60 acast.com The Giving Habit https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit en Stephen Keys Stephen Keys Midlife has a way of asking bigger questions. What am I building? Who am I building it for?


For a lot of people, that question leads somewhere unexpected: giving back. But knowing you want to give and knowing how to start are two different things.


That's exactly why The Giving Habit exists. Host Stephen Keys sits down with social impact leaders, volunteers, and nonprofit founders to find out what it really looks like to show up for your community.


Every story will leave you with more than inspiration. It'll leave you with a choice.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Midlife has a way of asking bigger questions. What am I building? Who am I building it for?


For a lot of people, that question leads somewhere unexpected: giving back. But knowing you want to give and knowing how to start are two different things.


That's exactly why The Giving Habit exists. Host Stephen Keys sits down with social impact leaders, volunteers, and nonprofit founders to find out what it really looks like to show up for your community.


Every story will leave you with more than inspiration. It'll leave you with a choice.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false Stephen Keys info+6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83@mg-eu.acast.com 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 the-giving-habit episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/cover/1782008616704-9d1c0d97-f940-432b-8a52-330ee3505737.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit The Giving Habit How Philanthropic Advisors Help Families Forge New Traditions Around Giving (w/ Dien Yuen) How Philanthropic Advisors Help Families Forge New Traditions Around Giving (w/ Dien Yuen) Wed, 19 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT 47:31 6a8517069cb9faa61a16b061 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/how-philanthropic-advisors-help-families-forge-new-tradition 6a8517069cb9faa61a16b061 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 how-philanthropic-advisors-help-families-forge-new-tradition full 1 8 In this episode of The Giving Habit, we speak with CEO of Daylight Advisors Dien Yuen to understand the role of philanthropic advisors, how families can benefit from a shared transition towards generosity, as well as how Dien's own experience as a refugee shaped her view of social impact.


Find out more about Daylight Advisors: https://www.daylightadvisors.com/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Dien's journey and expertise

02:07 Early influences: refugee experience and community support

03:44 The founding of Daylight Advisors and its mission

05:06 Skills and attributes of effective philanthropic advisors

06:56 The impact of the great wealth transfer on advising practices

09:05 Engaging families across cultures and generations

12:32 The importance of values, purpose, and flourishing

16:48 Cultural dexterity and communication in advising

19:51 Unpacking family stories, legacy, and the six Ts framework

24:28 Cultural norms and legal considerations in estate planning

30:43 Opportunities for social impact leaders and fundraisers

37:35 The future of philanthropy advisory and emerging trends


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#philanthropy #charity #socialimpact

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of The Giving Habit, we speak with CEO of Daylight Advisors Dien Yuen to understand the role of philanthropic advisors, how families can benefit from a shared transition towards generosity, as well as how Dien's own experience as a refugee shaped her view of social impact.


Find out more about Daylight Advisors: https://www.daylightadvisors.com/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Dien's journey and expertise

02:07 Early influences: refugee experience and community support

03:44 The founding of Daylight Advisors and its mission

05:06 Skills and attributes of effective philanthropic advisors

06:56 The impact of the great wealth transfer on advising practices

09:05 Engaging families across cultures and generations

12:32 The importance of values, purpose, and flourishing

16:48 Cultural dexterity and communication in advising

19:51 Unpacking family stories, legacy, and the six Ts framework

24:28 Cultural norms and legal considerations in estate planning

30:43 Opportunities for social impact leaders and fundraisers

37:35 The future of philanthropy advisory and emerging trends


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#philanthropy #charity #socialimpact

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Why Evidence-Based Philanthropy Creates Better Social Impact || The Giving Habit - Reflections Why Evidence-Based Philanthropy Creates Better Social Impact || The Giving Habit - Reflections Fri, 14 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT 5:53 6a7f2de503af5e222a1dd975 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/why-evidence-based-philanthropy-creates-better-social-impact 6a7f2de503af5e222a1dd975 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 why-evidence-based-philanthropy-creates-better-social-impact bonus Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we spoke with Tom Steele from Centre for Evidence and Implementation, to unpack how their research and unique approach allows charities to design more effective social change.


