Starts at the Top Podcast (Starts at the Top)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Starts at the Top Podcast
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
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| 15 Feb 2024 | Episode 61 - Lorraine Candy - Award winning journalist, editor and author | 00:52:08 | |
Women in leadership special part 1: Lorraine Candy on midlife liberation
In this episode, we chat with Lorraine Candy, journalist and author of ‘What’s Wrong with Me? 101 Things Midlife Women Need to Know’.
Hello, did you miss us? We’re beginning Season 8 with a series of special episodes devoted to women in leadership. And we’re kicking off this season with one hell of a guest. We’re joined by the one and only Lorraine Candy, award-winning journalist, co-host of the phenomenally successful podcast Postcards from Midlife, and author. Her new book, ‘What’s Wrong With Me?: 101 Things Midlife Women Need to Know’ is out now in paperback. We wanted to find out what lessons Lorraine’s book has for the workplace, and what leaders need to do differently. This was an eye-opening conversation for us. We discuss the transformation - and liberation- that women experience in midlife, and how this chapter is a time of change that forces many of us to sit with loss and painful feelings. We talk about menopause and perimenopause, and we discuss the strength and freedom that lies on the other side of midlife turbulence. Lorraine shares invaluable advice on how leaders and employers can better support women through it all. Thank you to Lorraine for kicking off our new season with an inspiring, uplifting conversation. Photo of Lorraine Candy is credited to Neil Cooper
Notes Order What’s Wrong with Me? : 101 Things Midlife Women Need to Know by Lorraine Candy Listen to Postcards from Midlife We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people, and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodesstartsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 11 Jun 2021 | Episode 19 - Stuart Murphy, CEO of English National Opera | 00:52:57 | |
How a national institution took on digital disruption
When Stuart Murphy sent his team home as lockdown was announced in March 2020, he didn’t know what lay ahead. Yet he was determined to keep his colleagues connected at a time of crisis and to help ENO continue to do what makes it unique: creating groundbreaking work. Digital was vital to their survival. What follows is the story of how a national institution began to reinvent itself by embracing digital. From changing the way his organisation communicated, to building his own peer support network and responding to Black Lives Matter, Stuart tells us how ENO not only survived but thrived during a year of change and upheaval. Stuart has an inspiring story to tell which will resonate with anyone struggling to reconcile the tension between tradition and innovation in their organisation. Paul and Zoe also discuss the latest tech news, from whether banning out of hours email can help with wellbeing to how dating apps could help the COVID-19 vaccination drive.
Notes and links - The ENO The ENO’s reduced price ticket scheme for under 35s Should employees have the right to disconnect? https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-57314814 Can dating apps support the vaccine rollout? Article from Wired
Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 24 Nov 2022 | Episode 38 - Michael Wilkinson, Associate Director of Digital and Innovation, RNID | 00:53:39 | |
How RNID went fully remote and agile
We chat with Michael Wilkinson, Associate Director for Digital and Innovation at RNID
Going fully remote, and agile, is a big ask of any organisation. It inevitably brings risk as much as opportunity. What do charities need to do to make this a success? Back in 2020 RNID (or Action on Hearing Loss as it was then known) announced its plans to sell its office and go fully remote. Not long after that, it decided to rebrand. That’s a lot of change, but RNID has seized the opportunity to do things differently and embrace disruption. Michael Wilkinson, Associate Director for Digital and Innovation at RNID, tells us how their team has thrived through remote working, establishing new ways of working, removing core working hours, and taking an agile approach to leadership and strategy. Zoe and Paul discuss what’s happening at Twitter after staff walkouts and share their advice on how to plan for whatever the future holds for the platform.
Notes:
Read Michael’s blog about his blueprint for digital transformation
Read Roger Swannell’s blog about RNID’s project opportunity canvas
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com
And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!
Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas
Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
Full transcript of episode 38 with Michael Wilkinson (.txt file) - transcript also available through your podcast app.
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| 11 May 2022 | Episode 31 - Matt Stevenson-Dodd, MD of Trust Impact Ltd | 00:47:51 | |
What do charity CEOs do next?
Matt Stevenson-Dodd spent 9 years as CEO of Street League, the UK’s leading sport for employment charity. During his time in post, Street League grew rapidly and he and his team launched an innovative online impact dashboard showing real time transparent impact data. Now Matt has channelled his passion for data and impact into founding Trust Impact, a data and impact consultancy that helps charities and social enterprises demonstrate their impact strategically. We caught up with Matt to find out what other leaders can learn from a career fuelled by passion and purpose. We discussed what Matt’s path tells us about what career progression looks like for charity CEOs present and future, whether getting the CEO job title is even an aspiration for upcoming, grassroots leaders and if we should be doing more to make the path to top jobs more accessible. We also discuss how charities can learn more with their data and better demonstrate their impact. And stay tuned for bonus middle aged indie disco chat at the end of this episode! Paul and Zoe discuss the latest tech news, including Zoe’s recent hard hitting blog about what it’s really like to be a woman of colour in tech and our take on what Twitter’s Elon Musk shaped future could look like.
