What does it mean to show up authentically in philanthropic spaces that assure you that you’re not the right fit and that you just don’t get it? In this episode, I sit down with C’Ardiss Gardner Gleser, a philanthropic leader whose life journey—from teen mom to Yale graduate, from forklift operator to family philanthropy consultant and entrepreneur—embodies the relentlessness and brilliance of Black and African American leaders in philanthropy navigating systems that are often more complicated than they need to be.

Gardner Gleser shares how her lived experience—not just her credentials—has shaped her approach to philanthropy. She speaks candidly about the obstacles she’s faced, the inspiration she draws from her ancestors’ strength, and the importance of showing up fully and unapologetically in spaces that not-so-quietly demand conformity. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of truth-telling, listening to community, and audacious love.

Together, we explore how Black philanthropy is not new—it’s rooted in mutual aid, family, and the everyday acts of care that have sustained our communities for generations. Gardner Gleser reminds us that philanthropy, at its core, is about love in action. And that love must be embodied—not just written into checks or mission statements.

This conversation is a call to action for funders, practitioners, and community members alike to reimagine philanthropy as a space of healing, truth, and radical care.

• C’Ardiss’s journey from teen motherhood, Yale, and entrepreneurship within philanthropy
• The role of lived experience in shaping philanthropic leadership
• Why philanthropy must move beyond transactions to transformation
• The importance of relational repair and vulnerability in philanthropic work
• A redefinition of philanthropy rooted in love and action, not paperwork

• How to leverage your lived experience as a leadership asset
• Strategies for navigating philanthropic spaces with authenticity
• Tips for staying grounded in your values while working in philanthropy
• How to advocate for community-centered funding practices
• Ways to foster relational repair and build trust across divided communities
• How to challenge gatekeeping in philanthropy with courage and clarity
• The importance of storytelling in shifting power and perception

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Episode Credits

Produced by Simuel + Murray and Emerald City Productions

Losing a parent reshapes the way we see the world, and for me, the passing of my father, Solomon Neal Jackson III, profoundly influenced my perception of giving. His legacy of kindness and generosity, often expressed through his open door and legendary gumbo, taught me that philanthropy is far more than institutional frameworks. It’s about community and love.

My journey through Black philanthropy has been illuminated by these personal stories and conversations with leaders like Tony Simmons, who exemplify the timeless tradition of Black people supporting one another.

The essence of Black philanthropy is deeply rooted in our history and culture, harkening back to our resilience from the era of slavery to the present day. As a filmmaker with nearly 15 years of experience in the sector of philanthropy, I've navigated spaces where Black voices are rare, determined to amplify the stories and contributions of Black leaders in philanthropy. Remembering my father and the remarkable women in my family, Mildred Simuel and Louise Murray Jackson, I celebrate the strength that has shaped my journey and highlight the importance of mutual support within our community.

Creating a future filled with hope requires us to engage in honest conversations and embrace the dynamic nature of Black philanthropy. We are, indeed, building an airplane while it’s in the air, crafting spaces where respect and courage thrive. Through Black Philanthropy: Our Stories, our goal is to spark inspiration and counter the fears of the future, positioning philanthropy as a beacon that guides us toward positive change.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, empowered by the strength of our heritage and a vision for a better tomorrow.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Michelle’s journey into Black philanthropy, influenced by the legacy of her father, Solomon Neal Jackson III
• The essence of Black philanthropy, rooted in cultural and historical mutual support
• Honoring the remarkable women in Michelle’s family and their influence on her philanthropic path
• The rarity of Black voices in the philanthropic sector and the importance of amplifying them
• The evolving nature of Black philanthropy and the importance of fostering hope and courage
• The role personal loss plays in understanding and practicing philanthropy
• Creating a space for Black leaders to share their stories and inspire change

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

Produced by Simuel + Murray and Emerald City Productions

"Black Philanthropy: Our Stories" explores the untold stories of professionals and philanthropists dedicated to black philanthropy.

Join our host and award-winning storyteller, Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv, as she interviews black leaders in philanthropy across the U.S.

Each episode, features an interview with a trailblazer, like the foundation leader who has allocated over $90 million in grants to nonprofits, or the entrepreneur who teaches middle-class, black families how to start their own family foundations.

Whether you're a philanthropist, or whether you’re a part of a foundation, nonprofit, or fundraising team, we dare you to tune in.

Our stories will inspire you.
Our stories will challenge you.
Our stories will remind you that you are not alone.