In this special follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys looks back at his conversation with Tom to highlight exactly what makes CEI's mission special, and why understanding how a strategy works is crucial to improving social impact.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we spoke with Tom Steele from Centre for Evidence and Implementation, to unpack how their research and unique approach allows charities to design more effective social change.


In this special follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys looks back at his conversation with Tom to highlight exactly what makes CEI's mission special, and why understanding how a strategy works is crucial to improving social impact.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Why Good Programs Fail At Scale || Tom Steele (CEI) on Research-Driven Social Impact Why Good Programs Fail At Scale || Tom Steele (CEI) on Research-Driven Social Impact Wed, 12 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT 55:45 6a7c18007cf3c588866dbea1 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/why-good-programs-fail-at-scale-tom-steele-cei-on-research-d 6a7c18007cf3c588866dbea1 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 why-good-programs-fail-at-scale-tom-steele-cei-on-research-d full 1 7 In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Tom Steele, Principal Advisor at the Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI), to unpack the science of turning good intentions into lasting social impact.


Learn more about CEI here: https://www.ceiglobal.org/


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

01:57 What does CEI do and its focus areas

04:11 Tom's journey into social impact and research background

06:00 Understanding impact: from theory to real-world application

09:04 Engagement timing: from early intervention to scaling

11:09 Challenges of scaling pilot programs to national level

12:56 The voltage drop concept in program scaling

15:49 The role of storytelling and emotion in evidence-based work

18:09 Building narratives to shift mindsets and policy

22:10 Counterintuitive findings and unintended consequences

25:04 Sustaining impact beyond awareness days

30:02 Contextual factors in choosing implementation strategies

36:07 The importance of evidence mindset for small and large organizations

37:02 The role and limitations of randomized control trials

44:01 Applying evidence in complex social settings

50:08 Advice for organizations developing an evidence-based approach

54:09 The future of implementation science in philanthropy and social impact


#philanthropy #socialchange #charitypodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Tom Steele, Principal Advisor at the Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI), to unpack the science of turning good intentions into lasting social impact.


Learn more about CEI here: https://www.ceiglobal.org/


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

01:57 What does CEI do and its focus areas

04:11 Tom's journey into social impact and research background

06:00 Understanding impact: from theory to real-world application

09:04 Engagement timing: from early intervention to scaling

11:09 Challenges of scaling pilot programs to national level

12:56 The voltage drop concept in program scaling

15:49 The role of storytelling and emotion in evidence-based work

18:09 Building narratives to shift mindsets and policy

22:10 Counterintuitive findings and unintended consequences

25:04 Sustaining impact beyond awareness days

30:02 Contextual factors in choosing implementation strategies

36:07 The importance of evidence mindset for small and large organizations

37:02 The role and limitations of randomized control trials

44:01 Applying evidence in complex social settings

50:08 Advice for organizations developing an evidence-based approach

54:09 The future of implementation science in philanthropy and social impact


#philanthropy #socialchange #charitypodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How This Charity Model Creates Change That Lasts || The Giving Habit – Reflections How This Charity Model Creates Change That Lasts || The Giving Habit – Reflections Fri, 07 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT 6:33 6a75ee95b5c73bab7c243e4f false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/how-this-charity-model-creates-change-that-lasts-the-giving 6a75ee95b5c73bab7c243e4f 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 how-this-charity-model-creates-change-that-lasts-the-giving bonus Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with CEO of The Majurity Trust Martin Tan, to discuss how their method of collaborative social impact brings charities together, and challenges the standard view of what it means to thrive.


In this special follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys breaks down what he found most impactful from his conversation with Martin, and what both old and new members of the space can learn from The Majurity Trust's work.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#singapore #philanthropy #charity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with CEO of The Majurity Trust Martin Tan, to discuss how their method of collaborative social impact brings charities together, and challenges the standard view of what it means to thrive.