Notes and links - Matt Stevenson’s Dodd’s consultancy Trust Impact Ltd Trust Impact Ltd’s Connect Mix Share product Zoe Amar’s blog on Why Tech Needs To be More Inclusive Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 24 Nov 2020 | Episode 8 - Liz Williams MBE, CEO of FutureDotNow - Navigating the digital skills gap | 00:45:41 | |
In this episode we were delighted to chat to Liz Williams MBE, CEO of FutureDotNow. Liz discusses why organisations across every sector need to close the digital skills gap, and how to do it. We also talked about why digital inclusion has become an urgent social justice issue during COVID-19, why leaders need to be ambitious about improving digital capabilities and how the key to this is to keep learning. Zoe and Paul take a look at the latest tech news, including whether gaming really can improve wellbeing and Joe Biden’s online harassment taskforce. Could this be a step change for social media?
Notes and links - Gaming report from Oxford University Joe Biden’s Online Harassment Taskforce plans Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 14 Mar 2024 | Episode 63 - Aggie Mutuma, CEO of Mahogany Inclusion Partners - Why leaders need to do more on inclusion | 00:51:01 | |
Women in leadership special part 3: Aggie Mutuma on why leaders need to do more on inclusion
We speak to to Aggie Mutuma, CEO of Mahogany Inclusion Partners
It’s the third part of our new season special on women in leadership and we’re talking about a topic that’s on a lot of people’s minds this week: inclusion. In 2020, Black Lives Matter became a huge movement for change. Yet despite inclusion being on the news agenda regularly ever since, the stats around representation tell a different story. Has the momentum behind the drive for inclusion slowed? What’s really happening with EDI programmes? And, are leaders doing enough? We were delighted to have the opportunity to discuss all this and more with Aggie Mutuma, CEO of Mahogany Inclusion Partners. Aggie is a leading expert in Inclusion and Anti-Racism, as well as a passionate advocate, executive leadership coach, and engaging speaker, dedicated to fostering thriving cultures within organisations. Her achievements have earned her recognition as a top 20 Most Influential HR Thinker in 2022, as voted by her peers. Aggie joins us to discuss the state of play with inclusion and EDI programmes across different sectors and how, and why, leaders need to renew their commitment to this work. She tells us what really drives change in EDI, along with the practical steps leaders can take to help their organisations be more inclusive. Thank you to Aggie for sharing her invaluable advice. We loved talking to her. On a related note, Paul and Zoe also discuss the latest news on inclusion in the Parker Review in their round up of leadership news.
Notes Aggie Mutuma https://www.linkedin.com/in/aggie-mutuma/ Mahogany Inclusion Partners https://mahoganyinclusionpartners.com/ Leadership news: The Parker Review https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-68530034 ACEVO’s data on diversity in leadership https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/news/number-of-black-charity-ceos-declines-to-under-1-acevo-research-finds.html#sthash.x7RGYaPh.dpuf https://www.gov.uk/government/news/encouraging-diversity-in-public-appointments
Our sponsors We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by ArvatoConnect. Arvato Connect is a socially conscious customer experience and business optimisation partner, for organisations who are ready to reshape and reinvent how they work and connect with those who matter most. They develop and deliver innovative, technology-led solutions to enable their clients to form stronger connections, increase loyalty, create efficiencies – and ultimately, grow and confidently embrace the future. To find out more about how ArvatoConnect could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 22 Apr 2022 | Episode 30 - Avril Chester, Chief Technology Officer at RIBA and founder of Cancer Central | 00:46:59 | |
How to tackle your tech carbon footprint - We speak to Avril Chester, Chief Technology Officer at RIBA
Logging onto Zoom calls and relaxing in front of Netflix is part of our everyday lives. So we were shocked to learn that almost 4 percent of all carbon emissions are from digital technologies, according to a 2019 study by the Paris-based think tank The Shift Project. A one-hour video call between two people in London generates the same carbon impact as travelling 10km by train. This #EarthDay we wanted to find out how leaders can use tech to fight climate change. We chatted to Avril Chester, an award-winning technology entrepreneur, Chief Technology Officer at RIBA (and founder of Cancer Central.) Avril tells us about the work she is leading at RIBA to tackle the carbon impact of technology and their Tech Carbon Impact Wiki, as well as how other organisations can start this journey. She also discusssed her journey as a leader and how leaders can take on imposter syndrome. Avril also movingly shares the lessons she learned from chemotherapy that have shaped her as a leader. Paul and Zoe round up the latest tech news, including Jacob Rees-Mogg summoning civil servants back to the office and Elon Musk’s designs on Twitter.
Notes and links - RIBA’s Tech Carbon Impact Wiki Cancer Central Jacob Rees-Mogg sending the civil service back to the office (The Guardian) ALex Thomas’ Twitter thread on civil servants working from home Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 22 Jun 2023 | Episode 48 - Donna White, Senior Head of Digital and Youth Marketing at The Prince’s Trust | 00:40:46 | |
How to build your brand during a cost-of-living crisis
We talk to Donna White, Senior Head of Digital and Youth Marketing at The Prince’s Trust
When times get tough the first thing that gets cut is often the marketing budget. So when we heard that The Prince’s Trust was taking a creative approach to digital marketing during the cost of living crisis we had to find out more. We first met Donna White, Senior Head of Digital and Youth Marketing at The Prince’s Trust when she gave a brilliant presentation about her team’s work at the Charity Digital conference. So we invited her onto our podcast for a longer chat. Donna describes how she and her colleagues are using digital to affirm The Prince’s Trust's place as a youth brand, reaching young people as well as older supporters and donors. We discuss her charity’s canny approach to digital marketing during the cost of living crisis, focusing on partnerships, and how they are using data to be as efficient as possible about where they invest their efforts. Donna also shares her advice on the age-old challenge of making the case for marketing as a strategic, not a service function. We felt really inspired after talking to Donna. Her story shows that it’s possible to build a brand, achieve great results and be creative even when money is tight. Many thanks to Donna for sharing her insights.
