The Charity Changemakers Podcast

The Charity Changemakers Podcast is back for Series 2, and in this opening episode, host Adam Stacey sits down with Ed Bracher, the Chief Executive of Dogs for Good, to explore hisincredible 35-year journey in the charity sector. From his early days working with international volunteering organisations to leading one of the UK's most impactful assistance dog charities, Ed shares valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and making a tangible difference in people's lives.What you'll tearn in this episode:·       Ed's career journey and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership approach.·       The importance of optimism and resilience when working in the charity sector.·       How coaching and mentoring play a vital role in the development of leaders and teams.·       The profound impact of assistance dogs in supporting individuals with a range of challenges.·       The evolution of Dogs for Good and how the organisation continues to adapt and grow.·       Why focusing on people and the outcomes of charity work is just as important as the work itself.Key takeaways:Ed Bracher's experience in the charity sector spans decades, giving him a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to lead with purpose. Throughout this conversation, he emphasises the value of staying positive even in challenging times, the power of coaching to strengthen leadership, and how Dogs for Good is changing lives through its unique approach to assistance dog training. More than just working with animals, the organisation prioritises outcomes for individuals and communities, ensuring long-term impact and support.About our guest:Ed Bracher has dedicated his career to the non-profit world, leading various organisations with a passion for driving positive change. As Chief Executive of Dogs for Good, he oversees a charity that not only trains and provides assistance dogs but also educates and empowers people to build stronger relationships with their canine companions. His leadership philosophy revolves around people-centric approaches, ensuring that both staff and beneficiaries receive the best possible support.Why you should listen:If you work in the charity sector, are passionate about making a difference, or are curious about the role of assistance dogs in transforming lives, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Ed's leadership experience and thoughtful reflections offer inspiration for anyone looking to grow in their career, lead with confidence, and create meaningful change.Get involved:·       Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast on YouTube,Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more interviews with leaders who are making an impact in the nonprofit world.·       Learn more about Dogs for Good at www.dogsforgood.org·       Connect with Adam Stacey on LinkedInfor more discussions on charity leadership and recruitment.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ed Bracher and Dogs for Good06:38 Ed's Journey in the Charity Sector17:47 Leadership and Longevity in Nonprofits21:13 The Role of Optimism and Resilience in Charity Work27:31 Resilience in Nonprofit Leadership33:41 Transitioning Between Charities41:12 Strategic Growth and Change Management44:48 The Impact of Assistance Dogs51:48 Career Advice and Reflections54:10 Series 2 - Outro.mp4The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify,Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this special, shortened finale, The Charity Changemakers Podcast host Adam Stacey reflects on an incredible first series, bringing together the insights and learnings from our 14 inspiring guests from across the charity sector. Adam revisits the most impactful moments, from mentorship and fundraising challenges to innovative strategies forworkforce development. Adam also expresses his heartfelt gratitude to all guests, listeners, and supporters for making this journey so rewarding. As a thank-you, he's launching a FREE recruitment checklist designed to help charities streamline their hiring processes. Get your copy are https://bit.ly/FreeRecruitmentChecklist Although this is the final episode of Series 1, it's far from the end. We want your feedback on the first series please - https://bit.ly/ChangemakersFeedback Stay tuned for Series 2, where we'll dive even deeper into the challenges and opportunities facing the charity world, meeting inspiring Changemakers along the way! Key highlights: Series reflections: Adam discusses the powerful insights shared by the guests, focusing on mentorship, overcoming funding struggles, and the sector's creative problem-solving. Thank you! Heartfelt thanks to everyone who's been a part of this journey – from the amazing guests to the supportive listeners. FREE Recruitment Checklist: To wrap up Series 1, we're launching a free tool to help charities navigate their recruitment challenges. https://bit.ly/FreeRecruitmentChecklist Series 2 preview: Get excited for what's to come in Series 2 later this year – more insights, more strategies, and more voices from the charity sector Thank you for being a changemaker with us! We look forward to reconnecting in this space later this year. The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this captivating podcast episode, Chris Bailey, CEO of the Sheffield United Foundation, takes us on a journey through his 13 years in the charity and the remarkable growth of the foundation. With candid