E145: How Much of the Great Wealth Transfer Could go to Climate?
Summary
Host Molly Wood interviews Abby Axelrod Wunderman of Fiduciary Trust International about the evolving landscape of climate philanthropy. They discuss how the great wealth transfer and broader definitions of climate impact are driving new funding strategies. The conversation covers the role of philanthropy as catalytic capital, the mechanics of donor-advised funds, and the shift toward flexible, unrestricted grants to support global resilience and health initiatives.
Topics discussed
Intro and overview of shifting philanthropic trends
Guest intro: Abby Axelrod Wunderman's background
Current state and growth of climate giving
Advising clients on values and climate strategies
Evolution of climate philanthropy over 10 years
Philanthropy as catalytic capital for risk
Key focus areas: Energy, health, and resilience
Rising generations and intergenerational giving
Donor Advised Funds vs. Private Foundations
Privacy, anonymity, and operational differences
Restricted vs. unrestricted grants and modern approaches
Great wealth transfer and climate as a universal lens
Outro and sponsor messages
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