Tess Talks23 Jun 2025

Turning Pain Into Purpose; Introducing the JW Foundation, A New Era of Philanthropy

Today’s episode is a powerful and necessary conversation about childhood trauma, resilience, and reimagining how we give back.

Jonathan Webber is the founder of the JW Foundation, a new kind of philanthropic model built on lived experience, radical transparency, and real impact. From surviving an abusive childhood to launching a multimillion-dollar business while living on $50 a week, Jonathan’s journey is anything but conventional.

This is a conversation about resilience, purpose, and creating the kind of change that truly matters. We unpack his story and mission, why he started the foundation, how he’s transforming the charity space, and the importance of giving survivors new avenues to speak up and heal. It’s also a reminder that real change often begins with those who’ve lived through the very challenges they’re now working to solve.

In this episode:

Why Jonathan lived on $50 a week and slept in his office for 3 years to launch his business
His childhood experience of abuse and surviving over 30 broken bones
The importance of speaking up about trauma and how silence can shape our identity
Using pain as fuel for purpose and helping others do the same
LifeChanger programs: early intervention and education for young people
Jonathan’s take on transparency in the charity sector
The ToyBox initiative and plans to reimagine giving
His next event at the NGV called Starry Night
His vision for future events a blend of storytelling, performance, and social impact

Mentioned

Jonathan’s Instagram: @jw.johnny

Follow JW foundation: @thejwfoundation

Buy tickets to Starry Night at NGV on September 13th, 2025: here

Donate to Starry Night: here

Follow me on Instagram: @tess.shanahan & @tesstalksofficial

Follow me on TikTok: @tessshanahan

Follow me on YouTube: TessShanahan

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