Like many in today’s social media dictionary, the term “podcast” can be a confusing, even intimidating word. Many ask, what is a podcast? I know what you think, it sounds like something an alien space ship might do, but believe me, its not. To clear the air, a podcast is Web 2.0’s alternative to radio, just as YouTube acts as an alternative to TV or movies. And like all Web 2.0 applications, podcasts are democratizing media, giving broadcasting power to the people, or in our case, to non-profits everywhere.

A couple of months ago, we reported that Paul Buchheit, co-founder of FriendFeed and, before that, the engineer behind Google Mail, had inspired a discussion around the best use of $20k for the common good. Looks like that conversation has lead to something more concrete. Paul calls it collaborative charity.

"The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize." This quote from Olympia Dukakis' character in the movie Steel Magnolias motivates me every time I try to assemble the same old clothes into a fresh look. But, what if you turn accesorizing into something more than just keeping your closet au courant, such as improving educational opportunities for children in India? That would really bring new meaning to this quote.

News from the Case Foundation and what people are talking about this week in the world of giving, tech and everything in between.

One of the most common questions I hear from people I meet who know about our work at the Case Foundation is, "why did you and Steve create the Foundation, and why have you chosen to make this your life's work?" The answer I quickly offer is that we have a faith and a belief that to whom much is given, much is expected. But it turns out that is only the quick, polite answer I use in passing. And it is only part of the story. The real answer is much deeper and layered and goes to the heart of who and what inspired us and modeled a life of giving back.

It seems we’ve been at the service crossroads many times over. Whether it’s a national tragedy like September 11, a natural disaster such as Hurricane Katrina or the less defined but widespread devastation the economy is currently having on our nation – as a country, we find a way to rally.