Is philanthropy on the brink of a $100 trillion wealth transfer—but will that money actually solve problems, or just sit and grow? In this episode, Josh Stamer unpacks how families can move beyond writing checks to design joyful, strategic giving that changes lives in their own communities and around the world.
Why This Episode Matters
Philanthropy is entering a transformational period as trillions of dollars will change hands over the coming decades. This episode challenges us to think differently about generosity-not as an obligation, but as an opportunity to create lasting impact. By giving intentionally, investing in people, and acting while we can experience the results, we have the ability to strengthen our communities, inspire others, and leave a legacy that extends far beyond wealth.
In this Episode, We Discuss:
- Distilling Philanthropy podcast and “bar conversation” concept
- The coming $100 trillion generational wealth transfer
- Private foundations, donor-advised funds, and charitable trusts
- Time, talent, and treasure as frameworks for giving
- Anonymous Philanthropy’s model for building high-impact programs
Lightbulb Moments:
- The impending generational wealth transfer represents a once-in-history chance to redirect massive capital from passive inheritance toward world-changing causes—if families are intentional.
- Structured vehicles like foundations and donor-advised funds matter, but the real leverage comes from aligning giving with personal joy, expertise, and a clear problem to solve.
- Charitable dollars often get trapped in vehicles and endowments; impact requires a conscious shift from simply growing capital to actively deploying it during one’s lifetime.
- Collaboration and reduced ego in the nonprofit sector can dramatically increase effectiveness, especially when many small organizations are tackling nearly identical problems.
- Philanthropy should not be treated as a luxury “extra” after everything else is settled; it can be a primary avenue for influence, fulfillment, and meaningful legacy.
“There’s always more money, there’s never more time.” – Josh Stamer
Josh is passionate about helping successful families and their advisors maximize their philanthropic impact and achieve unprecedented levels of fulfillment. Throughout a career spanning leadership roles in technology, financial services, and philanthropy—including a recent tenure as Senior Managing Director at Foundation Source, where he helped establish more private foundations over the last decade than anyone else in the country—Josh has become a premier expert in charitable giving vehicles. Now leading Philanthropic Strategy at Anonymous Philanthropy, his insights on Generational Wealth Transfer and Entrepreneurial Philanthropy have been featured in Forbes and Barron’s. Personally, Josh and his wife, Veronica, support St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and The Young Life Foundations while raising their two active children, Baron and Gracie. Outside of work, Josh collects sunglasses, plays a very average game of golf, and passionately roots for the Miami Dolphins.
Light Bulb Moments – Episode 213
Designing the Golden Age of Philanthropy with Josh Stamer
The Light Bulb Moment of This Episode
Philanthropy isn’t simply about giving money-it’s about intentionally using your time, talent, and resources to create meaningful impact while inspiring others to do the same.
Light Bulb Moments & Reflections from the Episode
1. Great conversations create great ideas.
Meaningful discussions often happen in unexpected places. Stay curious and be open to conversations that challenge your thinking.
2. Say “yes” to the right opportunities.
Being willing to explore new experiences and conversations often opens doors that would otherwise remain closed.
3. The coming generational wealth transfer is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The unprecedented transfer of wealth presents an incredible chance to shape communities and improve lives for generations.
4. Be intentional about where your money goes.
Rather than allowing wealth to accumulate without purpose, thoughtfully direct it toward causes that align with your values.
5. Give while you can witness the impact.
One of the greatest rewards of philanthropy is seeing the difference your generosity makes during your lifetime.
6. Wealth should create opportunity-not dependency.
Thoughtful giving empowers others to overcome obstacles and build their own paths rather than removing every challenge.
7. Your influence extends far beyond financial gifts.
Time, experience, relationships, and mentorship can often create as much impact as writing a check.
8. Find the intersection of passion and purpose.
The most meaningful philanthropy happens when you support causes that inspire you while addressing real needs.
9. Ask how much impact you can truly create.
Rather than focusing only on the size of a gift, consider the lasting influence your actions can have on individuals and communities.
10. Happiness often grows through helping others.
Serving others not only changes their lives-it also brings greater purpose and fulfillment to your own.
11. Philanthropy is an investment in people.
The greatest return on generosity is seeing individuals, families, and communities thrive because someone believed in them.
12. Turn good intentions into action.
Ideas alone don’t create change. Activate your generosity by taking meaningful steps today rather than waiting for the “perfect” time.
Connect with Josh Stamer:
Website: www.anonymousllc.com, www.distillingphilanthropy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamer-8881597/
Connect with Philip:
Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/
Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw
https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3
Podcast Production by Turnkey Podcast. Thinking of starting a podcast? Get more info at https://turnkeypodcast.com/ or reach out to Doug Sandler directly at Doug@TurnkeyPodcast.com or call 410-340-6861.
You’re the expert. Your podcast will prove it.