insights, Chris shares his belief in the power of authenticity, values alignment, and investing in the development of his team. He reveals that these principles have been pivotal in shaping the foundation's success and fostering a culture of collaboration and impact. Chris also delves into the complexities of leading a charity associated with a high-profile football club. He acknowledges that the Sheffield United brand can be both a blessing and a curse in recruitment. While it attracts passionate individuals who connect with the club's values, it can also present challenges in finding the right fit for certain roles. Navigating these dynamics requires careful consideration and an understanding of the target audience. At its core, the Sheffield United Community Foundation is committed to making a real difference in the lives of individuals across the community. Through a diverse range of programmes focused on education, employability, health and wellbeing, accessibility and inclusion, and sport and physical activity, the foundation tackles some of the most pressing social issues. Chris emphasises the importance of partnerships in achieving these goals, working hand-in-hand with organisations across different sectors to deliver initiatives that have a lasting impact. The foundation's strong ties with local authorities, schools, colleges, and community organisations are testament to its dedication to collaboration and community engagement. Chris paints a picture of a thriving network of support, where the foundation and its partners work together to address the specific needs of the community. This collaborative approach ensures that programmes are tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by individuals in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. Throughout the conversation, Chris' passion for the foundation's work shines through. He speaks with pride about the positive relationship between the foundation and the football club, highlighting the invaluable support the club provides. He also sheds light on the foundation's funding model, which includes a combination of support from the Premier League Charitable Fund, the English Football League, grants, contracts, and service agreements. This multi-faceted approach allows the foundation to secure the necessary resources to sustain and expand its vital programmes. Chris' leadership, coupled with the dedication of his team and the support of partners, has created a powerful force for good in the community. Through their unwavering commitment to social impact, they are empowering individuals, building stronger communities, and creating a brighter future for all. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 03:00 The Importance of Sports and Friendship for Mental Health 04:00 Chris Bailey's Journey in the Charity Sector 09:26 Investing in Team Development and Growth Opportunities 14:41 The Growth and Programs of the Sheffield United Foundation 20:13 Recruitment Challenges and the Power of the Sheffield United Brand 22:10 The Importance of Partnerships in Delivering Impactful Programs 23:36 The Impact of Sheffield United on the Community 24:27 Delivering Programs with a Deep Impact 29:03 The Positive Relationship Between the Foundation and the Football Club 35:49 Building Strong Partnerships for Community Development 42:06 A Diverse Funding Model for Sustainability The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this insightful episode, Laura, the CEO of Marwell Wildlife, takes us through her fascinating career journey, transitioning from a commercial retail background to the charity sector. Laura's story is a powerful reminder of how transferable skills can be effectively applied across different industries, demonstrating that experience in one field can bring unique value to another. Laura delves into her motivation for making the switch, driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful difference. She highlights the rewarding nature of working in the charity sector, where the focus is not just on profits but on creating positive change. As CEO of Marwell Wildlife, Laura oversees a diverse range of work that extends far beyond the walls of the zoo. She discusses Marwell's ambitious conservation projects, which include initiatives within the UK as well as in-situ conservation efforts in North Africa and Bhutan. These projects underscore the organisation's commitment to global wildlife preservation and the critical role charities play in protecting endangered species and ecosystems. In addition to conservation, Laura touches on the crucial business aspects of running a charity, particularly the importance of diversifying income streams. She stresses the need for financial sustainability, highlighting how balancing the books is essential to ensure that the charity can continue its vital work. Laura also offers valuable advice for those interested in the charity sector, advocating for early involvement in volunteering and trustee roles. These experiences, she explains, provide invaluable insights into governance and can pave the way for a fulfilling career in the sector. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about conservation, interested in the charity sector, or seeking inspiration from a leader who has successfully navigated a significant career transition. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 03:12 Laura's Career Journey and Transition to the Charity Sector 07:24 Involvement in the City of Culture Bid and Trustee Role 13:30 Transition from Commercial Retail to Marwell Wildlife 19:09 The Value of Transferable Skills in the Charity Sector 23:25 Transition into the Role of CEO at Marwell Wildlife 26:12 Conservation Work of Marwell Wildlife 31:42 Funding Conservation Projects and Balancing the Books 35:08 Supportive Networks and Learning from Others 40:19 Importance of Volunteering and Trustee Roles

