Project Good Podcast

Trailblazing Science Diplomacy with Dr. Zara Lurman

In this episode of Project Good podcast, host Annmarie Hilton interviews Dr. Zara Lurman, a renowned chemist, educator, and peacebuilder who has pioneered the use of science diplomacy to foster collaboration in conflict regions. Dr. Lurman discusses her extraordinary journey from growing up in conflict-ridden Israel to becoming a global advocate for science education and human rights. Key topics include her innovative methods of teaching science through the arts, her extensive work with underprivileged communities, and the founding of the Malta Conferences, which unite scientists from hostile nations to tackle global challenges. This episode highlights Dr. Lurman's impactful career and her vision for using science to create a more peaceful and collaborative world.

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:32 Global Conflicts Overview

01:25 Interview with Dr. Zara Lurman

03:54 Dr. Lurman's Childhood and Early Influences

16:43 Innovative Science Education Methods

32:01 Human Rights and Political Activism

41:13 The Malta Conferences for Peace

50:38 Conclusion and Call to Action

 

Dr. Zafra Lerman is a world-renowned chemist, educator, and peacebuilder who has pioneered the use of science diplomacy to foster dialogue and collaboration in the world’s most volatile regions.

As founder and president of the Malta Conferences Foundation, she brings together scientists from countries in conflict—including Israel, Palestine, Iran, Iraq, and others across the Middle East—to work side by side on scientific challenges that transcend borders, from water scarcity to nuclear proliferation.

Beyond diplomacy, Dr. Lerman has spent decades fighting for human rights—advocating for persecuted scientists in the Soviet Union and China, including risking her own safety by venturing after midnight through dark alleys in Moscow to meet dissidents.

She also developed groundbreaking methods to teach science through the arts, reaching underprivileged students, including homeless youth and incarcerated individuals, by making chemistry accessible through music, dance, and visual storytelling.

Her work has been recognized globally, including multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations, the U.S. Presidential Award for Mentoring Minorities in Science presented by President Bill Clinton, and the prestigious Andrei Sakharov Award for Human Rights from the American Physical Society. She has also been honored by UNESCO, the U.S. State Department, and leading peace and science organizations worldwide. In 2025, she was awarded the International Advocate of Peace Award. Previous awardees include President Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, Bishop Tutu, and Sir Paul McCartney

With a powerful personal story and decades of experience at the intersection of science, education, and diplomacy, Dr. Lerman offers unforgettable conversations about international cooperation, women in STEM, human rights, and how science can be a force for peace.

She is also the author of the memoir, Human Rights and Peace: A Personal Odyssey, which shares the dramatic true stories behind her life’s work. Proceeds support future Malta Conferences and peacebuilding efforts.

Exploring Resilience and Community with Entrepreneur Joe Edgar In this special flash episode of the Project Good Podcast, hosted by Annemarie Hilton, we delve into the life journey of Joe Edgar, a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Loca. The conversation explores Joe's experiences growing up on a reservation, his early start in real estate, and his transition into the tech industry. Joe discusses his perspective on life, resilience, community, and the importance of hard work. He also introduces Loca, his innovative app aimed at supporting small businesses and local communities. The episode highlights critical issues like poverty, wealth distribution, and the role of small businesses in the economy.

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:26 Special Guest: Joe Edgar's Background

02:04 Joe Edgar's Early Life and Influences

06:36 The Importance of Community and Real Estate

20:42 Transition to Technology and Education

31:13 Resilience and Perspective from Ukraine

33:16 Resilience Amidst Adversity

33:40 Comparing Hardships

34:40 The Spider Web of Debt

35:27 The Mental Aspect of Poverty

6:54 True Wealth and Capitalism

38:55 Family Dynamics and Motivation

41:26 Growing Up on a Reservation

44:43 Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

50:30 The Silver Tsunami and Wealth Distribution

59:14 Supporting Local Businesses with Loca

01:04:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

Bio for Joe Edgar

Joe Edgar is the founder and CEO of Loca, which helps small businesses find, manage and reward customers. Prior to Loca Joe founded TenantCloud and was the CEO of Rentler. Prior to TenantCloud he was a Principal with Petros Partners and prior to that, the Managing Director of the J4T Venture Fund; a $50 million venture fund focused on Texas early-stage companies.

