A trailblazer and change-maker in the realm of impact investing, Jenn Kenning brings her recognized voice to the podcast to talk about how we always have impact. Recognizing that allows us to make better decisions around our money and our lives.
Jenn Kenning is a trailblazer, collaborator and change-maker who has quickly risen to become one of the most recognized voices in impact investing. In 2014 Jenn co-founded Align, an independent fiduciary and impact specialist that works alongside financial advisors, institutions, foundations and directly with individual clients and family offices, helping integrate impact strategies and investments into the broader wealth management strategy.
A frequent speaker, moderator and guest lecturer, Jenn is committed to building the impact investing ecosystem while leading Align. Jenn was named on the “40 under 40” list by Investment News in 2014, selected for Private Asset Management’s “50 Most Influential Women in Private Wealth” in 2016, and chosen as Investment News Icon and Innovator in 2017.
Jenn began her career in 2002 as a wealth manager at Aspiriant where she served also on the Board of Directions and was a partner of the firm, and left to launch Align.
3 Key Points
- Acting intentionally and actively taking measurements of financial, social, and environmental returns are critical to having impact in the business space.
- To be an impactful leader, you need to live your values and consider all your stakeholders.
- Let your teammates add value to your company. Give them the space they need to succeed.
Quote
“You need to constantly evolve. You need to constantly reinvent yourself as a leader… Surround yourself with the right people [who challenge you].”
What We Talked About
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- 01:00 – How did you come to focus on impact investing?
- 03:05 – How has travel changed your view of impact?
- 05:52 – What is the difference between impact investing and other socially-responsible investing labels?
- 10:20 – On intentionality in business and tips that non-profits can take from the for-profit world
- 12:37 – How do philanthropy, government, and impact investing work together?
- 18:27 – On “waiting” for the market to be ready for your ideas
- 20:45 – On women and young people inheriting the world financial, social, and environmental systems
- 25:20 – What are your thoughts on the shift towards redefining corporations as a multi-stakeholder venture?
- 28:03 – What are the “5 mistakes that mission-driven entrepreneurs should avoid”?
- 29:32 – What does “impactful leadership” look like?
- 31:30 – On how Jenn evolves as a leader
- 33:35 – How do you create a company culture that lets you stay committed to your values?
- 38:05 – What’s your dream for the planet?
Actionable Tips
- Pursue impact your way. There’s not one right path.
- Lead with empathy.
- Find one thing you want to change. What are you doing to change it today?
Resources Mentioned
- Jenn’s company: Align Impact | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Or send Jenn an email.
- Books mentioned:
- Lean Impact by Ann Mei Chang (and my conversation with her)
- The Five Love Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Paul White
- Jenn’s article: “5 Mistakes Mission-Driven Entrepreneurs Should Avoid”
Resources for Your Business
Click here for free resources to increase the impact of your business.
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Ursula Jorch, Host of The Impact Interviews
Ursula Jorch is a business coach, speaker, and podcaster who shows women leaders how to turn their businesses into profitable agents for lasting change, global impact, and a force for good in the world.