In this episode of the Charity Changemakers Podcast, we are joined by Claire Walsh, Director of Income Generation and Marketing at Crohn's and Colitis UK. Claire takes us on a journey through her career in the charity sector, from her early days in Singapore to her current leadership role. She opens up about the significant impact mentors have had on her professional growth, and how continuous learning and seeking out experts have been instrumental in her success. Claire also reflects on the transition from hands-on fundraising to strategic leadership, highlighting the challenges and rewards that come with it. She emphasises the enduring importance of personal connections and storytelling in her work, even in an increasingly digital world. Additionally, Claire shares how Crohn's and Colitis UK navigated the transformative period of the COVID-19 pandemic and the exciting changes that lie ahead for the organisation. This episode offers valuable insights into the value of mentorship and continuous learning in career development, the challenges and rewards of transitioning from hands-on fundraising to strategic leadership, the importance of personal connections and storytelling in the charity sector, how Crohn's and Colitis UK is evolving and adapting to meet the needs of its community, and insights into Claire's leadership style and advice for aspiring senior leaders. Listen to the full episode to hear Claire's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into the charity sector. Visit the Crohn's & Colitis UK website - https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/- to learn more about their work, check the symptom checker or explore how you can get involved. Feel free to share this episode with anyone interested in the charity sector, leadership, or personal development. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 05:08 Entering the Charity Sector 09:06 The Role of Mentors and Training 13:10 Transitioning to Strategic Leadership 17:40 The Importance of Personal Interactions 19:47 Crohn's and Colitis UK: A Transformative Organisation 23:05 Managing a Remote Work Environment 25:03 Working Virtually and Managing Partnerships 26:33 Maintaining Connections in a Virtual Environment 27:39 Experiences in Singapore and Hong Kong 29:33 Fundraising Challenges in Different Cultural Contexts 38:08 Supportive and Transparent Leadership 43:41 Raising Awareness about Inflammatory Bowel Disease 46:36 Advice for Young Professionals The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, we embark on an inspiring journey with Paul Winspear, CEO of Weston Hospicecare. Paul's path, from a 25-year career in the oil and gas industry to leading a hospice, showcases the unexpected turns life can take. He candidly shares how a growing unease with the environmental impact of his former sector prompted him to seek a more fulfilling path, eventually leading him to the helm of Weston Hospicecare. Paul emphasises that the skills honed in the corporate world are indeed transferable to the charity sector. However, he dispels the notion that charity work is an "easy ride," highlighting the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with running a hospice. Balancing compassionate care with tough business decisions is a constant reality, demanding both empathy and strategic thinking. We delve into the remarkable successes and growth of Weston Hospicecare under Paul's leadership, from the transformation of their day services to the innovative expansion of their retail business with a superstore and drive-thru donation centre. Paul underscores the critical role of location and collaboration in the non-profit sector, showcasing how strategic choices can drive remarkable results. Whether you're contemplating a career shift, seeking inspiration for your own charity, or simply curious about the inner workings of a hospice, this episode offers a wealth of insights. Hear Paul's full story and discover how passion, resilience, and innovation can drive meaningful change in the charity sector. Tune in and be empowered! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 04:43 Transitioning from the Commercial Sector to the Charity Sector 09:02 The Journey into the Charity Sector 13:12 First Days, Weeks, and Months in the Charity Sector 22:48 Transitioning to the Nonprofit Sector 23:14 Debunking the Myth of Charity Work 24:07 Challenges and Responsibilities of Running a Hospice 26:54 Making a Direct Connection through Work 28:52 Transferable Skills from the Corporate Sector 29:17 Successes and Growth at Weston Hospicecare 31:44 Transformation of the Retail Business 34:28 The Importance of Location in Charity Retail 37:20 Collaboration within the Nonprofit Sector 39:35 Advice for Career Development 45:12 The Privilege of Leading a Hospice The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