In this special follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys breaks down what he found most impactful from his conversation with Martin, and what both old and new members of the space can learn from The Majurity Trust's work.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#singapore #philanthropy #charity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How Bringing Change-Makers Together Enables Communities To Thrive || w/ Martin Tan How Bringing Change-Makers Together Enables Communities To Thrive || w/ Martin Tan Wed, 05 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT 42:38 6a72a241f75dde11d121db90 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/how-bringing-change-makers-together-enables-communities-to-t 6a72a241f75dde11d121db90 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 how-bringing-change-makers-together-enables-communities-to-t full 1 6 In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen sits down with Martin Tan, CEO of The Majority Trust in Singapore, to unpack how the power of the collective is reshaping social impact.


Whether you're a donor, a nonprofit leader, or simply curious about social impact, this is an honest conversation about what it takes to build a thriving charitable ecosystem.


CHAPTERS:

0:00 – Intro

4:18 – What "Maju" means and the story behind the name

5:56 – Thriving vs. succeeding: redefining social impact

11:15 – Doing philanthropy differently: an ecosystem approach

14:38 – The Majority Trust's 12 philanthropic funds

17:14 – Inside Foundry: the home of collective impact in Singapore

21:00 – Why local context and local voices matter

27:08 – Trust, relationships and honest conversations in giving

28:25 – Innovation in philanthropy: recyclable grants, match trading & impact-first funds

31:31 – The Maybank & Temasek partnerships

34:24 – "The most innovative idea is an old one applied to a new problem"

40:01 – Gratitude, humility and the road ahead


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#singapore #philanthropy #charity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen sits down with Martin Tan, CEO of The Majority Trust in Singapore, to unpack how the power of the collective is reshaping social impact.


Whether you're a donor, a nonprofit leader, or simply curious about social impact, this is an honest conversation about what it takes to build a thriving charitable ecosystem.


CHAPTERS:

0:00 – Intro

4:18 – What "Maju" means and the story behind the name

5:56 – Thriving vs. succeeding: redefining social impact

11:15 – Doing philanthropy differently: an ecosystem approach

14:38 – The Majority Trust's 12 philanthropic funds

17:14 – Inside Foundry: the home of collective impact in Singapore

21:00 – Why local context and local voices matter

27:08 – Trust, relationships and honest conversations in giving

28:25 – Innovation in philanthropy: recyclable grants, match trading & impact-first funds

31:31 – The Maybank & Temasek partnerships

34:24 – "The most innovative idea is an old one applied to a new problem"

40:01 – Gratitude, humility and the road ahead


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


#singapore #philanthropy #charity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How Funding Models Accidentally Hurt Non Profits || The Giving Habit - Reflections How Funding Models Accidentally Hurt Non Profits || The Giving Habit - Reflections Fri, 31 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 14:48 6a6c48c587f5f77b02841e83 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/how-funding-models-accidentally-hurt-non-profits-the-giving 6a6c48c587f5f77b02841e83 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 how-funding-models-accidentally-hurt-non-profits-the-giving bonus Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with TalentTrust CEO Lisa Gainer to understand how skills-based volunteering can create better social change, and how their programs can teach corporates to approach volunteering the right way.


In this follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys sits down with Colleen Sang to discuss their biggest takeaways from his conversation with Lisa and how aspiring change-makers can learn from TalentTrust's mission.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with TalentTrust CEO Lisa Gainer to understand how skills-based volunteering can create better social change, and how their programs can teach corporates to approach volunteering the right way.


In this follow-up REFLECTIONS episode, host Stephen Keys sits down with Colleen Sang to discuss their biggest takeaways from his conversation with Lisa and how aspiring change-makers can learn from TalentTrust's mission.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Why The Best Volunteers Have To Unlearn Their Corporate Habits || w/ Lisa Gainer of TalentTrust Why The Best Volunteers Have To Unlearn Their Corporate Habits || w/ Lisa Gainer of TalentTrust Wed, 29 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 32:04 6a697dc00ee147a124d1fb3b false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/why-the-best-volunteers-have-to-unlearn-their-corporate-habi 6a697dc00ee147a124d1fb3b 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 why-the-best-volunteers-have-to-unlearn-their-corporate-habi full 1 5 In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Lisa Gainer, CEO of TalentTrust. Lisa reveals how structured, skills-based volunteering is transforming both charities and the corporate professionals who give their time.