He was also a member of the U.S. Treasury’s SSBCI Venture Capital Steering Committee. Prior to the J4T Venture Fund, he was with Governor Rick Perry and managed $487 million in state authority with a focus on Texas’ early stage and emerging companies. He was also an advisor to the Texas Rural Health & Economic Development Advisory Committee. He is a founding member of the Texas Pace Authority, a non-profit, which aims to bring clean energy to Texas commercial property owners. Joe also has an extensive background in real estate investing and development, which started when he was 14, and now includes investments in Texas, Oregon, Arizona, and Utah. Joe is writer for Forbes and a graduate of the University of Oregon with high honors, holds an MBA from Cornell, and is a Kauffman Fellow.

In this special flash episode of the Project Good Podcast, hosted by Annmarie Hilton, the focus is on the critical issue of literacy in the United States. Featuring guest Dr. Glen Toby, a globally recognized entrepreneur and founder of the Book Bank Foundation, the episode explores the alarming literacy rates in the U.S., where 21% of adults struggle with basic literacy tasks. Dr. Toby shares his personal journey from homelessness to success, emphasizing the importance of education and literacy. The conversation also delves into the role of technology, societal changes, and the impact of low literacy rates on communities. Dr. Toby discusses his foundation's mission to promote literacy and the broader implications for social justice and community empowerment.

00:00 Welcome to Project Good Podcast
00:30 Understanding Literacy in the US
01:29 Introducing Dr. Glen Toby
03:56 Dr. Toby's Journey and Insights
12:40 The Impact of Technology on Literacy
22:12 The Book Bank Foundation's Mission
28:19 Closing Remarks and Resources

Bio for Dr. Toby:

Dr. Glenn Toby  is a globally recognized entrepreneur, wealth advisor, and humanitarian whose life journey exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and purpose. Once a child facing homelessness on the streets of Brooklyn, he has since become a music industry pioneer, trusted advisor to elite athletes and entertainers, and the founder of The Book Bank Foundation—a nationally respected literacy and service organization.

As CEO of Glenn Toby Enterprises (GTE), Dr. Toby leads a dynamic international holding company with investments in real estate, asset management, technology, entertainment, and athlete representation. Over his 30-year career, he has managed and advised an impressive roster of clients, including LL Cool J, Lance Reddick,  NFL legends Asante Samuel and Antonio Freeman, World Champion Boxer O’Neil "Supernova" Bell, and actor Jason Weaver.

The Book Bank Foundation promotes literacy by providing books and literature to underprivileged children and adult members of our communities and provides resources for combating abuse, hunger, and homelessness. The organization led by Dr. Glenn Toby has a vision to decrease illiteracy through sound and innovative methods that promote learning, social awareness, and individual prosperity.

Dr. Toby’s work has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, and on major media platforms, yet his greatest impact remains rooted in his unwavering commitment to community, literacy, and legacy.

Currently serving as a board member for the Peter Tosh Foundation, Dr. Toby continues to champion causes that empower future generations.

In this episode of the Project Good podcast, host Anne Marie Hilton discusses raising autistic children and the Neurodiversity Movement with Stephanie Fluger, co-founder of the Connection Therapy Clinic. The podcast explores topics such as the evolving understanding of autism, the importance of early intervention, and the role of various therapies in supporting autistic children. Hilton and Fluger emphasize acceptance, inclusion, and the importance of community support. Fluger shares her personal experiences raising her autistic son and offers advice for parents navigating a new autism diagnosis. The episode also touches on the impact of technology and the concept of autistic burnout. Fluger provides insights into overcoming the challenges and fostering a nurturing environment for neurodiverse families.

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast
00:26 Understanding Neurodiversity and Autism
01:25 Interview with Stephanie Fluger: Personal Experiences
02:57 Autism Statistics and Early Diagnosis
04:31 Challenges and Misconceptions in Autism
06:42 The Importance of Early Intervention
24:29 Autism Spectrum and Support Needs
36:19 Community Support and Advocacy
44:45 Generational Parenting Differences
46:38 The Importance of Play-Based Therapy
50:27 Challenges of Modern Parenting
54:27 Technology's Role in Autism
01:00:47 Understanding Autistic Burnout
01:06:28 Therapies for Autism
01:15:04 Advice for New Autism Parents
01:18:05 Conclusion and Resources

 

Stephanie Fluger - co-founder of the Connection Therapy Clinic.

She helps give parents and people a perspective of what it’s really like to raise a neurodivergent child, and the struggles that come with it and what can be real solutions.

Stephanie, a distinguished expert in neurodivergent parent support, stands as a community change maker, driving inclusivity and promoting autism acceptance.

As a devoted mother to both a neurodivergent child and a neurotypical youngster, Stephanie's personal experiences have fueled her commitment to enhancing the lives of neurodiverse families.