Notes
The Prince’s Trust https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/
We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people, and processes to improve their customer journey while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 11 May 2021 | Episode 17 - Rob Young MBE, Chief Executive at Switch The Play Foundation | 00:45:28 | |
Mental health, transferable skills and tech
For Mental Health Awareness Week we wanted to speak to a leader about how to look after your mental health at a time of transition. Whether you’re changing your job or evaluating your life choices as we come out of the pandemic, this episode is for you.
Rob Young MBE, Chief Executive at Switch The Play Foundation shares with us what we can all learn from athletes (whether they play for local clubs or the Premier League) about how they navigate the big life event of leaving behind their sporting careers and plan for the future. We also discussed how to apply the sporting mindset to digital, including seeking feedback and identifying areas for improvement. We discuss how Switch the Play Foundation pivoted to online service delivery during the pandemic, reaching more than a thousand people as a result, and why we all need to identify our transferable skills in order to make the next leap in our careers. Zoe and Paul ponder why Zoom fatigue is affecting some groups more than others, how to manage the stress caused by ‘always on’ screen time and what the football boycott of social media will achieve. Notes and links - Zoom fatigue https://techmonitor.ai/leadership/workforce/zoom-fatigue-dark-side-new-hybrid-model-of-work BBC article on why screentime is at breaking point https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56838118 Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 07 Sep 2023 | Episode 52 - Ben Williams, CEO at Loopin | 00:57:08 | |
Why we need to think 'people-first' in the age of AI
We speak to Ben Williams, CEO and co-founder of AI start-up Loopin
We’re back from our summer break and excited to dive into discussing two of our favourite topics, workplace culture, and AI, with Ben Williams, CEO and co-founder of Loopin. Ben is a best-selling author and leadership coach, who has worked with the likes of Gareth Southgate’s England football team, Facebook, and Gymshark. With Loopin, Ben is using his commando mindset experience as a former Royal Marine and partnering with real-time AI to help combat burnout and empower managers to promote wellbeing in the workplace. We talked about empathy in the workplace, how leaders are recalibrating their leadership styles post lockdown, burnout, and how to motivate employees during a challenging year (and the answer isn’t what you think it might be). We also discuss the role that AI can play in improving employees’ well-being and supporting managers. This is a fascinating conversation that will be food for thought for anyone interested in improving organisational culture. Paul and Zoe also discuss tech news including where Google is at with AI.
More info about Loopin https://letsloopin.com/ Follow Loopin on: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/lets-loopin/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/letsloopin/?hl=en Twitter https://twitter.com/letsloopin
Notes Paul and Zoe discussed Google’s search for an AI future https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-66659361 We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!
Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 06 Jul 2022 | Episode 35 - Beth Parfitt and Kit Powney, Heads of Digital, Tearfund | 00:52:52 | |
How two digital leaders job share
We chat to Beth Parfitt, Head of Digital and Kit Powney, Head of Digital, Digital Maturity, at Tearfund
Competition to hire digital talent is fierce, and the great resignation is making this even harder. Could one of the answers to this problem be more digital leaders job sharing, offering them flexibility and peer support? In this week’s episode we chat to two digital leaders making this work. Beth Parfitt, Head of Digital and Kit Powney, Head of Digital, Digital Maturity,at Tearfund tell us how they collaborate on a ‘job split,’ managing projects and responsibilities between them. We hear how asynchronous communications, clear boundaries and above all trust between Beth and Kit and the charity they work for have helped them flourish in their roles together. We also discuss how Tearfund get the benefit of two brains and two perspectives. Zoe and Paul also discuss tech news, including how Glastonbury became a hybrid festival and what the overturning of Roe vs Wade means for menstrual tracking apps.
Notes and links - Tearfund - https://www.tearfund.org/
News stories: Security and privacy advice post Roe vs Wade https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-61952794 https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2022/06/security-and-privacy-tips-people-seeking-abortion
Online safety resources for children and parents https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/ https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/parents-and-carers
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| 31 Mar 2021 | Episode 14 - James Cusack, CEO of Autistica | 00:51:08 | |
Taking a neurodiverse approach to tech
We chat to James Cusack, CEO of Autistica. Everyone’s talking about inclusion. But how can we make the way we work and our approach to tech inclusive for people who are neurodiverse? We were keen to find out more in this episode, which coincides with Autism Awareness Week.
