S1 EP2 Shane Nichols | Good Return and Investing with Impact | Microfinance & Macro Impact

We speak to Shane Nichols, the CEO of Good Return. You will learn about the power of microfinance loans in making a macro impact and eradicating poverty [14:00]. Shane also discusses a vision for an inclusive financial system  [22:00] and how to invest with the purpose of making an impact [34:00].

Meet Shane Nichols

Good Return is a non-profit which works to break the cycle of poverty through access to responsible finance. Shane's experience in microfinance and enterprise development spans two decades, having worked with dozens of financial service providers and social enterprises across the Asia Pacific region. Prior to joining Good Return, Shane worked on rural and economic development programs in China and Mongolia for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He also serves as Non-Executive Director of the Australian Council for International Development, and Palmera Projects.

Quick Links

• Shane Nichols: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-nichols-b3b53315/
• Good Return: www.goodreturn.org
• Global Impact Investing Network: https://thegiin.org/
• Financial Inclusion for Development Gateway: https://www.findevgateway.org/

Chapters

[4:00] Career journey in government, non-profit and microfinance sector

[9:00] Eye-opening experience working in Asia

[14:00] Becoming the CEO of Good Return

[17:00] What is microfinance?

[22:00] Vision for an inclusive financial system

[28:00] The Good Return Impact Investment Fund

[34:00] What is impact investing?

[40:00] Book recommendation "Impact"

[41:00] Advice to younger self

[42:00] Being a responsible Board Member