Learn more about TalentTrust here: https://talenttrust.org.sg/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 — Intro

03:00 — What drives professionals toward social impact

07:00 — How Talent Trust works

12:00 — Real case study: transforming a youth organisation

18:00 — The "unlearning" challenge for corporate volunteers

24:00 — The broken funding model hurting non-profits

30:00 — Who volunteers — and who will next

36:00 — The future of CSR and skills-based giving

42:00 — IPC status explained

46:00 — Talent Trust's vision: TT Connect


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


bumper-verify-1da167a4

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Lisa Gainer, CEO of TalentTrust. Lisa reveals how structured, skills-based volunteering is transforming both charities and the corporate professionals who give their time.


Learn more about TalentTrust here: https://talenttrust.org.sg/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 — Intro

03:00 — What drives professionals toward social impact

07:00 — How Talent Trust works

12:00 — Real case study: transforming a youth organisation

18:00 — The "unlearning" challenge for corporate volunteers

24:00 — The broken funding model hurting non-profits

30:00 — Who volunteers — and who will next

36:00 — The future of CSR and skills-based giving

42:00 — IPC status explained

46:00 — Talent Trust's vision: TT Connect


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


bumper-verify-1da167a4

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Teaching Kids Connection In The Age of Loneliness || The Giving Habit – Reflections Teaching Kids Connection In The Age of Loneliness || The Giving Habit – Reflections Fri, 24 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 4:07 6a61a8b27d20badb28e3b490 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/teaching-kids-connection-in-the-age-of-loneliness-the-giving 6a61a8b27d20badb28e3b490 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 teaching-kids-connection-in-the-age-of-loneliness-the-giving bonus Earlier this week, we sat down with Kids Giving Back co-founder and CEO Carole Schlessinger, to hear how her organisation's programs are helping children learn generosity through hands-on workshops.


Carole explained how these children are learning the value of connection and kindness by creating real change, and emphasised how critical this was in a time where loneliness is at an all time high.


In this follow-up REFLECTIONS episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys looks back at the crucial work being done by Kids Giving Back, and presents his biggest takeaways for those seeking to join the world of philanthropy.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


bumper-verify-309246cc

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week, we sat down with Kids Giving Back co-founder and CEO Carole Schlessinger, to hear how her organisation's programs are helping children learn generosity through hands-on workshops.


Carole explained how these children are learning the value of connection and kindness by creating real change, and emphasised how critical this was in a time where loneliness is at an all time high.


In this follow-up REFLECTIONS episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys looks back at the crucial work being done by Kids Giving Back, and presents his biggest takeaways for those seeking to join the world of philanthropy.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh


bumper-verify-309246cc

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How Do We Foster Generosity In The Next Generation? || on Kids Giving Back w/ Carole Schlessinger How Do We Foster Generosity In The Next Generation? || on Kids Giving Back w/ Carole Schlessinger Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 44:54 6a602670fa136e7931e9bf9d false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/how-do-we-foster-generosity-in-the-next-generation-on-kids-g 6a602670fa136e7931e9bf9d 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 how-do-we-foster-generosity-in-the-next-generation-on-kids-g full 1 4 What happens when children learn that giving back is not just about helping others—but also about building empathy, resilience, and connection?

In this episode of The Giving Habit, Carol Schlessinger, co-founder of Kids Giving Back, explains how volunteering can create a “triple impact” for children, the people they support, and the wider community.