We spoke to James Cusack, CEO of Autistica and the UK's first openly autistic charity CEO about how organisations should factor neurodiversity into their plans, why this ultimately makes workplaces better for everyone, and how the pandemic has made him think differently about digital. Zoe and Paul also discuss what Chrissy Teigen’s exit means for Twitter and what we can learn from Citigroup’s plans to reset how they work and opt for "Zoom free Fridays". | |||
| 02 Dec 2020 | Episode 9 - Professor Carl Gombrich, London Interdisciplinary School | 00:53:55 | |
Preparing young people for the tech disruption of tomorrow
Growing digital skills will be vital in helping young people and the economy thrive in the future. How can schools and universities prepare the citizens of tomorrow for the challenges they’ll face? We were excited to speak to Professor Carl Gombrich of The London Interdisciplinary School, a new university in London which aims to give students the knowledge and skills to solve social and global problems in an increasingly interconnected world. Carl discusses where academia requires disruption, the need for an interdisciplinary skill set and what that means for the workplace of the future. We also discussed the shift to online learning and how leaders can help nurture digital skills in their organisations.
Notes and links - The London Interdisciplinary School https://www.londoninterdisciplinaryschool.org/ Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 05 Sep 2024 | Episode 73 - Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB | 00:58:34 | |
AI and Accessibility: RNIB's Innovative Approach to Inclusive Technology
We chat with Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB. In our new episode of Starts at the Top, we explore the intersection of AI, technology, and accessibility with Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People). Jim shares how RNIB is leveraging innovative technologies, including AI, to create more inclusive solutions for blind and partially sighted people. Key highlights:
Jim offers valuable insights on leadership in the digital age, emphasising the need for a broader, more collaborative approach to solving societal challenges. While AI is a part of RNIB's innovation strategy, Jim also discusses wider technological and design approaches to creating a more inclusive world. This episode is essential listening for charity leaders, tech innovators, and anyone interested in how technology, including AI, can contribute to greater accessibility and inclusion. What really excited us about this episode was hearing how RNIB is not just adapting to technological advancements, but actively shaping them to benefit all. This conversation will challenge your perceptions and inspire new thinking about inclusive design and innovation in the AI era. Don’t miss it! In tech news, Zoe and Paul discuss the recent BBC Panorama programme about screen time for children and parenting, Can We Live Without Our Phones?
Notes Find out more about RNIB https://www.rnib.org.uk/ BBC Panorama programme - Can We Live Without Our Phones? https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gdqzxypdzo https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0022n0f And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 28 Mar 2024 | Episode 64 - Dr Lucy Ryan, Managing Director of Mindspring International and author of ‘Revolting Women: why midlife women walk out (and what to do about it)’ | 00:54:01 | |
Women in leadership special part 4: Dr Lucy Ryan, author of ‘Revolting Women’ on why midlife women are leaving the workplace We speak to Dr Lucy Ryan, author of ‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’ Did you know that by January 2023 the number of women not in work had risen by 151,000 compared to 2020? More than twice as many women as men were not working because of family responsibilities. So when we saw that Dr Lucy Ryan had written a new book about why midlife women are leaving the workplace in their droves we knew we had to talk to her. Managing Director of Mindspring International for the last 20 years, Lucy has trained, consulted with, and coached over 10,000 leaders in global, blue-chip companies across 29 countries. She is also the author of ‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’ , a book about one group that is often ignored in EDI strategies: midlife women. We asked Lucy about what leaders need to do to turn back the tide of talented midlife women who are leaving the workforce. By the time women reach middle age they have accumulated a huge amount of knowledge and experience, and organisations cannot afford to lose them. We discuss how leaders can prevent this from happening. Lucy takes us through her agenda for change - and tells us why we all need to get behind it. Thank you to Lucy for a wonderful conversation. It left us feeling inspired and energised, and we hope it does the same for you. In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss social media addiction and how they’re trying to break bad habits with their phones.
Notes ‘Revolting Women:Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’ https://practicalinspiration.com/book/revolting-women Mimdspring https://mindspring.uk.com/pages/lucy-ryan Tech news The Honest Broker blog on dopamine culture https://www.honest-broker.com/p/the-state-of-the-culture-2024 The Guardian’s course on screentime reduction https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/mar/19/reclaim-your-brain-readers-screen-time-reduced Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 20 Jul 2023 | Episode 51 - Joe Ryle, Director of the 4 Day Week Campaign | 00:44:51 | |
What leaders need to know about the 4 day week
The 4 Day Week has grown in popularity since the pandemic and the rise of hybrid and remote working. Maybe you or your organisation have even tried it. Is it the future of the world of work? Or something that only works for certain roles and responsibilities? We thought we’d go straight to the source this week by talking to Joe Ryle, Director of the eponymous 4 Day Week Campaign. Joe and his team are campaigning for a four-day, 32 hour working week with no loss of pay. Is the 5 day a week model of work broken? In his discussion with us Joe discusses how the UK works some of the longest hours in Europe, yet it’s not making us more productive, just stressed and burned out. 58% of the British public expected a four-day week to be the normal way of working by 2030, with only 22% believing it would not. We chat through what leaders need to do to get ahead of this trend, and the practical tips they need to implement it. It certainly got us both thinking about how we can move to a 4 day week. Paul and Zoe discuss their experiences of new social media platform Threads, along with the key stats from the new Charity Digital Skills Report.
