This episode dives into the creation of the new report: “Reimagining Gender Lens Investing Futures: Possibilities and Perspectives from the Field” and the pivotal role of the 2025 Convergence event. Joy is joined by some of the authors of the report - Sanjana Chhantyal and Susie Pan - to discuss how the original plans for Convergence shifted, leading to a focus on reimagining the future of the gender lens investing field. They highlight the need to expand beyond dominant narratives and bring in a diverse range of voices and strategies.

Together, they look at how the report can be used as a fundraising and strategy tool, encouraging field builders to reflect on their own roles, share their stories, and collaborate toward shaping the future. Looking ahead, they share excitement for Convergence 2026 and the collective opportunities to advance innovation, imagination, and systemic change in gender lens investing.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 05:26 - Diversity and Representation in the Field
• 08:48 - Standardization vs. Contextualization
• 11:46 - The Role of Power Dynamics
• 14:27 - Navigating Expectations and Responsibilities
• 17:39 - The Future of Gender Lens Investing
• 20:26 - Call to Action for Funders
• 23:28 - Imagination and Innovation in the Field
• 26:48 - Conclusion and Reflections

Relevant Links

• Read the report
• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn
• Susie's LinkedIn
• Sanjana's LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy reflects on Criterion's ongoing work to leverage finance as a tool to reduce Gender-Based Violence (GBV). She discusses the progress made in building evidence, creating tools, and training thousands of investors and social change leaders worldwide. She emphasizes that reducing GBV is complex and requires deep, collaborative strategies — not quick fixes.

The episode outlines the next phase of Criterion’s work: scaling action by amplifying success stories, providing more advanced education for both investors and practitioners, and creating spaces for collaboration, such as the February 2026 Convergence conference, which will focus entirely on GBV.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:29 - Financing Gender-Based Violence Reduction
• 05:34 - Building Evidence and Mobilizing Action
• 09:24 - Teaching and Learning for Social Change
• 13:12 - Engaging New Allies and Resources
• 17:18 - Convergence 2026 and Community Building

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy discusses the often-overlooked potential of conference panels and networking. She reflects on how panels can be transformed from mundane presentations into engaging dialogues that prioritize audience interaction.

Joy also recounts some memorable advice she got from Van Jones over 20 years ago about the importance of genuine networking, encouraging attendees to connect with those they might overlook, and fostering a culture of hospitality and openness.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:43 - Reimagining Conference Panels
• 14:35 - Advice from Van Jones - The Art of Networking at Conferences

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn
• What is a Panel Discussion and Is it Relevant for Today's Meetings?

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy explores the complexities and paradoxes surrounding checklists in the context of gender lens investing and systems change. She highlights their limitations in fostering understanding and meaningful action, but also discusses how checklists can serve as tools for compliance and control.

Joy advocates for a shift from traditional checklists to 'trust lists' that prioritize relationships, safety, and transparency in systems, ultimately aiming for transformative change in financial practices and power dynamics.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 03:15 - A rant on Checklists
• 06:37 - Checklists: Control vs. Understanding
• 09:54 - Checklists Redeemed: Tools for Safety and Trust
• 16:28 - Compliance and Relationships in Systems
• 19:47 - Rethinking Checklists: Trust Lists vs. Checklists

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy and the Vice President of the Criterion Institute, Susie Pan, explore the concept of 'investable hope' - a compelling idea that combines finance with the notion of hope for a better future. They discuss the importance of hope in times of crisis, the shift from individual to collective hope, and how investments can be a pathway to creating a more equitable society.

And finally, Joy discusses Criterion's practice of prioritising relationships with people who are responsible for their own hope.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:17 - The Role of Hope in Crisis
• 07:48 - Collective vs. Individual Hope
• 11:42 - Investing in a Better Future
• 17:48 - Practice - Responsibility for One's Own Hope

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn
• Susie's LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy explores the complexities of existential crises, burnout, and the importance of self-reflection. She discusses the challenges of feeling overwhelmed in today's world, the difference between self-diagnosis and honest reflection, and the significance of autonomy and control in one's work life. Joy emphasizes the need for structure and accountability to find freedom in decision-making and the power of choice in shaping one's path.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:59 - Understanding Burnout and Its Causes
• 05:55 - Self-Diagnosis vs. Honest Reflection
• 09:02 - The Role of Autonomy and Control
• 12:07 - Finding Freedom in Structure
• 14:59 - The Power of Choice

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy discusses the HBO show 'The Rehearsal' and its parallels to power dynamics in finance and aviation. The conversation explores themes of communication, vulnerability, authority, and the importance of diversity in decision-making environments. Through the lens of the show, Joy highlights how rehearsing new scripts and norms can lead to better outcomes in high-stakes situations.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:48 - Aviation Safety and Communication Dynamics
• 05:18 - Power Dynamics in Cockpits and Finance
• 10:28 - The Role of Vulnerability in Decision Making
• 18:11 - Diversity and Communication in High-Stakes Environments
• 22:38 - Rehearsing New Norms and Scripts in Leadership

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts

In this episode, Joy engages in a rich conversation with Joyce-Ann Wainaina, founder of Chui Ventures. They explore their personal journeys, the impact of their backgrounds, and the role of finance in transformative systems change.

The discussion delves into the importance of confidence, the challenges of navigating career transitions, and the need for gender equity in investment. They emphasize the significance of supporting African founders and the power of community in fostering innovation and change.

Episode Highlights

• 00:27 - Introduction
• 02:43 - Personal Journeys and Shared Experiences
• 07:01 - The Role of Religion in Shaping Identity
• 13:43 - Career Transitions: From Teaching to Finance
• 22:21 - The Importance of Learning to Learn
• 32:07 - Investing in African Founders
• 42:00 - Grounded Leadership and Authenticity

Relevant Links

• Criterion Institute website and LinkedIn
• Joy’s LinkedIn
• Joyce-Ann's LinkedIn

Part of the ImpactAlpha Podcast Network

https://impactalpha.com/podcasts