In this episode of the Logan Fields Podcast, Logan Fields, founder of The App Guys and longtime tech entrepreneur, sits down with Craig Mayes, founder of Solstice for Change, to explore what it really takes to create meaningful impact in the world. From building orphanages and schools in India to tackling homelessness in New York City, Craig shares the experiences that reshaped his worldview and led him to dedicate his life to helping marginalized communities.

The conversation begins with Craig’s first life-altering trip to India nearly two decades ago. What started as a short visit quickly became a turning point that forced him to confront the realities of global poverty. Seeing the conditions firsthand, especially through the eyes of his young daughter, sparked a deep conviction that he could not simply return to normal life without doing something meaningful. That decision led to decades of nonprofit work that has helped establish schools, hospitals, and humanitarian initiatives serving vulnerable populations.

As the discussion unfolds, Logan and Craig dive deeper into the complexities of the nonprofit world. They unpack the fundamental difference between fundraising and value creation, discussing why nonprofit leaders must build trust, tell powerful stories, and create authentic relationships with donors. Craig explains that effective philanthropy is not simply about asking for money; it is about connecting people who want to make a difference with organizations that are capable of delivering measurable results.

A major focus of the episode is Craig’s newest venture, Solstice for Change, an organization designed to connect generous donors with high-impact nonprofits around the world. Drawing from his experience as a nonprofit CEO, Craig shares how Solstice vets leaders, evaluates programs, and ensures that donor funds are used responsibly. His goal is ambitious: help direct over $100 million toward transformative social initiatives in the next decade.

The conversation also tackles one of the most challenging social issues in America today: homelessness. Craig offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the systems attempting to address homelessness in New York City, including the massive budgets, complex policies, and structural barriers involved. Rather than offering simplistic solutions, he explains why homelessness often stems from multiple overlapping issues such as mental illness, addiction, and economic hardship.

Along the way, Logan and Craig explore the human side of social impact work. They discuss leadership, purpose, and the psychological factors that drive long-term change. Craig argues that many of the most effective programs focus not just on financial support, but on restoring hope, dignity, and personal agency for people who have lost everything.

Some of the key ideas explored in this episode include:

• How Craig Mayes’ journey to India reshaped his life and led to decades of humanitarian work

• The mission and model behind Solstice for Change and how it connects donors with high-impact organizations

• Why storytelling and human connection matter more than statistics in nonprofit fundraising

• The real causes of homelessness and why solving it requires different strategies for different people

• How innovative programs, mentorship, and leadership development can multiply social impact

Listeners will also hear fascinating stories from Craig’s travels across India and Nepal, including his firsthand experience observing organizations that rescue victims of human trafficking.

To learn more about Craig Mayes and his work, visit SolsticeForChange.org. If you enjoyed this episode of the Logan Fields Podcast, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about innovation and impact. You can also connect with Logan Fields at LoganFields.com or TheAppGuys.com for more conversations on technology, leadership, and building ideas that shape the future.