Notes
4 Day Week Campaign https://www.4dayweek.co.uk/ The Charity Digital Skills Report We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!
Editing and production - Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 27 Mar 2025 | Episode 82 - Brian Dow, Chief Executive of Mental Health UK and Deputy Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness | 00:59:18 | |
In this episode, we speak with Brian Dow, Chief Executive of Mental Health UK and Deputy Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness. Brian shares insights from Mental Health UK’s 2025 Burnout Report highlighting the concerning rise of stress and burnout, particularly among young professionals, and the growing trust deficit between employers and employees. Key Takeaways:
Inspired by this conversation, Zoe and Paul discuss mental health and the impact of social media and smartphones on children. Show notes Mental Health UK’s Burnout Report Edelman’s Trust Barometer Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 21 Dec 2020 | Episode 12 - Shelly Bell, Founder at Black Girl Ventures | 00:48:25 | |
We were delighted to speak to Shelly Bell, Founder at Black Girl Ventures, a social enterprise that creates access to social and financial capital for black and brown women founders. Shelly is also an inspirational speaker and serial entrepreneur. She was named one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Business by Entrepreneur Magazine, Entrepreneur of the Year by Technically DC and acknowledged as A Rising Brand Star by Adweek.
We talked to Shelly about how female entrepreneurs have been hit by the pandemic, about Black Girl Ventures’ pioneering approach to crowdfunding female entrepreneurs and why inclusion is key to progression in tech. Zoe and Paul discuss the rise of digital fitness and what this means for data privacy.
Notes and links - Black Girl Ventures https://www.blackgirlventures.org/ The rise of digital fitness https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-55318822 Google’s Fitbit deal https://www.theverge.com/2020/12/17/22158271/googles-fitbit-deal-eu-regulator-approval Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 18 Jul 2024 | Episode 71 - Devi Thomas of Microsoft Philanthropies and Dan Kershaw CEO of Furniture Bank | 00:59:35 | |
Demystifying AI: A Charity Leader's Guide to Digital Innovation
We chat to Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Nonprofit Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank
In this eye opening episode of Starts at the Top, we dive into the world of AI and its transformative potential for the charity sector. Join us as we chat with two visionaries at the forefront of charity digital innovation: Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Charity Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank in Canada. Devi shares invaluable insights on how AI is reshaping the charitable landscape, from streamlining operations to attracting new talent. She emphasises the sector's unique position to become "architects of AI solutions" for social good, challenging charities to lead the charge in ethical AI adoption. Dan Kershaw's story is nothing short of inspiring. He takes us through Furniture Bank's journey from AI novice to innovator, demonstrating how even small charities can harness AI's power with creativity and a dash of courage. From AI-generated imagery tackling 'furniture poverty' to multilingual volunteer support, Dan's practical examples prove that the potential of AI is within reach for all. Zoe and Paul discuss how leadership might change under the new Labour government.
Notes: Find out more about Furniture Bank https://www.furniturebank.org/about-furniture-bank/ and their AI generated campaign https://www.furniturebank.org/postcard/ Leadership news: Article about new Labour MP intake https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c727ny2jd84o And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 20 Jun 2024 | Episode 70 - Polly Neate, CEO at Shelter | 00:50:59 | |
Leading Through Crisis: Polly Neate on Resilience, Empathy & Speaking Truth to Power
We chat with Polly Neate, CEO at Shelter As the UK faces a defining general election amidst a deepening housing emergency, bold and resilient leadership has never been more crucial. In this raw and revealing episode, Polly Neate CBE, CEO of Shelter, shares hard-won lessons from her decades on the frontlines fighting for social justice. Polly offers an unflinching look at the challenges of leading a charity through nonstop change and fighting for social justice in a world increasingly fractured by fear and polarisation. Drawing on her experiences at Shelter, Women's Aid, and beyond, Polly makes a compelling case for the power of empathy and lived experience to cut through the noise and forge genuine connection. She challenges leaders to rethink authenticity, embracing consistency and boundaries as the foundations of trust and impact. As charities face mounting pressure to stay silent, Polly issues an urgent rallying cry to speak truth to power. She shares how Shelter is harnessing creativity and the power of storytelling to put the housing emergency firmly on the election agenda - and inspires listeners to find their own voice and conviction. Tune in for a master class in leading with integrity, grit, and heart. Learn how to support your teams through the toughest of times, stay grounded in purpose, and mobilise the public to drive systemic change. In a political landscape reshaped by COVID and Brexit, this episode is a must-listen for any leader seeking to navigate uncertainty and lead the charge for a more just and compassionate society. Get ready to be moved, challenged, and inspired to act. Please note our interview with Polly was recorded before the UK election was announced.
