Episode 272: Melanie Lundquist

5 Questions With Dan Schawbel

My guest today is philanthropist, Melanie Lundquist. Melanie is one of California’s most significant philanthropists and is a Giving Pledge signatory. Melanie and her husband Richard have pledged more than $400 million over the last decade to support various causes. We talk about how she became a philanthropist and more during this episode.

The 5 questions I ask in this episode:

1. What originally inspired you to become a philanthropist and why do you continue to be one?
2. Over the past few years, you donated to both the News Literacy Project and McPherson College, as well as joined the board of AltaSea. What goes into your decision about what industries, institutions, and causes you invest in and your involvement?
3. What are some of your insights on the state of philanthropy today and how do economic factors like inflation impact charitable giving as a whole?
4. You’ve made a pledge of $400 million with your husband to support various causes. How do you work in partnership with Richard to turn the pledge into actionable results?
5. What is your best piece of career advice?

Video interview: