Shows / The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World

The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World
Whether you’re ladling soup at a local shelter or attending a UN Peace Conference, those who devote their lives to the service of others are often exhausted and in need of a little break. Welcome to the PlayFull Podcast, bringing fun to the serious work of changing the world. I’m Kristine Michie, myself 5 decades into trying to make the world a better place. Join PlayFull as we meet movement builders from around the world and learn about the problems they’re solving, the systems they’re…
Episodes
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldREADI is READY: Promoting & Defending Race Explicit Grantmaking
In this episode, Kristine Michie welcomes the Racial Equity Advancement and Defense Initiative (READI) Group—represented by Jazmin Chavez, E. Bomani Johnson…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldEmily Rasmussen and Shige Sakurai: Ideas into Action through Giving Circles
On this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie is joined by Shige Sakurai and Emily Rasmussen, for a rich conversation on community, courage, and…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldJulia Roig & Merle McGee: Reimagining Civic Life
In this inspiring Brave Voices episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie reunites with civic leaders Julia Roig and Merle McGee for a deep, moving…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldEric K. Ward: Hey Philanthropy, The Rainy Day Is Here!
In this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie welcomes back longtime friend and PlayFull alum Eric K. Ward for another powerful conversation in…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldLisha Bell, Latanya Mapp, Jeanine Abrams McLean – PowerFULL and PlayFULL Women Leading with Love
Host Kristine Michie gathers three powerhouse alumnae—Lisha Bell, Latanya Mapp, and Jeanine Abrams McLean—for a joy-filled, soul-nourishing reunion on The…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldRusty Stahl: Defending Civil Society in a Time of Political Threats
In this continuing installment of the Brave Voices, Kristine Michie welcomes Rusty Stahl of Fund the People for a conversation that meets the moment. With the…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldSarabeth Berman: Saving Democracy with Nonprofit News
On this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie welcomes Sarabeth Berman, CEO of the American Journalism Project, for an energizing and timely…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldVanessa Wakeman: Balancing Strategic Silence and Bold Language in Challenging Times
On this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie welcomes Vanessa Wakeman, founder of The Wakeman Agency, for a rich and candid conversation…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldRobert Raben: Prayer, Love & Laughter Inform Good Political Strategy
Kristine Michie welcomes longtime policy strategist and justice advocate Robert Raben in this Brave Voices episode of The PlayFull Podcast. Together, they…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldCelebrating Pride with Defiant Joy: Stonewall, Marriage Equality, and the Work Ahead
In this heartfelt group episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie brings together three powerful changemakers to reflect on the anniversaries of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldGlen Galaich: How Foundations Endow the Problem–Not the Solution
In this rich and timely episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie reconnects with Glen Galaich of the Stupski Foundation for a bold and deeply…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldScot Nakagawa: Humor, Humanity, and the Fight for the 22nd Century
On this episode, Kristine Michie sits down with activist, strategist, and co-founder of the 22nd Century Initiative, Scot Nakagawa, joining our chorus of brave…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldBrave and Bad Ass Women: Leading and Loving in this Moment
In this powerful continuation of The PlayFull Podcast’s Brave Voices series, host Kristine Michie brings together a chorus of extraordinary…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldEdgar Villanueva: How Joyful Resistance Will Move $1 Trillion in Reparative Finance
In this moving kickoff to The PlayFull Podcast’s new “Brave Voices” series, host Kristine Michie is joined by Edgar Villanueva—author, activist, and founder of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Rewind] Nancy Levine Stearns: Riding and Reporting on the Tsunami of Support for DEI
We had to rewind this episode from just a few months back because Nancy’s reporting on DEI has become the Bible for those following this issue. In just the…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Rewind] Future Proofing the World through Play
Summary In this audience-favorite rewind episode, we explore the power of play, joy, and inclusive storytelling for driving transformative social change with…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Rewind] Play is Intrinsic & Essential | Dr. Stuart Brown, National Institute for Play
While many call today’s guest the father of play, Dr. Stuart Brown credits Aristotle and even our hunt-and-gather ancestors with first recognizing play as a…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldTrista Harris: If You Want Solutions, Stop Loving the Problem
In this milestone 100th episode of The PlayFull Podcast, Kristine Michie closes the Just Transition series in conversation with philanthropic futurist Trista…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldDimple Abichandani: Interviewing Andrew (Carnegie) to Uncover What’s Wrong with Philanthropy – and how to fix it
