Christian Capitalist Podcast
With Rich Sanders
Living Generously: Vanessa Russell on Catholic Charities, the Poor, and the Power of Purpose
In this inspiring episode, host Rich Sanders welcomes Vanessa Russell, CEO of Catholic Charities Atlanta and former corporate executive, for a wide-ranging conversation about service, faith, and what it means to truly love your neighbor. Vanessa shares the story of her unexpected transition from corporate life to nonprofit leadership and how the words of Pope Francis, her late father, and a lifetime of military family experience shaped her mission to serve.
From helping veterans navigate the VA to transforming financial literacy for families, Catholic Charities Atlanta works to lift people into lives of dignity and self-sufficiency. Vanessa shares real stories, hard-won lessons, and a moving reminder: “Charity that leaves the poor as they are is not sufficient.” This is a must-listen for anyone called to align their business, faith, and generosity.
In This Episode:
• 02:30 Vatican Transitions & Pope Francis’ Legacy
• 09:45 The Call to Transform, Not Just Sustain
• 14:30 A Story of Dignity: Veteran Outreach in Action
• 19:30 From Uniform to Uncertainty
• 26:15 From the Corporate World to Catholic Charities
• 33:00 Seeing the Human Behind the Struggle
• 38:15 Financial Education: The Secret Sauce of Self-Sufficiency
• 44:00 Volunteers, Donors & Living Out the Faith
• 50:20 The Heart of Catholic Social Teaching
• 56:45 Work as Worship, Giving as Glory
Quotes:
· “Charity that leaves the poor as they are is not sufficient.” [10:10]
· “If I can help, I should serve—not for my glory, but for the glory of our Creator.” [31:30]
· “You may not be able to do everything, but if God puts someone in your path and you can help them—you should.” [57:40]
Relevant Links:
· Christian Capitalist Website