Notes Find out more about Shelter
Tech news BBC story- Bot or not: Are fake accounts swaying voters towards Reform UK? https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1335nj316lo Guardian article on the UK’s first AI MP: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/article/2024/jun/10/brighton-general-election-candidate-uk-first-ai-mp-artificial-intelligence Guardian article on smart doorbells and election campaigning: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/article/2024/jun/17/canvassing-to-empty-houses-knocking-on-doors-in-the-smart-doorbell-era And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 07 Dec 2023 | Episode 59 - Eloise Skinner - How to find meaning and purpose at work | 00:42:50 | |
We chat with Eloise Skinner, author of ‘But Are You Alive?’, founder and psychotherapist. It’s almost become a cliche to talk about finding meaning and purpose at work, especially with regard to the expectations of millennials and Generation Z, and what they want from employers. So what do leaders need to know about this? What does purpose and meaning really mean to young employees? And how should leaders facilitate this quest for meaning? Eloise Skinner is well placed to answer these questions, through her work as an author and psychotherapist. Having started her career in corporate law, Eloise’s work now focuses on existential topics like meaning, purpose and identity. Eloise’s newest book, ‘But Are You Alive?’, focuses on finding meaning and purpose in everyday life. We discuss the difference between meaning and purpose, practical tips to help people find their purpose, whether they are established or aspiring leaders, and what young people really want from the world of work. Zoe and Paul also discuss recent news stories about Nihal Arthanayake and inclusion at the BBC, as well as the government’s new AI skills framework for organisations.
Notes Eloise’s website: www.eloiseskinner.com Book link: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/eloise-skinner/but-are-you-alive/9781529398885/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/eloiseallexia News stories: Nihal Arthanayake and inclusion at the BBC https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/bbc-presenter-says-overwhelmingly-white-workplace-affects-his-mental-health/ar-AA1kJ00y https://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/tv-radio/nihal-arthanayake-bbc-white-journalism-b2455646.html UK government guidance on upskilling employees https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-business-guidance-to-boost-skills-and-unlock-benefits-of-ai Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 30 Jun 2023 | Episode 49 - Digital Leaders Week - How emerging tech can supercharge your digital transformation - Wales Air Ambulance and Arvato CRM | 00:56:21 | |
How emerging tech can supercharge your digital transformation (Digital Leaders Week - Special Episode)
We chat with Wales Air Ambulance Charity and Arvato CRM Solutions about their partnership
Can emerging technologies help your organisation’s digital transformation go further and faster? We attempted to answer this question as part of our live podcast recording at Digital Leaders Week, featuring Wales Air Ambulance Charity and Arvato CRM Solutions. We discussed how Wales Air Ambulance Charity used automation and AI to improve the donor and supporter experience, saving money and time, improving ways of working and developing staff skills. For example, using automation for new member communications has saved Wales Air Ambulance Charity up to £20,000 annually and is reducing its reliance on paper. Speakers: James Stephens Director of Finance & Commercial Services, Wales Air Ambulance Charity Mark Stevens- Head of Fundraising- Wales Air Ambulance Charity Mike Stewart- Intelligent Automation Practice Lead Arvato CRM Solutions
We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people, and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 22 Dec 2021 | Episode 28 - Social CEOs - Dr Wanda Wyporska, Ruth Ibegbuna, Simon Blake, Matt Collins | 00:45:49 | |
It’s almost Christmas and we thought we’d spoil you with an amazing panel of experts well versed in two big issues that we’re hearing a lot about from leaders right now. One, how can leaders deal with the pitfalls that come with an increasingly tough climate on social media? Two, how can they do so whilst looking after themselves? We were thrilled to speak to our four wonderful guests: two former winners of the Social CEOs awards, Dr Wanda Wyporska, CEO of the Society of Genealogists and Ruth Ibegbuna, Founder of RECLAIM, the Roots Programme and Rekindle, along with two Social CEOs stalwarts: our Chair of Judges Simon Blake, CEO of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England and co-founder Matt Collins, Managing Director of Platypus Digital. All of them have a wealth of experience and advice to share on how you can be bold and authentic online in the age of cancel culture, which leaders they rate at using social media for social change successfully and where leaders can go for support if they’re having a tough time. We’ve gone out with a bang for our Season 4 Finale and we will be back in spring 2022. Thanks so much to all our listeners and see you then!
Notes and links - Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 08 May 2025 | Episode 84 - Steph Wright, Head of the Scottish AI Alliance | 00:43:54 | |
Decoding AI: Trust, Ethics, and the Path to Inclusive Innovation
Join Zoe Amar and Paul Thomas on Starts at the Top for a conversation with Steph Wright, Head of the Scottish AI Alliance. In this episode, we delve into the landscape of artificial intelligence, exploring how we can move beyond the hype to build a future where AI is not only innovative but also fundamentally trustworthy, ethical, and inclusive. Steph brings a diverse perspective to the AI conversation, drawing from a fascinating background that spans astrophysics, the arts, and the third sector. She shares her unique journey and how these varied experiences have shaped her commitment to ensuring AI benefits everyone in society. In this engaging discussion, Zoe, Paul, and Steph discuss:
Zoe and Paul also delve into:
Charity AI Task Force response to government AI action plan Chartered Accountants Worldwide - report on accountants and AI Scottish AI Alliance Steph Wright on LinkedIn Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 19 Jan 2023 | Episode 41 - The Fun Episode with Mike Rucker and Emmy O’Shaughnessy | 00:54:50 | |
How to put the fun back into work
We speak to Emmy O’Shaugnessy, Director of Innovation and Growth at Oxfordshire Youth, and Michael Rucker, organisational psychologist and author of The Fun Habit.
