In this episode of The Relational Podcast, host Georgie Nightingall, PhD candidate and founder at Trigger Conversations engages in a profound conversation with Sumitra Pasupathy, of Karuna Advisory Impact (KAI) and partner at Philanthropy Dialogues about the transformative power of relationships in addressing global crises.

Sumitra shares her rich family heritage, her journey from being an engineer to a social innovator, and her work with resource and wealth holders. She highlights the importance of trust, deep listening, and relational frameworks in effecting meaningful social change. The discussion delves into the concept of social innovation versus product innovation, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her work, and practical steps for embracing relational leadership.

• 00:59 Meet Sumitra: A Journey of Heritage and Social Impact
• 02:27 The Influence of Family and Community
• 05:36 From Engineering to Social Innovation
• 08:05 A Pivotal Moment During COVID-19
• 11:35 The Power of Relational Trust
• 18:48 Facing the Poly Crisis with Trust and Collaboration
• 25:28 Practical Steps for Embracing Relational Leadership
• 27:53 Conclusion: The Heart of Transformation

A big shout-out to the Wasan community for bringing us together – especially Meg Busse, Rachel Sinha, Christine Lai and Melanie Kahl, facilitators of the “Making the Case for Relationality” huddle. We appreciate your role in fostering this conversation.Thank you for tuning in!

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Conceived and co-created during a Wasan Network small group in partnership with Huddlecraft. Wasan is a global network of social impact and philanthropy practitioners who believe that relationships sit at the center of social change. Learn more: https://www.wasan-network.org/

Production and dissemination by Efecto Colibrí: Efecto Colibrí blends storytelling, social innovation, and the power of relationships to produce and distribute original and partner podcasts that bridge communities and sectors, shift mindsets, and spark action toward a more just, diverse, and regenerative future. Learn more https://efectocolibri.com/en/

Artwork by Anjali Chandrashekar. https://anjalic.com/About