In pursuit of her vision, Stephanie founded the Connection Therapy Clinic, a pediatric speech and occupational therapy that specializes in neurodiverse-affirming practices. Committed to child-led, play-based therapy, the clinic's mission resonates with a powerful message: "We want this place to be like your comfort food—nurturing, empowering, and all-around awesome."

The clinic's tagline, "Empowering families, supporting the community," reflects Stephanie's dedication to extending the positive impact beyond individual families to the broader community. With a focus on evidence-based practices, the clinic ensures that every therapeutic intervention aligns with the latest advancements in the field.

In this episode of Project Good podcast, host Annmarie Hylton delves into the evolving landscape of disability inclusion with Jenna Udenberg, founder of Above and Beyond with You, a disability advocacy organization. They discuss the historical context of disability rights, the impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the ongoing challenges and opportunities for creating truly accessible spaces. Jenna shares her personal journey, touching on her transition from a music educator to a disability advocate. The conversation highlights the importance of interdependence, the misconceptions about accessibility costs, and the inspiring success stories of local community efforts. Tools and strategies for making homes and public spaces more inclusive, the significance of universal design, and the role of technology in accessibility are also explored. For more information about Jenna Udenberg and her work, visit AboveandBeyondwithU.org.

 

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:33 History of Disability Rights

01:39 Interview with Jenna Udenberg

05:58 Jenna's Musical Journey

09:42 Founding Above and Beyond with You

14:15 Defining Disability Inclusion and Accessibility

20:02 Challenges and Future of Disability Advocacy

26:33 Understanding Spoon Theory and Energy Management

27:37 Challenges of Technology for Disabled Individuals

28:08 Valuing Every Life and Overcoming Ableism

35:01 Success Stories and Community Impact

37:05 Research and Innovation in Accessibility

39:28 Creating Inclusive Spaces and Asking Questions

46:58 Strategic Goals and Future Plans

49:29 The Importance of Disability Inclusion

53:37 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the Project Good Podcast, Annmarie Hylton interviews Morgan DeNicola, the executive director of the DeNicola Family Foundation. The foundation is dedicated to advancing world health, cultural diplomacy, conservation, and humanitarian recognition. Morgan shares her experiences in overcoming personal challenges and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. She discusses her involvement with the Humpty Dumpty Institute and their efforts to address global issues through cultural exchange and dialogue. Morgan emphasizes the significance of recognizing and encouraging young people in charitable activities, staying focused on core values, and the need for open-mindedness and personal accountability in philanthropy. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of sustaining long-term impact and the role of proper guidance for youth in making a positive difference.

 

00:00 Welcome to the Project Good Podcast

00:54 Introducing the DeNicola Family Foundation

01:30 Interview with Morgan DeNicola Begins

03:40 Morgan's Personal Journey and Insights

10:41 The Importance of Philanthropy and Accountability

17:08 Morgan's Work with the Humpty Dumpty Institute

30:53 Challenges and Perspectives in Philanthropy

36:32 Recognizing Humanitarian Champions

41:31 Staying Focused and Making an Impact

45:32 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Morgan DeNicola  is the Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation. The Foundation incorporates the four Passions of World Health, Humanitarian Recognition, Conservation and Cultural Diplomacy. Morgan recognizes the importance of doing good while recognizing those who are equally committed. Morgan is the Vice Chairman of the Humpty Dumpty Institute (HDI) in New York. HDI works around the world to inform and foster dialogue amongst critical stakeholders on key global issues. They do this through their programs with the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Department of State, United Nations, and International Embassies, engaging young people, supporting cultural diplomacy, and working on humanitarian programs.

Morgan during her time working alongside the United Nations, she has led trips to Beijing China in for the Taihe Global Civilization Forum and to Malawi where the level of poverty she saw there kicked off a fundraising initiative, called the Cosmo Cares Mobile Healthcare Van. The Van services remote villages of Lesotho, Africa. Recently Morgan led a congressional delegation in Rwanda.

In this episode of the Project Good Podcast, host Annmarie Hylton discusses the future of farming with Jesse Hirsh, a futurist, speaker, consultant, and goat herder based in rural eastern Ontario. Jesse shares his perspective on the vital role of farming in feeding the global population, supporting economies, and preserving the environment. The conversation delves into modern challenges such as climate change, soil erosion, and food insecurity, while also exploring innovative solutions like precision agriculture, robotics, and sustainable practices. Jesse emphasizes the importance of bridging the urban-rural divide, fostering community connections, and empowering new farmers through technology and sustainable methods. The episode explores the potential of genetic engineering, CRISPR technology, and blockchain in enhancing agricultural practices and ensuring food security. Jesse encourages listeners to engage with their local food systems, support sustainable farming, and embrace a holistic approach to agriculture.

