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Voices for Impact: Must-Listen Podcasts Driving Social Good

Mumbai
Podcast
Illustration: Madhura Bante / Simit Bhagat Studios

Did you know that 75% of listeners say podcasts have contributed to their “understanding of communities outside their own”?

What makes podcasts so effective is their accessibility and authenticity. They allow organisations to forge deeper connections, share purpose-driven narratives, and spark meaningful action. Let’s explore how some organisations are harnessing this medium to start conversations that truly matter.

Top 10 Social Impact Podcasts in India

1. Decoding Impact

Ever wondered how large-scale social challenges can be tackled with innovative solutions? Decoding Impact dives deep into these pressing issues. Hosted by Rathish Balakrishnan of the Sattva Knowledge Institute podcast, it now has several seasons under its belt and has featured the field’s leaders discussing the complexities of systemic change.

  • Launched: Date unavailable, but it’s been around for a while!
  • Impact: Doubles the power of your critical thinking capabilities and puts you in direct communication with a network of change makers.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/34bmaw46 
  • Why Tune In: Engaging interviews, practical insights, and evidence-based approaches.

2. Avanti: Yes She Can

Listen to this podcast for young women on how to break the STEM ceiling. Presented by Vandana Goyal of Avanti Fellows, it features spectacular examples of women who have reached the top in these fields.

  • Launched: August 19, 2024
  • Impact: Excellent recommendations to be motivated by the experiences of real-world STEM professionals and advice on navigating STEM careers.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/49ytw6d8 
  • Why Tune In: Statistics and data can tell us what has already occurred, but anecdotes and cases can give us ideas of what to do.

3. Grassroots Nation

If you enjoy stories of changemakers on the grassroots level, this is the one for you. Rohini Nilekani talks about the efforts of grassroots organisations and individuals who bring about real changes in India.

  • Launched: 2023
  • Impact: Celebrates unsung heroes while inspiring broader social engagement.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/2p8rw4rm 
  • Why Tune In: Encounter stories that often go untold, move you, and inspire you to take action.

4. All Things Policy

For those curious about governance, economics, and public policy, All Things Policy serves it all with clarity. Professionals from Takshashila Institution unpack complex topics in a way that’s both relatable and insightful.

  • Launched: 2018
  • Impact: It keeps you informed about policy issues that affect all of us.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/4kv2h3ku 
  • Why Tune In: Expert takes on everything from technology to politics—without the jargon.

5. Everyone a Changemaker

This Ashoka podcast is a tribute to the life of social entrepreneurs who are changing the course of lives and communities. Expect inspiring stories of innovation and perseverance.

  • Launched: 2022
  • Impact: Encourages listeners to get involved in creating meaningful changes.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/3sem2b9h 
  • Why Tune In: The feel-good motivation to make a difference in your own way.

6. Advocacy, Passion & Beyond: Voices from the SI Leader Lab

Join host Japleen Pasricha as she investigates the life stories of leaders, changemakers, etc. Their stories are emotional, empowering and certainly are going to rekindle your feelings of activism for social justice.

  • Launched: 2022
  • Impact: Showcases diverse perspectives and challenges of driving social change.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/46pd7dnh 
  • Why Tune In: Globally relevant conversations that hit home for aspiring activists.

7. Giving Done Right

Want to donate smarter? Phil Buchanan and Grace Nicolette from the Centre for Effective Philanthropy offer actionable tips on making your philanthropy truly impactful.

  • Launched: 2023
  • Impact: Guides listeners on making charitable giving more meaningful.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/2muebvk9 
  • Why Tune In: Practical advice served up in a warm, conversational style.

8. Ei Dialogues

Here’s a podcast for education enthusiasts. Ei Dialogues tackles issues related to education by suggesting and bringing new insights that can lead to improved quality and equity.

  • Launched: July 2, 2020
  • Impact: Emphasises new ways of addressing the issues regarding the education system.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/2dx9bd7t 
  • Why Tune In: Thought-provoking discussions with experts who truly care about learning.

9. Care of the State

Focusing on child welfare, this podcast by Catalysts for Social Action amplifies the voices of vulnerable children and advocates for systemic change.

  • Launched: 2023
  • Impact: Creates awareness and pushes for better policies to protect children.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/bdm4fnpt 
  • Why Tune In: An anecdotal view on the lives of vulnerable children who need us most.

10. Air Tight

Comedian Raghav Mandava chats with experts to uncover why we’re polluting our own air—and how we can fix it. Learn about what you can do to make a difference.

  • Launched: June 24, 2023
  • Impact: Promotes energy-efficient solutions for a greener planet.
  • Listen to the podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/3he38k9e  
  • Why Tune In: Perfect for anyone keen on blending sustainability with innovation.

