In this episode of the Lead With Heart Podcast, I sit down with Nick Cooney, the founder and Managing Partner at Lever VC, a trailblazing early-stage venture capital fund focused on food tech, ag tech, and sustainable food innovation that is changing the game.

Together, we explore the interplay between venture capital and philanthropy that, if done well, can reshape the future of food. We dive into the world of impact investing, sustainable food systems, and the power of action-driven philanthropy. You'll also learn how to overcome your internal barriers and start helping others today.

In this episode:

[01:55] How Nick started blending venture capitalism and philanthropy
[06:01] How to overcome the barriers to a more sustainable food system
[08:28] What nonprofits can do to advocate for a better food system
[12:14] What the ideal sustainable food system looks like
[13:58] Two innovations that will reshape how the world eats
[16:16] How investments and philanthropy can make food accessible for all
[19:11] Nick's latest book and the high cost of inaction
[21:25] Some internal barriers we face to helping others
[26:44] Three strategies to start building your charitable muscles today
[32:43] Choose how you use money for greater impact

RESOURCES

Discover Nick's books, including his latest, What We Don't Do.

Learn more about the Lever Foundation.

Catch up with my talk with Alix Lebec, who also blends philanthropy and financing, in

Send Haley a suggestion or request via text HERE!

My book, Sow, Grow, Lead is live on Amazon! It shares my journey of starting a nonprofit in Malawi and offers practical strategies for nonprofit leaders to create real impact.

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CONNECT WITH HALEY
Haley is a CFRE, Stress Management Coach, and EmC trainer. Founder of The Savvy Fundraiser, she brings experience in human services, homelessness, and youth nonprofits. She specializes in EmC, leadership, board development, and fundraising, empowering nonprofit leaders to build thriving organizations.
Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser
LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFRE
Website: thesavvyfundraiser.com

Produced by Ideablossoms