 

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:22 The Importance of Farming

01:52 Interview with Jesse Hirsh: A Futurist's Perspective

03:05 Challenges Facing Modern Food Systems

03:48 The Appeal of Goat Herding

07:09 Jesse's Journey to Farming

17:03 The Disconnect from Nature

25:46 Sustainable Farming Practices and Technology

33:03 The Future of Farming: Radical Change or Gradual Implementation?

34:39 The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture

35:24 The Importance of New Farmers and Sustainable Practices

35:43 The Broken Education System and Self-Learning in Farming

38:42 The Impact of Politics on Food Systems

40:58 The Power of Gardening and Collective Responsibility

44:00 The Potential and Risks of Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

48:45 Blockchain and Transparency in the Agricultural Supply Chain

51:29 Global Perspectives on Farming and Technology

57:44 Community and Individual Actions for a Better Food Future

01:00:23 Closing Thoughts and Personal Insights

 

Jesse Hirsh is a futurist, speaker, consultant, and goatherd who brings an outsider's perspective, operating from his farm in rural Eastern Ontario. Yet this is no ordinary farm. Wired up with high-speed fiber optic Internet, the Academy of the Impossible engages in a wide range of research regarding agriculture, media, technology, and culture.

With almost 30 years of professional experience Jesse Hirsh is a broadcaster, researcher, public speaker and Internet evangelist in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He has appeared on CBC Radio, and has a weekly spot on CBC Newsworld where he explains and analyses trends and developments in technology. He co-hosts an interfaith show on Omni Television called 3D: Dialogue.

Jesse has an infectious energy that lifts spirits and enables creative thinking. He’s always learning, sharing, and helping others to do the same.
To learn more about Jesse Hirsh go to: https://jessehirsh.com/

In this episode of the Project Good Podcast, host Annmarie Hylton interviews Hali Lee, a prominent figure in social impact and philanthropy. Hali shares her journey from her Korean-American upbringing to her influential roles, including the founder of Radiant Strategies and co-founder of the Donors of Color Network. The discussion delves into the systematic exclusion of minorities from traditional philanthropy, emphasizing the need for democratizing and diversifying the field. Hali introduces her concepts of collective giving and the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots of generosity. The episode also touches on practical ways individuals can engage in civic duties and philanthropy to address pressing social issues effectively.

 

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:34 The Exclusion of Minorities in Philanthropy

01:51 Interview with Hali Lee: Democratizing Philanthropy

02:58 Hali Lee's Background and Career

04:32 The Concept of Giving Circles

07:50 Hali Lee's Book and Its Timeliness

08:39 Philanthropy as Civic Engagement

09:25 The Impact of Loneliness and Community Giving

12:18 Democratizing and Diversifying Philanthropy

19:03 Wealthy People of Color and Philanthropy

23:15 The Power Dynamics in Philanthropy

29:34 The Need for Reeducation in Philanthropy

32:01 The Power of Collectives vs. Individualism

32:58 The Role of Technology in Modern Problems

36:23 The Importance of Civic Engagement

37:02 Philanthropy and Civic Education

37:47 Community Engagement and Local Issues

41:42 The Big We: A Collective Approach

44:14 Practical Steps for Civic Engagement

44:45 The Inspiration Behind 'The Big We'

54:32 Advice for Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy

01:00:45 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

 

Hali Lee

Hali Lee was born in Seoul, South Korea and grew up in Kansas City. She graduated from Princeton University, studied Buddhism at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand, and received a Masters in Social Work from New York University. Hali has worked in many capacities and served on many boards, often combining a love of learning, the arts and equitable social change.
Ms. Lee has spent her career doing her best to democratize and diversify the field and practice of philanthropy. She is the founder of Radiant Strategies and a co-founder of the Donors of Color Network, the first ever national project that is researching, engaging and networking high net wealth donors of color across race, ethnicity and life experience. She was a member of the co-design team that birthed Philanthropy Together in 2020, built to scale and strengthen the burgeoning collective giving movement nationally, and is a member of its inaugural advisory board. Hali is the founder of the Asian Women Giving Circle, which raises resources for Asian American women using the arts to bring about social change in their NYC communities. In fifteen years, the Circle has made grants of over one million dollars in support of eighty amazing projects.
Hali’s first book, The Big We,  hit the shelves earlier this year and it covers how giving circles can strengthen change.

In this episode of the Project Good Podcast, host Annmarie Hylton interviews Michael Bach, an internationally recognized expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). They discuss the origins and evolution of DEI initiatives, the challenges and backlashes faced by organizations, and the importance of sustainable and authentic DEI efforts. Bach shares his journey and insights into the financial and ethical imperatives of fostering inclusive work environments. They also explore the complexities of hiring for DEI roles and the critical need for long-term systemic change. This episode offers practical advice for businesses aiming to strengthen their DEI strategies amidst a rapidly shifting landscape.