The last 3 years have been tough and 2023 will be challenging. Engaging our teams is more important than ever so how can we bring fun and joy back into the workplace? Is it even possible right now? Joining us this week are two leaders who think it’s not only achievable but necessary to experience pleasure and enjoyment at work. Emmy O’Shaugnessy, Director of Innovation and Growth at Oxfordshire Youth, is doing fascinating work with her organisation about this. Michael Rucker, an organisational psychologist based in Silicon Valley, is the author of The Fun Habit, a new book about the pursuit of joy and wonder and how it can change your life. Emmy and Michael take us through how leaders can create more opportunities for fun at work, how to make it inclusive, and where enjoyment can create additional benefits, such as developing psychological safety and changing your culture. Ultimately it’s about us all being free to be who we are at work, and who doesn’t want that?
Notes: Oxfordshire Youth Follow Emmy on Twitter The Fun Habit book (published by Pan Macmillan) Connect with Mike via his website and Twitter We also discussed this legal case about how a French employee won the right not to be fun at work(Business Insider).
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
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| 15 Dec 2021 | Episode 27 - Tom Loosemore, Partner at Public Digital | 00:50:02 | |
We speak to Tom Loosemore, Partner at Public Digital and co-author of Digital Transformation At Scale. Getting the right team in place for your digital transformation, and helping them work on the right things, can be the difference between success and failure. What can leaders do to build winning teams? Tom Loosemore, Partner at Public Digital and co-author of Digital Transformation At Scale has a wealth of insights to share on building teams to do pioneering work in digital, from his experience as deputy director at Government Digital Service, Director of Digital Strategy at the Co-Operative Group, and digital strategy lead at OFCOM. Tom tells us what leaders need to do to help their organisations take their digital transformations to the next level, and how to tackle culture change at a time when many of your colleagues will be exhausted and craving stability. Tom is giving away a signed copy of his new book Digital Transformation at Scale and you could win a copy if you sign up for our newsletter. Zoe and Paul share their round-up of the latest tech news, from what the new Beatles documentary can teach us about collaboration, and what the future of work will look like in 2022. The interview with Tom Loosemore starts at 13:07 Notes and links - Tom’s new book is Digital Transformation At Scale (updated 2nd edition) We discussed: What the Beatles documentary can teach us about collaboration (Huffington Post) -For more on this topic, listen to our previous episode about what we can learn from musicians about collaboration https://www.startsatthetop.co.uk/episodes/episode21-digital-leadership-music-innovation US boss fires 900 employees over Zoom (BBC) Instagram builds in new features to help teenagers reduce screentime (BBC) What work will look like in 2022 (WIRED) Annual Google search terms report (BBC) Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 29 Feb 2024 | Episode 62 - Cathy Newman, journalist, author and presenter of Channel4 News | 00:52:29 | |
Women in leadership special part 2: Cathy Newman on life lessons from female leaders
We chat to Cathy Newman, award-winning journalist, broadcaster and author
In the second part of our new season special on women in leadership we chat to Cathy Newman. You’ll know Cathy as one of Channel 4 News' main studio presenters. She’s also an award winning journalist and an author, joining us to talk about her new book The Ladder: Life Lessons from Women Who Scaled The Heights and Dodged The Snakes. The Ladder draws together the stories Cathy has heard from the extraordinary women she has spoken to on her Times Radio segment of the same name, from Angela Raynor to Davina McCall to Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah. Diverse as these women are, there are many common themes in their stories, which we explore with Cathy. From dealing with imposter syndrome, facing success and failure and embracing change, this episode is packed full of invaluable advice on how to navigate careers and life. We also discuss how leaders can take on board the experiences of women to create inclusive workplaces. Thank you to Cathy for a hugely energising and inspiring discussion. Please do share this episode with anyone who you think could benefit from Cathy’s insights.
Notes Order The Ladder: Life Lessons from Women Who Scaled The Heights and Dodged The Snakes by Cathy Newman We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by ArvatoConnect. Arvato Connect is a socially conscious customer experience and business optimisation partner, for organisations who are ready to reshape and reinvent how they work and connect with those who matter most. They develop and deliver innovative, technology-led solutions to enable their clients to form stronger connections, increase loyalty, create efficiencies – and ultimately, grow and confidently embrace the future. To find out more about how ArvatoConnect could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 21 May 2021 | Episode 18 - Danny Attias, Chief Digital & Information Officer at Anthony Nolan | 00:54:23 | |
Digital turf wars: who should lead your digital transformation?
We’ve all seen the meme about COVID-19 leading your digital transformation. But who should really lead it- should it be your digital, IT, or finance lead, or even your CEO? There couldn’t be a better person to answer this question than Danny Attias, Chief Digital & Information Officer at Anthony Nolan and No 1 CIO in the UK. Danny tells us who should- and shouldn’t- lead the charge on digital disruption. We also chat through how to create a fail-fast culture, Danny’s top tips on how to build a diverse tech team, and why trust is the secret ingredient of organisational change. Zoe and Paul round up the latest tech news, including The Charity Digital Skills Report survey launch, why you shouldn’t troll your staff with the promise of a bonus (thanks West Midlands Trains), Twitter’s touted premium service and new research into the emotional nuance of emojis. (Apologies for the audio issues in the intro and outro - the joys of recording over Zoom!)