On this episode of The PlayFull Podcast, host Kristine Michie welcomes Dimple Abichandani, a seasoned advocate and new author (her book, A New Era of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldAaron Dorfman and Senowa Mize-Fox: Protecting Civil Society by Funding Front-line Orgs
In this episode, Kristine Michie explores philanthropy's critical challenges with Aaron Dorfman and Senowa Mize-Fox from the National Committee for Responsive…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldChris Lawrence: Creating Financial Justice in a Mobile World
In this episode, Kristine Michie talks with Chris Lawrence, Chief Program Officer at the Interledger Foundation, about reimagining financial access in a…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldErin Axelrod: Equalizing Access to the Tools and Levers that Grow the Economy
In this episode, Kristine Michie sits down with Erin Axelrod from LIFT Economy to explore the mechanisms and practices that support the growth of a…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldLaurin Leonard: Why Second Chance is our Best Chance
In this compelling episode, Kristine Michie sits down with Laurin Leonard, CEO and co-founder of R3 Score, to explore how businesses can make smarter, fairer…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldBill Burke: Former Weather Channel CEO Chooses to See Blue Skies
On this episode, Kristine Michie welcomes media veteran and optimism advocate Bill Burke for a conversation that will shift how you see the world. From leading…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldDelivering Money and Meaning for Marginalized Founders with Kat Gabrielle
In this episode, Kristine Michie sits down with entrepreneur, activist, and change-maker Kat Gabrielle, a powerhouse in funding and supporting marginalized…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldBuilding Tech for the Just Transition – An AI Platform for the Social Sector
Join Kristine Michie in this PlayFull exploration of how AI tools can be trained to be allies for the progressive movement. With guests Aram Fischer from…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldUshering Philanthropy into the Just Transition: Play, Power, and a 100-Year Vision with Justice Funders Network
Host Kristine Michie interviews leaders Dino Foxx, Lora Smith, and Fernando Abarca about reimagining philanthropy to better serve communities. They discuss…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldBlair Glencorse: Turning Ethical Leaders into Celebrities in a Global Fight for Good Governance
Join host Kristine Michie as she welcomes Blair Glencorse, co-founder of Accountability Lab, to discuss how play, storytelling, and unexpected partnerships can…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldNancy Levine Stearns: Debunking DEI Backlash: What Companies Are Really Doing
Nonprofit and philanthropic leaders dedicate themselves to service, but navigating corporate responsibility, social justice, and DEI backlash can feel…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldLOVE WINS: PlayFull Alumni Leading with Joy
In this special Valentine’s Day gathering, host Kristine Michie welcomes back former guests to continue the conversation on what fuels their work. These…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldJulia Roig: Play, Power, and Paradigm Shifts: The Art of Weaving a Just Future
In this episode, Kristine sits down with Julia Roig of The Horizons Project to explore how “weaving” is the secret sauce to effective partnering, organizing…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldPlayFull Alumni Network – Ongoing Series: The Day After the Day After
Kristine Michie brings together a dynamic group of changemakers to explore the challenges and opportunities ahead for those working to protect democracy…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Leadership Rewind] Dale Anglin: Now More than Ever – Why Local News Needs Philanthropic Support
Listen in as Kristine and Dale discuss: The 50K local journalists that have lost their jobs in the last 10 years and why this is a foundational problem for…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Leadership Rewind] Joseph Scantlebury: The Unbelievable ROI of a More Abundant World View
Listen in as Kristine and Joseph discuss: What avocado toast has to do with narrative change Who’s worthy of investment and what we lose when we don’t realize…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Leadership Rewind] Jean Oelwang: Proclaiming Something Unacceptable is a Great Place to Start
In this episode you’ll meet Jean Oelwang, CEO of Virgin Unite, who’s had the privilege to work (and play!) with global luminaries like Jimmy Carter, Nelson…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Leadership Rewind] Latanya Mapp: Now more than ever, the Play & Pivots that Make Philanthropy Better
In this episode, global philanthropic star Latanya Mapp shares how decades of play and purpose infuse her leadership style and help her shine bright as CEO of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Leadership Rewind] David Risher: Lyft’s CEO is Driving Change – and Always Has
In this episode: We first met Lyft CEO David Risher one year ago when he joined us for a free-wheeling discussion about growing and sustaining a culture of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldWhat Mom and Dad Taught Me about Activism, Empathy, and Play: Lessons from two lives lived in Service
Join Kristine Michie for this year-end episode, a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with her parents, Jim and Kathleen Stiven. As they reflect on decades of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldA Year of Lessons from Leaders, Activists, and Ice Cream Makers
Join Kristine Michie and PlayFull’s producer Doug Sandler as they celebrate an incredible year of The PlayFull Podcast. Through reflections on standout…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldMore PlayFull Than Ever, Ep.2: Recess for Grownups: Spark Play for the Adults in Your Life (and Your Organization) & Change Everything