Carol shares how Kids Giving Back began after she struggled to find meaningful volunteering opportunities for her own young children, and how the organisation has grown from families cooking and delivering meals into a broad range of programs for schools, families, teenagers, and corporate groups.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

01:15 The spark: personal stories and early influences

05:32 The importance of hands-on delivery and personal interaction

08:12 The triple impact: kids, recipients, and community

11:30 The mental health benefits of kindness and connection

17:14 Programs for youth: Grow, school incursions, and holiday programs

21:55 Funding sources and sustainability challenges

26:33 The importance of empathy, compassion, and response

30:42 The impact of food insecurity and community support

33:22 Creating intergenerational connections and reducing ageism

37:42 The value of shared experiences and family involvement

40:24 The science of social connection and happiness

43:00 Advocacy, mental health, and the future of youth programs


Carol’s message is simple: you do not need to wait for the perfect opportunity to make a difference. Start small, get involved, and help raise the next generation of generous, compassionate community members.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What happens when children learn that giving back is not just about helping others—but also about building empathy, resilience, and connection?

In this episode of The Giving Habit, Carol Schlessinger, co-founder of Kids Giving Back, explains how volunteering can create a “triple impact” for children, the people they support, and the wider community.


Carol shares how Kids Giving Back began after she struggled to find meaningful volunteering opportunities for her own young children, and how the organisation has grown from families cooking and delivering meals into a broad range of programs for schools, families, teenagers, and corporate groups.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

01:15 The spark: personal stories and early influences

05:32 The importance of hands-on delivery and personal interaction

08:12 The triple impact: kids, recipients, and community

11:30 The mental health benefits of kindness and connection

17:14 Programs for youth: Grow, school incursions, and holiday programs

21:55 Funding sources and sustainability challenges

26:33 The importance of empathy, compassion, and response

30:42 The impact of food insecurity and community support

33:22 Creating intergenerational connections and reducing ageism

37:42 The value of shared experiences and family involvement

40:24 The science of social connection and happiness

43:00 Advocacy, mental health, and the future of youth programs


Carol’s message is simple: you do not need to wait for the perfect opportunity to make a difference. Start small, get involved, and help raise the next generation of generous, compassionate community members.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> These Conversations Can Save Lives || The Giving Habit – Reflections These Conversations Can Save Lives || The Giving Habit – Reflections Fri, 17 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 6:20 6a59be8f62e50b14bd794cea false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/these-conversations-can-save-lives-the-giving-habit-reflecti 6a59be8f62e50b14bd794cea 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 these-conversations-can-save-lives-the-giving-habit-reflecti bonus In our most recent episode of The Giving Habit, we spoke with Jetha Devapura, founder of CCC Foundation and Let's Talk, to dive into the tiny sparks of purpose that can create significant change in communities of need.


Jetha shared his story of personal struggle, and how he alleviated his mental health challenges by channeling them into his charitable work.


In this follow-up reflections episode, host Stephen Keys breaks down the most valuable insights from their conversation, including the incredible positive change that has come from Let's Talk, as well as what aspiring change makers can learn from Jetha's story.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In our most recent episode of The Giving Habit, we spoke with Jetha Devapura, founder of CCC Foundation and Let's Talk, to dive into the tiny sparks of purpose that can create significant change in communities of need.


Jetha shared his story of personal struggle, and how he alleviated his mental health challenges by channeling them into his charitable work.


In this follow-up reflections episode, host Stephen Keys breaks down the most valuable insights from their conversation, including the incredible positive change that has come from Let's Talk, as well as what aspiring change makers can learn from Jetha's story.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[He Couldn't Walk Away || How Jetha Devapura Built Sri Lanka's Biggest Crisis Line]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 55:53 6a5726f592be37cb7b686809 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/he-couldnt-walk-away-how-jetha-devapura-built-sri-lankas-big 6a5726f592be37cb7b686809 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 he-couldnt-walk-away-how-jetha-devapura-built-sri-lankas-big full 1 3 What happens when your darkest moment becomes your life's purpose?


