Listen to the Negative Space Podcast
In a moment where collective progress faces unprecedented obstacles, The Negative Space from The Anthem Awards colors in the unseen challenges and triumphs shaping the future of the impact industry. Hosted by Anthem General Manager Patricia McLoughlin, this seven-part series digs into the motivations, grit and innovations fuelling top leaders’ advocacy in 2025.

Nearly a decade after the landmark case legalizing gay marriage—the rights of LGBTQIA+ communities nationwide are under attack. With government-led erasure and rising anti-Queer legislation on the rise, Jim Obergefell joins us to reflect on his historic Supreme Court case, unpack the right-wing backlash and pull lessons from his playbook for resistance. Read More
In a post-Roe reality, the fight for reproductive freedom hasn’t stopped—it just got a new look. With abortion access under attack, digital censorship silencing providers, and legal gray zones complicating care, the abortion pill has become a frontline tool for autonomy. Francine Coeytaux, one of the original founders of Plan C, joins us to unpack the realities of self-managed care and hidden barriers threatening the future of reproductive healthcare. Read More
When the earth quakes or sociopolitical issues arise, World Central Kitchen is on the frontlines—often even before journalists. Powered by a global supply chain of advocates and (yes) chefs, it’s been a pioneering force in humanitarian aid since 2010. From serving up life-saving meals in crisis zones to navigating aid in regions like Gaza, we sat down with Linda Roth, CCO of WCK, to explore the complexities of delivering vital relief where it’s needed most. Read More
The Internet’s tides are changing—social media is not what it used to be back in 2008. As the digital world shifts, social media platforms are now more than just virtual spaces, but battlegrounds for privacy and autonomy. Tracy Chou, founder of Block Party, is on a mission to take the power back from corporate algorithms and give it to users. We spoke with Chou to lay bare the chaotic evolution of online safety, the role AI plays in reshaping the digital world and how we can build a more responsible, human-first internet. Read More
From banned books to restricted speech in schools, censorship is surging—with stories that live outside the mainstream being cast to the margins. With Project 2025 and the new administration pushing for deep-rooted information control, the danger isn’t just in banned books—it’s in the ideas they hold. Nick Higgins of Brooklyn Public Library broke down how this legacy institution is fighting back, protecting free access to knowledge, and defending the fundamental right to think critically. Read More
In a country reeling from mass shootings—with only thoughts and prayers offered—Moms Demand Action is on the frontlines of the fight for gun safety. With a powerful network of over 400 chapters nationwide, they’re challenging the very systems that perpetuate gun violence at the root. We spoke with Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action, to spotlight their work in tackling America’s gun crisis, the push for school safety and the fight to protect hard-won progress, despite the shift in the new administration's stance. Read More
Rising sea levels, eroding coastlines and worsening storms threaten communities worldwide, while anti-climate agendas stall critical action. The Surfrider Foundation has spent decades at the intersection of grassroots activism and policy change, fighting to protect our oceans and encourage systemic action. In the face of growing anti-climate action, we’re joined with Surfrider CEO, Chad Nelsen, as we dive into the biggest environmental battles ahead, the power of community-led action and what it will take to hold brands and policymakers accountable. Read More