Ever wondered how to blend your passion for social impact with the flexibility of freelance life? Join us as we delve deeper into the extraordinary career path of Helen Denny, the dynamic Chief Executive of The Melting Pot. Helen's story is one of evolution and empowerment, beginning with her early days as a volunteer and culminating in her bold leap into entrepreneurship with her own business championing flexible work. The book Helen refers to in the Pod is ‘The Go-Giver' by Bob Burg & John David Mann. Discover the pivotal moments that led her to take the helm at The Melting Pot, a centre for social innovation, and how she's fearlessly driving social change through innovative practices like the four-day workweek. Gain valuable insights on leadership, maintaining work-life balance, and scaling social impact in the ever-evolving charity sector. Helen's candid advice on setting boundaries and prioritising self-care will resonate with anyone striving to make a meaningful difference in the world without burning out. Whether you're a seasoned charity professional or just starting your journey, Helen's story is sure to ignite your passion and inspire you to forge your own path to success. Tune in and be empowered! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 03:47 Journey into the Charity Sector 11:14 Transition to Freelance Work 24:30 The Shift to Flexible and Blended Working 25:24 Innovative Ways of Working: The Four-Day Workweek 39:12 Shifting Focus: From Co-working Space to Centre for Social Innovation 43:47 Effective Leadership: Empowering and Trusting Team Members 49:05 Setting Boundaries and Prioritising Self-CareThe Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode we delve into the extraordinary career journey of Richard Corbett, Chief Executive of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. From the adrenaline-fueled world of the military to the heart wrenching realities of international aid, Richard's path is a testament to resilience and dedication. We explore his experiences on the frontlines of humanitarian crises in Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, where he honed his leadership skills in high-pressure environments. Richard shares invaluable insights into the challenges of building trust in war-torn communities and the power of teamwork in overcoming adversity. As we transition to his role at Oxfam, we uncover the lessons learned from working in an organisation at a time of crisis. Richard provides insight to its impact on the charity sector and his approach to leadership. Finally, we shift focus to Richard's current role leading the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of operating a life-saving service, the importance of community support, and the strategies employed to ensure the charity's continued success. We delve into discussing the importance of building strong, long-term relationships with supporters and how this is the cornerstone of sustainable fundraising. It involves more than just securing donations; it's about fostering a genuine connection based on shared values and a mutual commitment to the cause. With a wealth of experience and a passion for making a difference, Richard offers invaluable advice to aspiring leaders, emphasising the significance of trust, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of positive impact.  Crucially, Richard underscores the importance of cultivating long-term relationships with supporters, highlighting the essential role they play in the success of any charity. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Getting to Know Richard Corbett 06:17 Journey from the Military to the Charity Sector 10:56 Working in Afghanistan and Other Challenging Environments 29:44 Career progression and managing stakeholders 38:30 The power of engagement in fundraising 50:45 Collaboration and shared learning among Air Ambulances 53:30 Support and learning for chief executives 57:31 Trusting your skills and embracing new opportunities The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode, we embark on an inspiring journey with Don Esson, the dynamic Director of Partnerships and Development at Spurgeons UK. Having made a significant transition from the fast-paced commercial world to the profoundly rewarding realm of youth work and international development, Don shares his unique perspective on leadership, team building, and creating lasting social impact. Don leadership journey is a testament to the power of combining formal qualifications, self-learning, and mentorship. He's levelled up his leadership game by blending an MBA with hands-on experience and insights from others. His story shows that leadership is a lifelong pursuit, requiring a diverse learning approach. Discover how Don has successfully navigated the complexities of building high-performing teams across diverse sectors. Gain valuable insights into fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Through candid conversation, Don unveils practical strategies for effective leadership development, including navigating the challenges and opportunities of remote team management. As a key driver of fundraising initiatives, Don offers invaluable expertise on innovative approaches to securing sustainable funding. Learn how Spurgeons UK has adapted to the evolving philanthropic landscape while maintaining a steadfast commitment to its mission. Beyond the practical advice, this episode delves into the broader challenges and opportunities facing the charity sector. Don shares his thoughts on the importance of collaboration, impact measurement, and building strong partnerships to address complex social issues. Whether you're a seasoned non-profit professional, aspiring leader, or simply passionate about making a difference, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in for a captivating conversation that explores the power of human connection, the importance of purpose-driven work, and the potential for positive change. