore the ins-and-outs of running a non-profit organization and helpful tips on how to manage things to make sure that those that need care the most aren’t being forgotten.
How Bold Ideas Build Trust in Science with Brooke Grindlinger
On today’s episode, Penji Partnership Coordinator, Oliver, talks with Dr. Brooke Grindlinger, Chief Scientific Officer at the New York Academy of Sciences, about the importance of trust in scientific discovery, the role of philanthropy in funding bold research, and how the Academy empowers young scientists and students around the world. Together, they explore how early investments in science can lead to innovations that change lives — from breaking down harmful “forever chemicals” to developing wearable brain imaging technology that redefines patient care.
Nov 11, 2025
42 min
Building Compassion Beyond Walls with Terence Lester
On today’s episode, Dr. Terence Lester talks to Oliver from Penji about the power of compassion, storytelling, and visibility in addressing homelessness. They dive deep into the origins of Love Beyond Walls, the non-profit organization Dr. Lester founded to restore dignity and hope to those experiencing homelessness. Together, they explore how empathy-driven action, community storytelling, and long-term empowerment can create real social impact. From living on the streets to raise awareness, to building resource hubs in schools, Dr. Lester shares how simple acts of love can transform lives — and how we can all take part in making the invisible seen.
Nov 6, 2025
29 min
Ronald McDonald House's Global Mission with Joanna Sabato
In this episode of Unified Purpose, host Daniela speaks with Joanna Sabotau from Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), an organization that supports millions of families around the world during their child’s medical journey. From its origins in Philadelphia to its presence in over 60 countries, RMHC has become a lifeline for families with critically ill children, offering free housing, meals, emotional support, and even early cancer detection initiatives like those pioneered in Brazil. Joanna shares the organization’s legacy, its evolution into a global force for good, and how RMHC is preparing for the next 50 years with a rebrand, expanded impact, and a goal to double the number of families served by 2030. This is a powerful episode filled with heart, purpose, and an invitation to be part of something greater.
Nov 4, 2025
31 min
Inspiring Conservation and Education with Patricia Steinmeyer
On today’s episode, Patricia Steinmeyer talks to Oliver from Unified Purpose about the powerful role Brookfield Zoo Chicago plays in connecting children, teachers, and communities to wildlife and conservation. Patricia shares her journey from law school to education, her passion for supporting teachers through the Teaching Safari program, and how the zoo extends far beyond its walls as a living mission for conservation. Together, they explore how joy, curiosity, and hands-on learning can inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.
Oct 23, 2025
32 min
The Power of Community in Ending Homelessness with Ted Taylor
On today’s episode, Ted Taylor talks to Oliver about his journey from a small-town businessman searching for purpose to becoming the Executive Director of Family Promise of Greater Phoenix. They dive into how faith communities, volunteers, and innovative solutions like container housing villages and pet sanctuaries are transforming the fight against family homelessness. Ted shares not only the growth of Family Promise over the last 15 years, but also powerful insights on faith, compassion, and the importance of community-driven solutions.
Oct 21, 2025
28 min
Building Youth-Led Policy and Advocacy with Nia West-Bey
On today’s episode, Nia West-Bey talks to Oliver, Penji’s Partnership Advisor, about her journey as Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy. Together, they explore how the TIP Collaborative spun off from a larger organization to become a truly youth-centered advocacy force, why centering the voices of young people—especially those furthest from power—leads to stronger solutions, and how intergenerational collaboration can prepare us for a more equitable future.
Oct 16, 2025
31 min
When Life Gives You Lemons with Corrine Ellsworth Beaumont
On today’s episode, Corrine Ellsworth Beaumont talks to Shannon, Penji’s Partnership Coordinator, about the creative journey behind Know Your Lemons, the global breast cancer awareness campaign that has reached millions through the power of design. They dive into how humor and approachable visuals can make difficult topics easier to understand, the importance of early detection, and the inspiring story of how Corrine turned a graduate school project into an award-winning nonprofit with impact in 75+ countries.
Oct 14, 2025
38 min
Building a Climate Movement Through Work with Eugene Kirpichov
Penji’s Non-Profit Community Coordinator, Oliver, talks with Eugene Kirpichov about sharing his inspiring journey from a career in big tech at Google to leading one of the world’s largest professional communities focused on climate solutions. Together, they explore how professionals across industries can transform their skills into powerful levers for climate action, the challenges and breakthroughs of starting a nonprofit during the pandemic, and why building leadership from the ground up is key to creating systemic change.
Oct 9, 2025
29 min
Building Inclusive Communities for Families with Special Needs with Stephen ‘Doc’ Hunsley
Penji’s Non-Profit Community Coordinator, Oliver, talks with Stephen “Doc” Hunsley about the heart behind building inclusive communities for families and individuals with special needs. They dive into why many families feel isolated, how organizations and churches can go beyond simply “checking the box,” and what it truly looks like to create spaces of belonging. Doc also shares his personal journey and the mission of SOAR—helping families not just survive, but thrive with the gift of time, support, and community.
Oct 7, 2025
37 min
Changing the Odds for Kids with Maria McRoberts
Penji’s Non-Profit Community Coordinator, Oliver, talks with Maria McRoberts about her journey as Art Director at Think Together, a nonprofit that partners with schools to provide after-school and enrichment programs for underserved youth. Maria shares how Think Together supports kids from their earliest learning years through high school and even college, offering them not just academic help but also creative outlets like music, dance, and arts. She also talks about the challenges of navigating education during the pandemic, the importance of mental health, and how former students often return to give back as mentors, staff, or community leaders—creating a powerful cycle of impact.
Oct 2, 2025
31 min
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