Jeff Sandefer & fostering a culture of innovation Artwork

Givers, Doers, & Thinkers—A Podcast on Philanthropy and Civil Society

Givers, Doers, and Thinkers introduces listeners to the fascinating people and important ideas at the heart of American civil society. We speak with philanthropists, foundation leaders, reformers, social entrepreneurs, nonprofit executives, religious believers, historians, sociologists, philosophers, journalists, and anyone else who will help us understand contemporary civil society’s achievements and failures. We also sprinkle in practical advice for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers. This is the podcast for anyone interested in that vital space where philanthropy and civil society intersect.

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Givers, Doers, & Thinkers—A Podcast on Philanthropy and Civil Society

Jeff Sandefer & fostering a culture of innovation

July 03, 2024 • Jeremy Beer • Season 6 • Episode 4

This week on Givers, Doers, & Thinkers, Jeremy speaks with innovator and educator Jeff Sandefer about entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and education.

Jeff Sandefer founded Sandefer Offshore and Sandefer Capital Partners, both of which performed exceedingly well, the former generating $500 million in profits over a five-year period, before going on to found the Acton School of Business and Acton Academy. Jeff has been a longtime board member of National Review , the Texas Public Policy Foundation, the Philanthropy Roundtable, and the Harvard Business School. He belongs to the Mont Pelerin Society and is one of the youngest people ever elected to the Texas Business Hall of Fame.

What makes a great entrepreneur? Some say it is fearless risk-taking, but Jeff argues it is more a tolerance for ambiguity. Jeff offers insights on higher education reform, case-method teaching, and the importance of real-world experience. He also explains why he and his wife created Acton Academy and its unique learner-driven model of education, where children pursue their passions and personal genius. To close, Jeff shares his approach to philanthropy and the wisdom offered to him by Bernie Marcus.

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