The Shift from Giving to Empowering

The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I break down the difference between toxic charity and transformational giving. It’s not just about helping; it’s about how we help. I share a five-part framework that focuses on clarity, collaboration, contribution, capacity building, and connection. I also talk about why giving without understanding can hurt more than it helps, how we unintentionally strip people of their dignity, and why true impact starts with empowering others to stand on their own. From asking for help to creating sustainable systems, this conversation is about moving past emotional rewards and toward measurable, long-term outcomes that actually matter.