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 05:05 Don's Route into the Charity Sector 11:17 Transitioning from Corporate to Youth Work 14:59 The Impact of Visiting Ethiopia 17:00 Joining Compassion and Role Overview 25:50 Holistic Employee Support in the Charity Sector 26:47 Rigorous Recruitment and Commitment to Team 27:10 Taking the Initiative: Investing in Personal Development 30:21 Building a Positive Work Culture and Shared Ownership 34:04 Being Data-Informed but Relationship-Led in Fundraising 47:04 The Power of Focusing on the 'One' 49:40 Be More, Do Less: Creating Margin and Taking Care of Yourself The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode of the Charity Changemakers podcast, we are joined by Donna-Louise Cobban, the Chief Executive of Emmaus Village Carlton. Donna-Louise shares her inspiring career journey, starting from her foundations in retail and transitioning into the charity sector, eventually working her way up to Chief Executive positions. The episode begins with Donna-Louise discussing her early career in retail, where she excelled in leadership roles and gained valuable experience. She shares how she made the transition into the charity sector, highlighting the importance of peer support, training, and self-belief in her journey. Donna-Louise also talks about her personal interests, including her love for travel, reading, and training in the gym. She shares her experiences with various challenges and competitions, showcasing her dedication to personal growth and resilience. The conversation delves into Donna-Louise's time at the Alzheimer's Society, where she made significant contributions and won awards for her work in dementia support services. She also discusses her role at a homeless charity, where she further honed her leadership skills and passion for making a difference. As Donna-Louise reflects on her recent role as CEO of Beyond Detention, she shares the challenges and successes of leading a small organisation. She emphasises the importance of support networks, including her chair of trustees, coach, and peer group of charity CEOs, in navigating the complexities of the role. The episode concludes with Donna-Louise's transition to Emmaus Village Carlton, where she discusses her first six months as CEO. She highlights the whirlwind of decision-making and projects she has been involved in, showcasing her resilience and dedication to empowering her team and making a positive impact in the charity sector. Overall, Donna-Louise's journey exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and support in driving meaningful change within the charity sector. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring changemakers and highlights the importance of collaboration and empowerment in creating lasting impact. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Appreciation 02:15 Getting to Know the Guest: Quickfire Questions 08:13 Hobbies and Personal Challenges: Training in the Gym 11:47 Transition from Retail to the Charity Sector 21:10 Volunteering and First Opportunity in the Charity Sector 25:20 Transferable Skills and Recognition in the Charity Sector 31:28 Passion for the Cause and Mission-Driven Organisations 32:46 The Value of Volunteering 36:37 The Journey to Becoming a Charity CEO 40:46 Challenges and Rewards of Being a Charity CEO 49:05 Empowering and Collaborating with Other Charity CEOs 54:42 Believe in Yourself: The Key to Success in the Charity Sector 57:54 Charity Changemakers - Outro The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

This week Adam is joined by Ben Hilton, the CEO of ReachOut. ReachOut is a national mentoring and education charity, rooted in local communities and working in under-resourced areas.  The charity support young people to grow in character and confidence, sparking change in themselves and society. Ben shares his journey into the charity sector, starting with a background in recruitment and transitioning into volunteering and mentoring roles. He then worked in business in the community, focusing on supporting vulnerable individuals in finding employment. Ben later joined Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, delivering community-led programs for young people and working his way up to CEO. Recently Ben became the Chief Executive of ReachOut, an organisation that provides long-term support to young people facing disadvantage. ReachOut is an organisation that focuses on mentoring and supporting young people in their personal and academic development. They believe that education should go beyond academic success and also nurture social and emotional skills. Ben emphasises the importance of open communication, transparency, and collaboration within an organisation. Ben shares about how ReachOut is constantly innovating and testing new ideas to improve their programs and reach more young people. In this episode, we dive into the powerful combination of empowerment and continuous improvement. We'll explore how fostering a culture where employees feel supported and encouraged to share ideas can lead to positive change and growth within an organisation. Ben shares insights on how to unlock a team's potential and create an environment where innovation thrives. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 04:18 Transitioning from Recruitment to the Charity Sector 08:05 Volunteering and Mentoring as Pathways to the Charity Sector 13:09 Supporting Vulnerable Populations in Finding Employment 15:24 Working with World-Class Athletes to Empower Young People 25:54 Providing Long-Term Support to Young People in Need 27:50 The Importance of Holistic Education 30:12 The Power of Mentoring 37:41 Building a Culture of Open Communication 45:42 Innovation and Testing in the Non-profit Sector 53:20 The Value of Listening and Learning The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

