021 - How to Protect Yourself from Creeps and Other Bad Actors in Philanthropy, with Karen Isble

In this episode, host Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv speaks with Karen Isble, Vice President for College Advancement at Kalamazoo College about her work with the Collaborative for Respectful Workplaces in Higher Education Advancement.

Karen shares her journey from opera singer and prospect researcher to frontline fundraising executive, offering insight into the often‑unspoken challenges frontline staffers in philanthropy face when their physical and emotional safety is compromised, and bad donor behavior is excused, because of the size or importance of a donor's gift.

Karen and Michelle explore the "should I stay or go?" dilemma staffers experience when lines are crossed, the grey areas of philanthropy culture, cancel‑culture fears, and how institutions can walk away from charitable gifts to protect staff.

This is a conversation for every leader in philanthropy seeking safer workplaces, clearer boundaries, and the right questions to ask before accepting a job.

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Produced by: Simuel + Murray, MWBE Certified