In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Jetha Devapura, founder of the CCC Foundation and the Let's Talk programme, to explore a remarkable story of overcoming struggles with mental health and using it as fuel for two of Sri Lanka's biggest humanitarian efforts.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro

01:39 — Founding CCC after seeing cancer patients without support

03:25 — From a first fundraiser to CCC House

06:16 — OCD, recovery, and the values behind CCC

11:49 — Turning pain into purpose through service

15:04 — Launching CCC Line, Sri Lanka’s crisis-support service

20:59 — The 1,333 km cycling ride for suicide-prevention awareness

23:14 — Men, suicide prevention, and changing how boys are raised

24:55 — Let’s Talk: building psychological safety before crisis

31:17 — Bringing the program into schools and workplaces

35:46 — Research evidence and measurable outcomes

40:03 — Leaving corporate work to focus on Let’s Talk

43:24 — Living with discomfort, uncertainty, and balance

47:18 — Scaling Let’s Talk across schools, workplaces, and communities

51:18 — Future plans: a self-support app and a school play

53:05 — “Slowly, slowly”: family values, gratitude, and closing reflections


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What happens when your darkest moment becomes your life's purpose?


In this episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys sits down with Jetha Devapura, founder of the CCC Foundation and the Let's Talk programme, to explore a remarkable story of overcoming struggles with mental health and using it as fuel for two of Sri Lanka's biggest humanitarian efforts.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro

01:39 — Founding CCC after seeing cancer patients without support

03:25 — From a first fundraiser to CCC House

06:16 — OCD, recovery, and the values behind CCC

11:49 — Turning pain into purpose through service

15:04 — Launching CCC Line, Sri Lanka’s crisis-support service

20:59 — The 1,333 km cycling ride for suicide-prevention awareness

23:14 — Men, suicide prevention, and changing how boys are raised

24:55 — Let’s Talk: building psychological safety before crisis

31:17 — Bringing the program into schools and workplaces

35:46 — Research evidence and measurable outcomes

40:03 — Leaving corporate work to focus on Let’s Talk

43:24 — Living with discomfort, uncertainty, and balance

47:18 — Scaling Let’s Talk across schools, workplaces, and communities

51:18 — Future plans: a self-support app and a school play

53:05 — “Slowly, slowly”: family values, gratitude, and closing reflections


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Is There A Better Way To Think About Crime? || The Giving Habit – Reflections ( w/ Diana The) Is There A Better Way To Think About Crime? || The Giving Habit – Reflections ( w/ Diana The) Sat, 11 Jul 2026 01:44:49 GMT 13:23 6a51a012a410914b587ed855 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/is-there-a-better-way-to-think-about-crime-the-giving-habit 6a51a012a410914b587ed855 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 is-there-a-better-way-to-think-about-crime-the-giving-habit bonus Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with Saleemah Ismail of New Life Stories to learn about the importance of breaking the cycle, including how we can help kids to avoid falling onto negative paths by addressing their trauma.


In this follow-up reflections episode, host Stephen Keys sits down with Diana The to discuss their biggest takeaways from the episode with Saleemah, including how they can look at crime from the perspective of healing the issue, rather than punishing the outcome.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week on The Giving Habit, we sat down with Saleemah Ismail of New Life Stories to learn about the importance of breaking the cycle, including how we can help kids to avoid falling onto negative paths by addressing their trauma.


In this follow-up reflections episode, host Stephen Keys sits down with Diana The to discuss their biggest takeaways from the episode with Saleemah, including how they can look at crime from the perspective of healing the issue, rather than punishing the outcome.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Breaking The Cycle For The Next Generation || Saleemah Ismail (New Life Stories) Breaking The Cycle For The Next Generation || Saleemah Ismail (New Life Stories) Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 46:38 6a4daa5e42872185cc0821e7 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/breaking-the-cycle-for-the-next-generation-saleemah-ismail-n 6a4daa5e42872185cc0821e7 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 breaking-the-cycle-for-the-next-generation-saleemah-ismail-n full 1 2 This week on The Giving Habit, we look at an organisation that is turning its attention towards the youths that many people overlook, and gives them the tools to disrupt the cycle of what came before them.