Join Kristine Michie as she dives into the world of play with Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks. Together, they explore how play can transform schools…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldMore PlayFull Than Ever, Ep.1: Rest, Resilience, and Joy in Tough Times
Kristine Michie and a group of changemakers discuss resilience and joy post-2024 election. They share anecdotes, reflections, and strategies on rest, ancestral…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldAndrea Longton: When Lattes Become Legacy: Empowering Everyday Investors to Drive Social Justice
In this episode, Kristine Michie dives deep with Andrea Longton—author of Social Justice Investor, professional investor and activist—on how individuals can…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldImara Jones: Skepticism as a Superpower
In this episode, Kristine Michie joins Imara Jones, CEO and founder of TransLash Media, in exploring how storytelling shapes cultural perspectives and advances…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldAda Williams Prince: Imaging a More Inclusive Future Together
On today's podcast, we explore the power of play, joy, and inclusive storytelling for driving transformative social change with Ada Williams Prince. Known…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldAna Marie Argilagos: Building Common Ground and Fueling Change Across America
This week’s episode was recorded six days before the 2024 Presidential election, and dropped two days after. As we chatted, Ana Marie and I tried to comfort…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldRonda Carnegie: We’re on the Cusp of Solving Climate Change
Listen in as Kristine and Ronda discuss: How to get people off the sidelines on climate–reaching those who are concerned but not activated Why women hold the…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldJoseph Scantlebury: The Unbelievable ROI of a More Abundant World View
Listen in as Kristine and Joseph discuss: How avocado toast proves the lasting and transformative effect of narrative change Who’s worthy of investment and…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldEric Ward: What is Racism Matters More than Who is Racist
Listen in as Kristine and Eric discuss: How to change the conversation from who is racist, to what is racism Their shared but completely different experience…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldTrabian Shorters: Narrative Change is Culture Change
Listen in as Kristine and Trabian discuss: How cognitive science provides tools and evidence for moving from deficit-framing to asset-framing Why it’s our…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldCharisse Conanan Johnson: Shared Prosperity and A Playful Approach to Addressing Racism
Listen in as Kristine and Charisse discuss: Defining racism, why anti-racism is a core value at Next Street, and why it should be a core value for all of us…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[V&D Rewind] Ali Noorani: Confronting America’s Identity Crisis
Listen in as Kristine and Ali discuss: Creating a compelling narrative around why our institutions should serve everyone Mitigating the corrosive effects of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[V&D Rewind] Joe Goldman: Democracy Needs Philanthropy and Vice Versa
Since recording this episode with Joe in the Spring a lot has happened. The always-salient issues of how to protect and grow democracy have added urgency in…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[V&D Rewind] Palika Makam: How Beloved Brands Pave the Way for Bold Action
UPDATE since we recorded!!! Check out Ben & Jerry’s new democracy-themed flavor – Churn Out the Vote – in stores and scoop shops now! Listen in as Kristine and…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[V&D Rewind] Jeanine Abrams McLean: Bringing Joy to Bring About Change
Listen in as Kristine and Jeanine discuss: Growing up in a family (with sister, Stacey!) that knew the power of play Being relentless and relentlessly-positive…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldTaharka Brothers…Impact, Ice Cream & Employee-Ownership
For the last 12 months, Taharka Brothers Ice Cream, based in Baltimore, has sent its award-winning ice cream to PlayFull guests all over the US. This episode…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldLaTosha Brown: Joy is the New… Everything
Listen in as Kristine and LaTosha discuss: The evolution of the 2024 US Election from “Imagine the consequences” to “Imagine the possibilities.” Being part of…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldYordanos Eyoel: Democracy is a Verb – Launching into Vigorous Action
Like many changemakers who join us on The PlayFull Podcast, Yordanos Eyoel has an impact origin story that began before her 10th birthday. Listen in as she…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldDale Anglin: Why Local News is Vital – and Needs Philanthropic Support
Listen in as Kristine and Dale discuss: The 50K local journalists that have lost their jobs in the last 10 years and why this is a foundational problem for…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldPalika Makam: How a Beloved Product Can Pave the Way for Riskier Activism
Listen in as Kristine and Palika discuss: What closing a prison, cannabis equity, and the fighting the death penalty have to do with ice cream What it means to…
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the WorldMerle McGee: The Promise, Practice, and Purpose of Everyday Democracy
Listen in as Kristine and Merle discuss: How Americans turned away from a commitment to public good when the “public” began to include people outside the white…