What could a murder mystery teach us about fundraising and the ways they are corrupted?

In this episode, I dug into The Appeal with Radha and Annu, a book that had us hooked while making us question how power, privilege, and manipulation show up in the social sector. We talk about why trust matters in fundraising, why transparency is non-negotiable, and how the wrong incentives can spiral into real harm. This book wasn’t just a whodunnit; it was a mirror for how communities can rally together or fall apart.

Join me as we unpack a story that’s more real than you might think.

IN THIS EPISODE

(00:00) What happens when a murder mystery feels too real?

(02:25) Why does this book make fundraisers sweat? 04:30 | Fundraising gone dark—how far is too far?

(08:45) Why do we still get trust so wrong in giving?

(14:00) The burnout nobody talks about in fundraising

(17:25) Can a community actually change the world?

(21:30) Collaboration or competition—what really wins?

(25:35) Why do outspoken women get pushed out, not up?

Anu Prasad

Anu Prasad is the Founder & CEO of India Leaders for Social Sector (ILSS). ILSS is the leading institution for leadership and management in the social impact sector. We are on a mission to be the ecosystem enabler for the social sector in India by creating knowledge, catalysing leadership, building communities, and providing consultancy. By 2030, we will cumulatively impact 5000+ mid to senior leaders and 1000+ SPOs, directly contributing towards the country’s development agenda encompassing social justice and economic equity.

Connect with her at: linkedin.com/in/anu-prasad-29904563 

Radha Friedman

Global philanthropy advisor helping to unlock funding for gender equality. For over 20 years, I have worked all around the world to support movements that catalyze social change and protect people’s rights. I am also author of the bestselling book, ”Fundraising Without Burnout: Radically Reimagining Philanthropy to Transform Your Impact,” about how we can invest in our social change leaders so they don’t burn out. (Just in case anyone actually reads these bios, I once carried Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's purse.)

Connect with her at: linkedin.com/in/radhafriedman 

Gunjali Singh

I’ve spent over a decade working in the development sector, and a lifetime finding both escape and meaning in good books. Book clubs have been my anchor and helped keep me grounded through many seasons of change.

This podcast brings together two things I care deeply about: powerful stories, and the passionate people working to drive real change in the world. I hope it leaves you with fresh ideas, renewed hope—and a good book recommendation to dive into.

Connect with her at: linkedin.com/in/gunjali-singh-66a970158 

—-

About The Changemakers Book Club

The Changemakers Book Club is where powerful books meet powerful voices. In each episode, host Gunjali sits down with inspiring changemakers to explore stories that spark reflection—and action. It’s part book chat, part deep dive into the world we live in. Come for the books, stay for the bold conversations.