This episode of the Charity Changemakers podcast takes you on an inspiring journey with Paul Furbey, Director of Income Generation at St. Barnabas Hospice. Buckle up as we'll dive deep into Paul's path in the charity world, his experiences in India and his time making a difference at Christian Aid. He'll reveal some of the things that have have fuelled his growth within the sector: coaching, training and development! We'll learn how coaching helped him gain career clarity and confidence, and the magic of having a neutral space to reflect on work dynamics. Paul then shares about his current role at St. Barnabas Hospice in Lincolnshire, sharing the joys and challenges that come with working in the inspiring charity sector. He'll challenge your perspective on failure, highlighting it as a stepping stone to learning and continuous improvement. Get ready to hear about exciting upcoming projects and the innovative, sustainable culture thriving at the hospice. Paul's story is an energising reminder to embrace coaching, seize opportunities, and embark on your own path to becoming a charity changemaker! Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Childhood Influences and Passion for Charity Work 05:04 Transition from Solo Fundraising to Team Management 15:18 Investing in People: The Impact of Coaching and Support 24:24 Transition to Director of Income Generation 32:10 Innovative Income Generation Strategies in the Charity Sector 43:44 Embracing Opportunities in the Charity Sector The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

Ever wondered how the grit and teamwork of sports can translate into success in the real world? In this episode, we delve into the inspiring world of Leadership Through Sport and Business (LTSB) with CEO Rob Burton. Rob's journey takes us from the sidelines of coaching to the helm of a charity creating positive change for disadvantaged young people. He'll share how LTSB utilises the power of sports to provide job training, mentorship, and crucial placements with major companies. Rob shares his experiences in the charity sector, including working with marginalised communities and managing through the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the importance of sport in developing life skills and building relationships. Get ready to be motivated by: Rob's personal story - how did a passion for sports evolve into a mission to empower young people? Leading through crisis - discover the unique challenges and rewards of managing a team in the non-profit sector, especially during turbulent times. The magic of mentorship - learn how LTSB uses sports as a platform to build life skills like communication, perserverance, and teamwork The future of LTSB - Rob unveils his vision for the charity's growth, including expansion plans and exciting new sports programs This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of sports and wants to learn how to create positive social change. Tune in and get inspired! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quick Fire Questions 05:29 Career Journey: From Sports to the Charity Sector 07:33 The Power of Sport in Teaching Life Skills 11:36 Managing a Local Charity During a Global Crisis 24:49 Leading a Team Through Uncertain Circumstances 31:11 Creating Major Career Opportunities for Young People 34:42 The Power of Partnership Working 36:32 Fostering an Open and Transparent CultureThe Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode of the Charity Changemakers podcast, Adam Stacey interviews Beth Crackles, the Chief Executive of Sheffield Hospitals Charity. Beth shares her journey from growing up in an equestrian center to becoming a leader in the charity sector. Key themes from the conversation include the importance of learning from others, increasing knowledge through qualifications and training, and instilling a positive working culture within an organisation. Beth reflects on the impactful staff survey she implemented before even starting her current role. Listen in as she reveals how the survey's insights empowered her to champion cultural changes that boosted employee morale and, in turn, led to demonstrably improved results for the organisation. Beth also emphasises the significance of networking and having a support system in the sector. Overall, the conversation highlights the determination, hard work, and passion required to succeed in the charity sector. Beth reflects different aspects of her leadership style, including the importance of silliness and informality. She shares her experience of instilling a new culture within the organisation, including improving relationships and creating a shared vision. Beth also talks about the challenges and opportunities she faced in her role, such as integrating a separate charity and making strategic funding