This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a thoughtful and practical conversation between Craig Zelizer and Brad Smith, founder of Rootstock Philanthropy and the Philanthropy Network.
Brad’s entry into fundraising was unplanned—driven by financial necessity—but evolved into a decades-long career advising institutions like MIT, the Portland Museum of Art, Suffolk University, and the Partnership on AI. In this episode, Brad shares hard-earned lessons on how to build a meaningful and sustainable career in philanthropy, even amid burnout, changing donor landscapes, and rising ethical questions.
What the episode covers:
• How to enter the fundraising world without prior experience
• Why early-career professionals should prioritize mentorship and learning environments
• Behind-the-scenes lessons from major campaigns at institutions like MIT
• How to assess nonprofit culture and avoid burnout
• Building authentic donor relationships grounded in ethics and gratitude
• Clarifying the roles of fundraising, development, and advancement
• The limits of philanthropy without systemic public policy change
• How AI and tech are shaping (and challenging) the future of fundraising
Resources and links mentioned in the episode:
• Rootstock Philanthropy – Brad’s consultancy focused on campaign strategy, coaching, and organizational growth
https://www.rootstockphilanthropy.org
• The Philanthropy Network (LinkedIn Group) – A free global community of over 120,000 nonprofit and fundraising professionals
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13605390/
• The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist – A foundational book on aligning money with purpose and humanity
https://soulofmoney.org/books/
• Wealth in Families by Charles Collier – A guide to values-based family giving and stewardship
https://www.charlescollier.info/book
• Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas – A critique of how elite philanthropy often perpetuates inequality
https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781101972670/winnerstakeall
• Trust-Based Philanthropy Project – A resource hub for funders and nonprofits advancing equity and transparency
https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/
• AFP Global (Association of Fundraising Professionals) – The professional home for fundraisers, offering certifications, trainings, and ethical standards
https://afpglobal.org/
• Philanthropy.Network – Brad’s digital platform offering curated content and updates for fundraising leaders
https://philanthropy.network
• Philanthropy Network Academy – Online learning and cohort-based development for fundraisers and nonprofit professionals
https://www.philanthropy.network/academy
About Brad Smith
Brad is the founder of Rootstock Philanthropy, a global fundraising and strategy consultancy working with mission-driven organizations. He also leads the Philanthropy Network, a 120,000+ member learning community. His clients include MIT, World Horse Welfare, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Partnership on AI.
Whether you're new to fundraising, considering a career shift, or leading within a nonprofit—this episode delivers candid insights and practical tools for building a career with purpose.
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