Built for Good

Built for Good is for the community builders driving missions that matter. Host Kian Alavi shares real stories, hard-won lessons, and data that challenges assumptions, helping you move with more clarity and less guesswork. Each episode delivers actionable insights to accelerate decisions and make meaningful work less of a solo struggle. Now… let’s build for good. Built for Good is brought to you by Mazlo. Mazlo simplifies accounting, banking, compliance, and fundraising—so you can focus on your mission, not your back office.

Built for Good is a business podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 0 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Unknown Host hosts Built for Good, a business show with 0 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

• 

  Episode #14

  The Surprising Impact of Food Production on Climate and Biodiversity

  Sep 29, 20261h 7m

  In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi sits down with Dr. Jason Clay, Senior Vice President, Markets & Food and Executive Director of the Markets Institute at the World Wildlife Fund, to explore how food systems impact climate change and biodiversity, and what we can do to create a more sustainable future. Dr. Clay shares insights on sustainable agriculture, innovation, consumer choices, and the systemic changes needed to build healthier and more resilient food systems. In this episode, we explore: The global impact of food production on climate, biodiversity, and water use Innovations in sustainable farming and supply chain efficiency The idea of “producing more with less” by improving efficiency and reducing waste The role of technology, small-scale processing, and localized food systems How consumer choices and market signals can accelerate change Policy and systemic approaches to transforming agriculture The importance of biodiversity and ecosystem services for food security Practical steps we can take, including supporting local farmers, buying seasonal food, reducing waste, and staying informed Explore World Wildlife Fund: https://www.worldwildlife.org/ Explore Mazlo: https://www.mazlo.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Dr. Jason Clay 00:37 - Overview of the food system's impact on climate and biodiversity 02:09 - The challenge of feeding a growing population sustainably 03:52 - Growing up on a Missouri farm and early decision-making skills 06:29 - How farm life teaches responsibility and responsibility in food choices 08:46 - The urgency of systemic change in agriculture and food production 10:56 - Addressing global water and land challenges through regional solutions 13:14 - The importance of biodiversity for crop pollination and climate resilience 15:17 - Food's dual role as a greenhouse gas emitter and sink 17:03 - How nature-based solutions can sequester carbon 18:04 - California's water crisis and implications for agriculture 20:46 - When might a global food crisis emerge without intervention? 22:29 - Innovations: regional food hubs, local processing, and crop diversification 25:28 - Supporting local and seasonal foods in American diets 28:12 - The importance of transparency in food production and supply chains 31:49 - Tackling food waste and improving storage practices 35:40 - The influence of policy, education, and systemic change 40:35 - Strategies for individual consumers to support sustainable food systems 44:36 - The role of corporations and incentives in transforming agriculture 50:04 - Infrastructure investments and smallholder inclusion 55:18 - The importance of data, collaboration, and shared learning across sectors 59:37 - Creating community and cooperative models for equipment and labor sharing 62:53 - Viewing food production through a kaleidoscope of possibilities 65:09 - How to start becoming informed and involved as consumers 66:36 - Final messages: supporting local, seasonal choices, and staying informed

  ListenShow Notes
• 

  Episode #13

  Part 2: The Hidden Power of Saying "Yes" More in the Nonprofit Sector

  Sep 15, 202655 min

  Summary (If you want to hear Part 1 of Kian Alavi’s conversation with Oliver Hack, be sure to check out the previous episode.) In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi continues his conversation with Oliver Hack, Director of Fiscal Sponsorship at Social Good Fund, for a conversation about creativity, leadership, innovation, and the realities of building sustainable organizations in the nonprofit sector. Oliver shares his perspective on creating space for creativity, encouraging courageous leadership, and building systems that allow teams and mission-driven leaders to thrive. He explores the role of fiscal sponsorship in helping people turn their ideas into meaningful work while emphasizing the importance of studying the problem, understanding the business and revenue model, and making thoughtful decisions before starting a nonprofit. The conversation also dives into the importance of community and collaboration within the fiscal sponsorship field, the value of saying “yes” more often, and how leaders can balance passion with risk, sustainability, and long-term impact. Oliver discusses why organizations sometimes need to adapt their strategies without losing sight of their core purpose, and why courage, flexibility, and resilience are essential for navigating challenging times. From fostering innovation to making smart strategic choices, Oliver offers practical insights for nonprofit leaders and community builders looking to create lasting impact. Soundbites: "Innovation in the nonprofit sector is rare, but it's crucial to push beyond what's there and above where you think you can." "Leadership requires earning the right and having the courage to make hard choices in a highly regulated environment." "Institutional funders need to seed nonprofit endowments to ensure long-term sustainability and allow for strategic decisions." "The nonprofit sector is about community coming together to solve community issues, and trust is essential." "Encouraging an environment of creativity and rewarding it is key to solving problems in innovative ways. Links: Get the book "The Jewish Gospels": https://www.amazon.com/Miles-Davis-Autobiography-Orange-Press/dp/1595584684 Explore Social Impact Commons: https://www.socialimpactcommons.org/ Explore Schulman Consulting: https://schulmanconsulting.com/ Explore Social Good Fund: https://www.socialgoodfund.org/ Explore Mazlo: https://www.mazlo.com/ Timestamps: 0:00 - Hook 0:16 - Introduction To Built To Good 0:47 - Introduction To Oliver Hack 02:20 - Funding Creativity 03:44 - Navigating Nonprofit Funding and Creativity 06:46 - The Importance of Rest and Creative Thinking 09:40 - The Four-Day Work Week: A New Perspective 12:17 - Understanding Fiscal Sponsorship and Its Challenges 16:58 - Building Community in Fiscal Sponsorship 20:22 - Innovation in Nonprofit Sector: Saying Yes More 23:19 - The Role of Passion in Nonprofit Leadership 26:48 - Evaluating Nonprofit Ideas: The Importance of Research 32:09 - The Reality of Nonprofit Startups 37:41 - Strategic Decision Making in Nonprofits 47:39 - Courage and Adaptability in Nonprofit Leadership