Saleemah Ismail, founder of New Life Stories, breaks down the critical importance of helping those with incarcerated parents to forge their own path, as well as the process of structuring an organisation to let it make meaningful change.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Breaking the Cycle of Trauma

06:09 The Healing Process: Interventions and Relationships

12:00 Measuring Success: Resilience and Family Dynamics

16:59 Intergenerational Trauma: Breaking the Cycle

21:11 Evidence of Success: Transforming Lives

23:40 The Journey from Hypothesis to Impact

30:10 Understanding Universal Themes of Love and Rejection

32:28 Leadership in Challenging Environments

36:25 Innovative Approaches to Family Engagement

42:13 Future Directions: Early Intervention Strategies


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This week on The Giving Habit, we look at an organisation that is turning its attention towards the youths that many people overlook, and gives them the tools to disrupt the cycle of what came before them.


Saleemah Ismail, founder of New Life Stories, breaks down the critical importance of helping those with incarcerated parents to forge their own path, as well as the process of structuring an organisation to let it make meaningful change.


CHAPTERS:

00:00 Breaking the Cycle of Trauma

06:09 The Healing Process: Interventions and Relationships

12:00 Measuring Success: Resilience and Family Dynamics

16:59 Intergenerational Trauma: Breaking the Cycle

21:11 Evidence of Success: Transforming Lives

23:40 The Journey from Hypothesis to Impact

30:10 Understanding Universal Themes of Love and Rejection

32:28 Leadership in Challenging Environments

36:25 Innovative Approaches to Family Engagement

42:13 Future Directions: Early Intervention Strategies


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Reality Of Philanthropy || The Giving Habit – Reflections (w/ Yenlin Tan) The Reality Of Philanthropy || The Giving Habit – Reflections (w/ Yenlin Tan) Fri, 03 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 8:15 6a474451ecd12391430e5ab6 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/the-reality-of-philanthropy-the-giving-habit-reflections-w-y 6a474451ecd12391430e5ab6 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 the-reality-of-philanthropy-the-giving-habit-reflections-w-y bonus Earlier this week, we launched the very first episode of The Giving Habit with our conversation with Smiling Gecko co-founder Hannes Schmid, opening up the world of philanthropy by discussing the realities of making significant change in modern society.


In this follow-up episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys dives even deeper into the topics we covered with Hannes, unpacking the most critical insights from this week's episode and why they matter.


Stephen also sits down with Yenlin Tan, another member of the Distinguished Senior Fellowship Programme at the University of Singapore.


New interviews every week. Subscribe so you don't miss out.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Earlier this week, we launched the very first episode of The Giving Habit with our conversation with Smiling Gecko co-founder Hannes Schmid, opening up the world of philanthropy by discussing the realities of making significant change in modern society.


In this follow-up episode of The Giving Habit, host Stephen Keys dives even deeper into the topics we covered with Hannes, unpacking the most critical insights from this week's episode and why they matter.


Stephen also sits down with Yenlin Tan, another member of the Distinguished Senior Fellowship Programme at the University of Singapore.


New interviews every week. Subscribe so you don't miss out.


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Sending Money Isn't Enough || Redefining Sustainable Aid with Hannes Schmid (Smiling Gecko)]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 21:00:00 GMT 1:10:18 6a4517e006fb5d326d96122f false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/sending-money-isnt-enough-redefiing-sustainable-aid-with-han 6a4517e006fb5d326d96122f 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 sending-money-isnt-enough-redefiing-sustainable-aid-with-han full 1 1 Hannes Schmid is the co-founder of Smiling Gecko, a sprawling 1,500-hectare social enterprise in Cambodia housing a school, farm, fish farming, carpentry workshops, and 34 small businesses. All built to create genuine, lasting change rather than dependency.


In this premiere episode, we trace the full origin story of Smiling Gecko, listen to Hannes’ case for why NGOs need to take a different approach, and dive into how sustainable this sort of program really is. This is a podcast about philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, and giving back, by and for people working that much harder to make a difference. 