decisions. She emphasises the importance of data-driven decision-making and being true to oneself. The staff survey results show positive changes in staff satisfaction and trust in her leadership. This is an episode not to be missed! Takeaways: Learning from others and increasing knowledge through qualifications and training Instilling a positive working culture within an organisation is crucial for success Networking and having a support system are valuable in the charity sector Determination, hard work, and passion are essential qualities for success in the sector Improving relationships and creating a shared vision are essential for cultural change Data-driven decision-making and transparency are important for making strategic funding decisions Staff surveys can provide valuable insights and help track progress Being true to oneself and holding firm in decisions

In this week's episode, I was joined by Tim Lockwood, CEO of Headway Southampton and West Wessex - a charity that that offers support, advice and rehabilitation services to adults with an acquired brain injury from across Southampton City, New Forest, Winchester, Romsey & Eastleigh districts, parts of Fareham borough and recently supporting Salisbury and South East Wiltshire. Discover the incredible journey of Tim Lockwood in our latest podcast episode! From his beginnings in retail, transitioning to police work, then moving into church ministry, and landing in the charity sector, Tim's career path is anything but ordinary. He shares the pivotal moments from each stage of his career and how they have collectively shaped his unique leadership style. Tune in to hear Tim's passionate reasons for joining Headway Southampton and West Wessex, and how the pandemic spurred a transformation within the organisation. Learn about the innovative digital services they've developed, and the heartwarming initiatives like meet and greet sites and walk and talk events designed to build friendships and a sense of purpose among their service users. Discover how Headway has grown its team, engaged an active board of trustees, and involved service users in decision-making processes. Tim also highlights their remarkable success in securing funding, enhancing staff retention, and expanding their reach through strategic mergers and acquisitions. You'll hear about their efforts to diversify income streams and build financial stability, ensuring they can continue their vital work. As CEO, Tim Lockwood shares valuable insights on learning from mistakes and enjoying the journey, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, community building, and nonprofit success. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation! ------------------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions 04:40 Tim Lockwood's Career Journey 09:36 Transition to Fundraising Role at Pelican Cancer Foundation 14:39 Becoming CEO of Headway Southampton and West Wessex 17:56 Joining Headway Southampton and the Impact of the Pandemic 21:58 Empowering Service Users and Creating Purpose 23:20 Building a Strong Team and Involving Trustees 24:48 Diversifying Income Streams and Building Reserves 31:16 Expanding Reach through Mergers and Acquisitions 39:28 Learning from Mistakes and Enjoying the Journey

In this week's episode, I was joined by Catherine McLeod, CEO of Dingley's Promise - a charity that support children in the early years with special educational needs and disabilities to achieve their full potential. Have you ever dreamed of transforming your local charity into a national force for good? In this episode of the Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey sits down with Catherine McLeod, CEO of Dingley's Promise. Catherine shares her remarkable story, from founding a charity in Asia to leading Dingley's Promise on a mission to revolutionise early years support for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).   Catherine discusses the challenges she faced in the early days at Dingley's Promise and the mindset change needed to focus on inclusion. Catherine also talks about the importance of bringing people along on the journey of change and the growth and impact of Dingley's Promise over the years. Catherine reflects on the importance of embracing change and involving stakeholders in decision-making. She discusses how Dingley's Promise adapted during the pandemic, expanding their training programs and opening new centres. The organisation's reputation as experts in early years SEND has led to increased support and funding. Catherine emphasises the need to maintain the organisation's culture and values as they continue to grow. She also highlights the importance of having a supportive senior leadership team and a business coach for guidance and perspective. In this episode Catherine talks about how she has been able to grow Dingley's Promise from a small local charity, to one that is now influencing national policy and expanding its services across the country. If you would like to know more about how she executes on a daily basis then feel free to reach out to her directly on LinkedIn! Chapters 00:00 Journey into the Charity Sector 15:14 Challenges of Transitioning Back to the UK 26:51 Involving the Team in Strategy Development 28:10 The Impact of the Pandemic on Organisational Adaptation 32:09 Organisational Growth and Board Relationships 36:57 The Role of Peer Support and Coaching in Leadership 49:09 Career Advice: The Value of Listening and Openness