 

00:00 Welcome to Project Good Podcast

00:26 The Evolution of DEI Initiatives

01:18 Introducing Michael Bach: DEI Expert

04:19 Michael Bach's Journey into DEI

07:00 Current State of DEI in 2025

14:05 Economic Impact of DEI Rollbacks

20:59 Ethics and Business: A Complex Relationship

25:19 Defining DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

30:32 The Post-COVID DEI Landscape

33:35 Advice for Companies on DEI

36:51 Challenges and Misconceptions in DEI

43:32 Creating Inclusive Work Environments

48:52 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Guest Bio

DEI expert Michael Bach who is a nationally and internationally recognized thought leader and subject matter expert in the fields of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. He is the founder of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), CCDI Consulting  and Pride at Work Canada.

Michael has worked professionally in the areas of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility for nearly 20 years, most recently as the founding CEO of CCDI and CCDI Consulting.

Prior to taking on this role, he was the national leader for diversity, equity, and inclusion for KPMG Canada. Additionally, Michael spent 2½ years as Deputy Chief Diversity Officer for KPMG International.

Over the course of his career, Michael has received repeated recognition for his work, including being named:

• Women of Influence’s Canadian Diversity Champions

• Catalyst Canada Honours Human Resources/Diversity Leader

• Inspire Award as LGBTQ Person of the Year

• Out on Bay Street Leaders to be Proud of LGBT Advocate Workplace Award

• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council’s IS Award

• Canadian HR Reporter Individual Achievement Award

In 2023, he was named as one of the 10 Most Influential DE&I Leaders Revamping The Future by CIO Views Magazine.

 

DEI expert Michael Bach covers many of these topics and issues in his 2020 book Birds of All Feathers: Doing Diversity and Inclusion Right which is a Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, and Amazon bestseller, and he recipient of the silver 2020 Nautilus Book Award in the category of Rising to the Moment, and a finalist in the Legacy Nonfiction category for the American Bookfest's Best Book Awards. His new book Alphabet Soup: The Essential Guide to LGBTQ2+ Inclusion at Work released in March of 2022 and is a Toronto Star bestseller and finalist in the General Nonfiction category for the American Bookfest's Best Book Awards.

In this episode of Project Good, host Annmarie Hylton interviews Neil Curtis, leader of Farm Up Jamaica, a local initiative aimed at revitalizing Jamaica's agricultural sector through climate-smart organic farming. The discussion covers the evolution of farming in Jamaica, the socioeconomic challenges faced by local farmers, and the comprehensive support model employed by Farm Up Jamaica. Curtis shares his personal journey into farming, the collaborative efforts of the Jamaican diaspora, and the importance of reeducating farmers with modern techniques. The episode also highlights the critical role of community-driven initiatives in fostering economic development and food security.

 

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:31 The Evolution of Farming in Jamaica

01:02 Introducing Farm Up Jamaica

02:28 Interview with Neil Curtis Begins

02:40 Challenges in Jamaican Agriculture

07:31 The Birth of Farm Up Jamaica

21:14 Community-Driven Farming Initiatives

26:57 The Importance of Local Farming

37:09 Empowering Jamaican Youth Through Agriculture

50:41 Call to Action for the Jamaican Diaspora

56:20 Conclusion and Contact Information

 

Farm Up Jamaica is a local initiative aimed at addressing some of the key challenges facing the agricultural sector in Jamaica. The program focuses on empowering Jamaican farmers, increasing food production, and promoting sustainable farming practices. It was launched in 2016 by the Jamaican Government, with the support of private sector entities, and other stakeholders. The program is designed to promote agricultural development, food security, and job creation within the rural economy.

Neil Curtis who leads FarmUp Jamaica and has decided to pursue a long-time heart-felt objective to tackle the current economic crisis in Jamaica through the revitalization of agriculture with climate smart organic farming.

With a strong family history in Jamaican farming, Neil understands the value and tradition of farming to live. In 2013, during the Jamaica Diaspora Conference, Neil met Jamaicans from the US, UK and Canada who shared a common, heart-felt concern regarding the underutilized agricultural sector. In contrast to Tourism, which represents 60% of the Jamaican Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Agriculture only represents 6% of the economy. Together, the Diaspora organized to form Farm Up Jamaica Ltd. which would work to help safeguard jobs & food security in addition to reducing crime through large-scale cultivation of organic produce.