  ListenShow Notes
• 

  Episode #12

  Part 1: The Hidden Power of Saying "Yes" More in Nonprofit Leadership

  Sep 8, 202646 min

  In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi sits down with Oliver Hack, Director of Fiscal Sponsorship at Social Good Fund, for a powerful conversation about nonprofit leadership, financial sustainability, innovation, and the courage required to lead through challenging times. Drawing from decades of experience across philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and fiscal sponsorship, Oliver shares practical insights on building strong teams, understanding your organization’s financial position, and creating systems that allow organizations to grow beyond any one individual. Kian and Oliver also explore the unique challenges of the nonprofit business model, the responsibility of nonprofit boards, the importance of investing in people, and why organizations need more flexibility and financial reserves to navigate difficult moments. The conversation closes with a powerful discussion about creativity, experimentation, and pushing beyond what already exists to create meaningful innovation in the nonprofit sector. Get the book "The Jewish Gospels": https://www.amazon.com/Miles-Davis-Autobiography-Orange-Press/dp/1595584684 Explore Social Impact Commons: https://www.socialimpactcommons.org/ Explore Schulman Consulting: https://schulmanconsulting.com/ Explore Social Good Fund: https://www.socialgoodfund.org/ Explore Mazlo: https://www.mazlo.com/ Soundbites: Soundbite 1: Nonprofit Leadership Insight: Highlight a moment where the speaker discusses the importance of mentorship and leadership qualities. Soundbite 2: Challenges in Nonprofit Sector: Focus on a segment discussing financial challenges and the need for sustainable business models. Soundbite 3: Innovation and Creativity: Capture a part where the speaker talks about fostering creativity within constraints. Soundbite 4: Role of Boards: Select a portion discussing the responsibilities and impact of effective board members. Timestamps: 00:00 - Hook 00:22 - Introduction to Built For Good 00:53 - Introduction to Oliver Hack and the episode's theme 02:30 - History between Oliver and Kian 04:10 - The importance of organizational legacy and culture 7:15 - Financial literacy as a cornerstone of nonprofit leadership 9:16 - Challenges faced by nonprofits in a turbulent economy 12:16 - Rethinking revenue models and the irrational nonprofit business 15:16 - The critical role of business background in social sector success 18:15 - The capacity of boards and how to improve their impact 21:16 - Using endowments and reserves to weather financial crises 24:20 - The power of giving nonprofits more room to innovate 27:16 - Courage and confidence for nonprofit leaders 30:15 - Managing the human side: relational work and dealing with friction 33:00 - The importance of intentional onboarding and continuous learning 37:16 - The value of creative experimentation and learning from constraints 41:16 - Supporting staff well-being through rest and intentional time off 46:15 - Ending

  ListenShow Notes
• 

  Episode #11

  Mastering Fiscal Sponsorship: Models, Challenges, and the Future

  Aug 25, 20261h 19m

  In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi sits down with Gene Takagi, Principal of NEO Law Group. Gene Takagi shares deep insights into fiscal sponsorship, its models, challenges, and the future of nonprofit governance. This conversation explores how to standardize understanding, improve advocacy, and build a resilient sector. Key discussion topics include the importance of Models of fiscal sponsorship (Model A and C), Legal and ethical considerations in fiscal sponsorship, and Strategies for sector organization and advocacy. Explore New Law Group: https://www.neolawgroup.com Explore Mazlo: https://www.mazlo.com/ Sound Bites "We need a common language to avoid confusion." "Community building is the future of sector resilience." "Are we a Starbucks or McDonald's model?" "Funders should invest more in sector education." "Public trust and legal compliance are vital." Disclaimer This topic may contain legal materials and information intended solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing contained herein constitutes legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney. Chapters 00:00 Listen First Then Come Up With A Solution 0:20 Built For Good Introduction 0:51 Gene Introduction And Background 1:40 Acknowledging Each Other Work 2:43 Understanding Fiscal Sponsorship 7:27 Challenges and Misunderstandings in Fiscal Sponsorship 13:24 The Need for Stronger Advocacy and Education 21:23 Language and Communication in Fiscal Sponsorship 31:16 Funding and Support for Fiscal Sponsorship 34:18 The Evolution of Fiscal Sponsorship Guidelines 38:40 Community Engagement in Fiscal Sponsorship 40:48 Understanding Fiscal Sponsorship Models 48:52 Innovations in Fiscal Sponsorship 53:22 Legal and Compliance Challenges 59:17 Building Public Trust and Accountability 01:06:01 Legal Support for Nonprofits 01:13:29 The Future of Nonprofits and Community Building 1:18:38 Ending