Conclusion

Podcasts are transforming how nonprofits connect with their communities, offering a versatile, cost-effective, and impactful medium to share stories, build trust, and inspire action.

At Simit Bhagat Studios, we also believe in the transformative potential of podcasts. Hosted by our founder, Simit Bhagat, our podcast – Stories of Change features conversations with professionals from the third sector and beyond. The series shines a light on inspiring stories, provides valuable insights, and shares actionable knowledge in the realm of social impact.

Do you have a story of change to share? We’re always looking for passionate voices and transformative experiences to feature on our podcast. Whether you’re an innovator, advocate, or changemaker, your journey could inspire and inform others in making a difference.

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Rahul More

Video Editor

Rahul works on video editing and motion graphics across various formats. He previously worked in post-production at Sallys, with experience across commercials, web series, and digital content. He has over three years of experience in video editing and motion graphics. He enjoys reading, playing cricket, fish keeping and making short films. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media (Journalism) and a Diploma in Filmmaking from Rachana Sansad Institute, Mumbai.

Abhinav S S

Illustrator

Abhinav works on in-house blog illustrations, storyboarding and various visual projects aligned with the studio’s creative direction. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Communication from National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Bhopal. He has played competitive cricket for the state of Kerala and has a strong interest in painting and graffiti.

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Swanand Deo

Web Development Specialist

Swanand Deo is a WordPress and Web Development Specialist working on various digital projects. With over a decade of experience in the design and development space, he has collaborated with over 50 national and international clients. He specialises in User Experience (UX) design, WordPress development, and creating engaging digital experiences. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Pune.

Aashna Chandra

Graphic Designer

Aashna works on publications, UI/UX and branding projects at SBS. She has previously worked with organisations across the social impact and development space. Her work focuses on layout design, visual identity systems and user interfaces across print and digital formats. She studied at the United Institute of Design, Gandhinagar, specialising in branding, typography, editorial design and packaging.

Vivek Warang

Digital Illustrator

Vivek works on translating ideas into visual narratives. His work ranges from creating storyboards and illustrations to ideation for special visual storytelling projects. He previously worked as an illustrator at OckyPocky. He enjoys telling stories through images and bringing concepts to life through his drawings. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Arts from D.Y. Patil College, Pune, with a specialisation in Illustration.

Rajshree Goswami

Content Writer

Rajshree began her professional journey in Kolkata and has over four years of experience as a creative writer and proofreader for academic papers. At SBS, she works across all content, including blogs, transcripts, quality checks and writing for annual reports. She is an avid reader and enjoys cinema, fiction and creative writing. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Honours from West Bengal State University.

Bhavesh Dhote

Founder’s Office

Bhavesh is part of the Founder’s Office, working across in-house operations, social media strategy, strategic initiatives, market research and film production. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering with a Diploma in AI and Machine Learning from D.J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Mumbai. He is also a professional badminton player, marathon runner, trekker and plays euphonium and trumpet.

Manish Mandavkar

Motion Editor

Manish Mandavkar has studied animation at Arena Animation in Mumbai. He has previously worked on animated videos and motion graphics for brands, including Unilever and Zee Movies. An avid gamer, he is also passionate about sketching and photography. He holds a degree in Commerce from the University of Mumbai.

Joel Machado

Film Editor

Mumbai-based creative consultant and film editor Joel Machado has worked on documentaries as well as films in the mainstream Bollywood sector. He was also the Chief Assistant Director on the Jackie Shroff short, “The Playboy, Mr. Sawhney.” In addition to earning a B.Com from Mumbai University, he attended the city’s Digital Academy to hone his script writing skills.

Rohit Sreekumar

Founder’s Office

Rohit is responsible for developing strategic alliances and collaborative initiatives in the social sector. He also works on project management and helps internal teams stay on track. He has previously worked at early-stage startups across product and growth roles. In his free time, he enjoys binge-watching series, gaming and reading. He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Applications from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Karnataka.

Aliefya Vahanvaty

Sr. Creative Partner

Senior Creative Partner, Aliefya Vahanvaty has worked in a wide range of editorial roles over the course of her career, gaining experience as a correspondent, copy editor, writer, photographer, and assistant editor at publications like the Times of India, Forbes India, Open Magazine, Impact Magazine, and others. In addition to her MA in Sociology from Mumbai University, she also has an MA in Photojournalism from the University of Westminster in the United Kingdom.

Simit Bhagat

Founder

Founder, Simit Bhagat has worked in the fields of filmmaking, project management, and journalism for over 15 years. He has served in a variety of positions for organisations like the Times of India, the Maharashtra Forest Department, the Tata Trusts, and the Thomson Reuters Foundation. From the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom, he earned a Master of Arts in Science, Society, and Development.