Learn more about Smiling Gecko: https://www.smilinggecko.ch/en/


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust: https://www.majurity.sg/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Genesis of Smiling Gecko

05:50 Building a Holistic Community

12:00 Education as a Foundation for Change

18:01 The Role of Trust and Cultural Sensitivity

23:57 Balancing Philanthropy and Social Enterprise

29:59 Financial Sustainability and Quality Education

36:05 Philosophy of Architecture and Long-term Vision

36:21 Building Sustainable Structures in Challenging Environments

39:10 Design Philosophy: Integrating Tradition and Modernity

42:35 Cultural Heritage and Community Identity

45:53 The Role of Art in Society

48:26 The Importance of Shared Identity through Art

51:15 Questioning and Evolving Community Practices

54:03 Environmental Sustainability: A Complex Challenge

59:46 Future Aspirations and Community Growth


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Hannes Schmid is the co-founder of Smiling Gecko, a sprawling 1,500-hectare social enterprise in Cambodia housing a school, farm, fish farming, carpentry workshops, and 34 small businesses. All built to create genuine, lasting change rather than dependency.


In this premiere episode, we trace the full origin story of Smiling Gecko, listen to Hannes’ case for why NGOs need to take a different approach, and dive into how sustainable this sort of program really is. This is a podcast about philanthropy, social entrepreneurship, and giving back, by and for people working that much harder to make a difference. 


Learn more about Smiling Gecko: https://www.smilinggecko.ch/en/


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust: https://www.majurity.sg/


CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Genesis of Smiling Gecko

05:50 Building a Holistic Community

12:00 Education as a Foundation for Change

18:01 The Role of Trust and Cultural Sensitivity

23:57 Balancing Philanthropy and Social Enterprise

29:59 Financial Sustainability and Quality Education

36:05 Philosophy of Architecture and Long-term Vision

36:21 Building Sustainable Structures in Challenging Environments

39:10 Design Philosophy: Integrating Tradition and Modernity

42:35 Cultural Heritage and Community Identity

45:53 The Role of Art in Society

48:26 The Importance of Shared Identity through Art

51:15 Questioning and Evolving Community Practices

54:03 Environmental Sustainability: A Complex Challenge

59:46 Future Aspirations and Community Growth


The Giving Habit is brought to you by The Majurity Trust, building a thriving, sustainable Singapore for all. Learn more at https://www.majurity.sg/tgh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Giving Habit Podcast Introduction The Giving Habit Podcast Introduction Fri, 26 Jun 2026 02:30:56 GMT 1:48 6a3de46026d5a6687a6dbf47 false https://shows.acast.com/the-giving-habit/episodes/the-giving-habit-podcast-introduction 6a3de46026d5a6687a6dbf47 6a374b3cf1612f1c694a5c83 the-giving-habit-podcast-introduction trailer Do you feel the pull toward contribution but aren't quite sure where to start?


Have you ever wondered how your time, skills, networks, or resources could make a greater difference?


And in a world full of worthy causes, how do we better understand what is happening today, so we can contribute to a better tomorrow?


These are some of the questions we'll be exploring in The Giving Habit, a new 13-part podcast miniseries featuring conversations with social impact founders, funders, enablers, and change makers. Along the way, we will:


  • Highlight organisations and causes worthy of your attention and support
  • Explore practical pathways to contribute more meaningfully
  • Uncover what enables stronger collaboration and collective impact


The series was inspired by my experience in the inaugural Distinguished Senior Fellowship Program at NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE).


First episode drops on 2 July.


Brought to you by The Wisdom Vault.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Do you feel the pull toward contribution but aren't quite sure where to start?


Have you ever wondered how your time, skills, networks, or resources could make a greater difference?


And in a world full of worthy causes, how do we better understand what is happening today, so we can contribute to a better tomorrow?


These are some of the questions we'll be exploring in The Giving Habit, a new 13-part podcast miniseries featuring conversations with social impact founders, funders, enablers, and change makers. Along the way, we will:


  • Highlight organisations and causes worthy of your attention and support
  • Explore practical pathways to contribute more meaningfully
  • Uncover what enables stronger collaboration and collective impact


The series was inspired by my experience in the inaugural Distinguished Senior Fellowship Program at NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE).


First episode drops on 2 July.


Brought to you by The Wisdom Vault.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>