  ListenShow Notes
• 

  Episode #11

  The Hidden Crisis in Nonprofits: Data, Burnout, & Funding Cuts

  Jul 21, 202636 min

  In this episode of Built for Good, host Kian Alavi sits down with Shannon Moe, founder of SMC Scribes. Shannon shares the evolution of SMC Scribes, a nonprofit consulting and grant writing organization focused on social justice nonprofits. The organization helps teams strengthen funding strategies, improve storytelling, and build sustainable infrastructure so they can better serve their communities. She discusses her background in frontline community work, including early experience with Haight-Ashbury Free Medical Clinics and later work in nonprofit leadership, activism, and hospitality through Revolution Cafe in San Francisco. These experiences shaped her approach to social impact work and her belief in grassroots, place-based organizing. A key focus of the conversation is how SMC Scribes operates as a team-based grant writing and strategy organization rather than a single consultant model. Shannon explains how the team breaks down RFPs, conducts research, performs equity reviews, and ensures that nonprofit language reflects the authentic voices of staff and program participants. The discussion also explores the growing crisis in nonprofit funding. With federal cuts, increased competition for foundation grants, and the rise of AI-generated applications, nonprofits are facing increasingly low success rates. Shannon emphasizes the importance of authenticity, relationships with funders, and leading with success rather than deficit-based narratives. A major theme is the disconnect between frontline staff and executive-level decision-making in nonprofits. Shannon highlights how misalignment often leads to unrealistic grant deliverables and operational strain, especially when program teams are not involved in funding design and proposals. The episode also covers the increasing importance of data infrastructure in nonprofits. Shannon discusses how many organizations struggle with fragmented spreadsheets, manual reporting systems, and lack of capacity for data management. She advocates for funders to invest in administrative infrastructure, not just program costs, to ensure real impact measurement is possible. Another key topic is collaboration within the nonprofit ecosystem. Shannon encourages organizations to move away from competition and instead form partnerships, co-apply for funding, and build shared strategies to strengthen collective impact. The episode closes with reflections on leadership, sustainability, and purpose. Shannon emphasizes the importance of staying mission-aligned, listening to communities, and building systems that center frontline knowledge and lived experience. This episode is especially valuable for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, grant writers, and anyone interested in building stronger, more collaborative systems for social impact. Explore SMC Scribes: https://smcscribes.com/ Explore Mazlo: https://mazlo.com About Mazlo: Mazlo helps fiscal sponsors automate fund management, enforce compliance, and reduce financial risk, all without disrupting your existing systems or workflows. Timestamped Overview 00:00:29 Why moment and early work in frontline nonprofits 00:01:25 Activism culture and San Francisco influence 00:04:16 Revolution Cafe and transition into nonprofit work 00:05:27 Founding and evolution of SMC Scribes 00:05:54 Team-based grant writing model explained 00:08:13 Using authentic nonprofit voice in storytelling 00:10:01 Assessing funding history and donor ecosystems 00:11:55 Crisis in nonprofit funding and 2% success rates 00:12:50 Leading with success instead of deficit framing 00:14:04 Humanizing homelessness and lived experience stories 00:17:15 AI and the flood of grant applications 00:18:16 Rethinking grantmaking through relationships 00:19:27 Infrastructure gaps in nonprofit operations 00:21:47 Collaboration vs competition in nonprofit sector 00:23:00 “No systemic change without the frontline” 00:24:09 Disconnect between leadership and program staff 00:28:59 Executive director isolation and burnout 00:31:12 Why nonprofits are harder than traditional businesses 00:31:49 Importance of better data systems 00:33:16 AI tools for nonprofit reporting and operations 00:34:36 Funders need to support administrative costs 00:36:26 What separates thriving vs surviving nonprofits 00:37:31 Relationship building with funders 00:39:56 Reducing fear around AI in nonprofits 00:41:24 Advice to younger self 00:42:06 Community, purpose, and long-term fulfillment #nonprofit #socialimpact #fundraising #leadership #grantwriting #communitybuilding #philanthropy #socialjustice #impact #collaboration

  ListenShow Notes

Recent guests on Built for Good. Study who booked and why before you pitch.

Based on semantic analysis of episode topics and host coverage, this show is a strong guest fit for executives in:

Industry fit is computed by PitchCentric using vector embeddings of the show's episode catalog.