The Wharton Impact Podcast

Green Returns: Cultivo's Bold Bet on Nature with Co-Founder & CEO, Dr. Manuel Piñuela

We were thrilled to welcome to our podcast Dr. Manuel Piñuela, the co-founder and CEO of Cultivo - a Public Benefit Corporation that is committed to accelerating investments in nature-based solutions around the world. By investing in the ecological and economic potential of natural assets, Dr. Manuel Piñuela and his co-founder James Clifton are delivering attractive financial returns to their ecosystem of stakeholders while advancing real-world impact🌎 Dr. Piñuela is no stranger to innovation - or to the high-stakes world of entrepreneurial impact. A scientist, systems thinker, and seasoned founder, Dr. Piñuela is now leading a bold vision at Cultivo: to unlock millions in private capital and leverage cutting-edge technology to identify high-quality natural capital projects - like reforestation and regenerative agriculture - that offer measurable carbon, water, and biodiversity returns, alongside financial ones. Listen in on the conversation, as we sit down with Dr. Piñuela to talk about sustainable finance, biodiversity’s role in the financial system, and the next frontier for natural capital investment☀️🍃🏞️

Power, Policy, and the Planet: Bob Scher on Leading Energy Policy Across Sector

In this episode of the Wharton Impact Podcast, host Joselyn Salazar Garcia sits down with Bob Scher, former Vice President and Head of International Affairs for BP America and former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities. Drawing from his decades of experience at the intersection of government and corporate strategy, Bob offers unique insights into how energy policy is shaped by both public and private sector dynamics. From navigating geopolitical tensions to managing the energy transition and advising on national security, Bob reflects on pivotal career moments and shares guidance for future leaders seeking to drive meaningful impact in the energy sector. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on energy, security, leadership, and the future of global cooperation.

Dream Big, Lead Boldly: Lessons from Dr. Utaukwa Allen

How do you transition from a career in law to shaping global economic development at one of the world’s biggest tech companies? In this episode of the Wharton Impact Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Utaukwa Allen, Global Head of Economic and Community Development for Data Centers at Google. Dr. Allen shares her journey from corporate law to international development, her passion for driving sustainable and inclusive growth, and the leadership principles that have guided her across roles at Google, Microsoft, and Kyndryl. Tune in as we explore the intersection of business, technology, and social impact—and the bold steps it takes to create meaningful change.

Redefining Education: Driving Social Impact Through Innovation with Jay Bakhru

On this episode, we’re diving into the world of education innovation with Jay Bakhru, founding partner of EdSolutions. From leading groundbreaking initiatives at the intersection of education markets, innovation, and social impact to improving outcomes for underserved students, Jay is on a mission to transform how we think about education. With a career spanning roles as a middle school teacher, CEO of an EdTech company, marketing executive at Citigroup, and strategy consultant at Deloitte, Jay brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Beyond EdSolutions, he’s a powerhouse in the education ecosystem—chairing the Wharton Education Network, advising and investing in EdTech companies, and shaping the next wave of education entrepreneurship through his work with Penn GSE and contributions to EdSurge and Forbes.

Caroline Bressan

In this episode of the Wharton Social Impact Podcast, we are joined by Caroline Bressan, CEO of Open Road, a bridge lender for mission-driven companies, funds, and projects that accelerate climate solutions or reduce inequality. Previously, she was an Investment Principal at D. Capital, the investment advisory arm of Dalberg, focusing on impact investments in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in energy and agriculture, and designing innovative financing mechanisms like impact bonds and social impact insurance. Earlier in her career at Calvert Foundation, Caroline managed a $20 million portfolio in Latin America, designed and launched its first revolving line of credit, and helped launch the international component of the Women Investing in Women Initiative. Join us as we speak about everything from impact investing in emerging markets to internship opportunities for MBA students breaking into the social sector.