Notes and links -
The 2021 Charity Digital Skills Report https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/charitydigital2021 West Midland’s phishing email https://www.cnbc.com/2021/05/11/west-midlands-trains-sends-staff-phishing-email-promising-bonus.html Twitter plots premium service https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/may/17/twitter-mulling-paid-service-called-twitter-blue-finds-researcher The Alan Turing Institute research into emojis https://www.turing.ac.uk/blog/emoji-are-even-more-language-previously-thought Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 22 Jun 2022 | Episode 34 - Eleanor Young, Head of Content at Shelter | 00:54:58 | |
The leaders’ guide to content
Content is a huge part of what every organisation, and every leader does. How else will your users hear about what you do or engage with your services? And yet content is still often seen as an operational function, not a critical element of every organisation’s proposition and strategy. This week we speak to Eleanor Young, Head of Content at Shelter, who is on a mission to change this. She takes us through the new approach to content that she has pioneered at her charity, helping position Shelter as a leader in its field. She tells us how to educate leaders about content, how to take a product approach to it, and how tackling content in the right way can bring a host of other benefits including growing skills, creating new ways of working and culture change. Zoe and Paul discuss the latest tech news, including the Blackbaud and Salesforce NRA controversy, and whether female music artists are under too much pressure to Tik Tok.
Notes and links -
News stories:
https://www.protocol.com/bulletins/salesforce-nra-policy https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/news/charities-urged-to-probe-suppliers-partners-after-software-firm-links-to-us-gun-lobbyists-revealed.html https://fundraising.co.uk/2022/06/09/blackbaud-faces-backlash-for-working-with-nra/
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2022/may/30/tiktok-female-musicians-self-esteem-rebecca-taylor https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/tiktok-is-turning-music-marketing-into-a-labyrinthian-game/ Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 25 Apr 2024 | Episode 66 - Mark Shayler, Founder of Ape and Author of ‘You Can’t Make Money From A Dead Planet’ | 00:51:58 | |
Sustainability: From Buzzword to Business Imperative
We speak to Mark Shayler, Author of ‘You Can’t Make Money From A Dead Planet’
Can profit and planet truly go hand-in-hand? How can leaders get sustainability on the boardroom agenda and baked into the DNA of their organisation? In this candid chat, Mark Shayler - bestselling author, sustainability guru and founder of Ape, a sustainability and innovation studio - pulls no punches on what it takes to make environmental responsibility a revenue-protecting business imperative, not just a box-ticking exercise. Mark joins us to discuss his recent book ‘You Can’t Make Money From a Dead Planet.’ Having advised big hitters like Nike, Bacardi and WPP, saving them over $200 million a year through greener practices, Mark offers real-world insights for leaders wanting to shift sustainability from greenwashing to genuine competitive advantage. This is an honest discussion about squaring profit with planet, getting buy-in from leaders, and Mark shares simple steps that will help even small organisations begin their journey towards sustainability. This is essential listening for any organisation that is serious about doing good business, and business for good, in the 21st century. In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss the latest AI developments.
Notes Mark Shayler’s new book https://www.koganpage.com/responsible-business/you-can-t-make-money-from-a-dead-planet-9781398612020 Ape Studios https://www.thisisape.co.uk/ Tech news Share your views in The Charity Digital Skills Report survey Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 02 Nov 2023 | Episode 56 - Dr Michelle P. King, author of How Work Works | 00:55:26 | |
The future trends coming to your workplace We speak with Dr Michelle P.King, author of How Work Works and expert on organisational culture
Michelle P. King has spent the last two decades researching organisations and is an expert on organisational culture. She is a Senior Advisor to the UN Foundation’s Girl Up campaign, where she leads the NextGen Leadership Development Programme and was previously Director of Inclusion at Netflix and the Head of UN Women’s Global Innovation Coalition for Change. Her latest book, How Work Works, is about the changes that have disrupted the workplace in recent times- and how to navigate them. We chat to Michelle about how the workplace is evolving, from the need for greater inclusion to the rise of AI and how organisations might change again over the next few years. We also discuss how leaders, and employees, can prepare for the disruption ahead and get on the front foot with their careers. Michelle also tells us how leaders can create meaningful, fulfilling cultures for their teams. This episode is a great listen for anyone looking to understand how their organisation and its culture are developing in ways you may not be aware of. Michelle’s book How Work Works is out now.
Notes How Work Works - https://www.michellepking.com/how-work-works/ More about Michelle P.King - https://www.michellepking.com/ We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 23 May 2024 | Episode 68 - Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers - How Leaders Can Champion LGBTQIA+ Inclusion | 00:50:35 | |
The Safe Space Imperative: How Leaders Can Champion LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
We chat with Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers As the UK gears up for a historic election, the need for safe, inclusive spaces has never been more critical. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers, to explore how they're transforming the landscape for LGBTQIA+ people across civil society. Lucy shares the inspiring story of how Proud Changemakers was born from a burning desire to create a platform where LGBTQIA+ voices could be heard, celebrated, and empowered. From their groundbreaking podcast to their vibrant social media presence, Lucy and their team are on a mission to spark change and foster belonging in a world that often feels anything but safe. We dive deep into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in organisations of all sizes, from the isolation of being the sole representative in a small charity to navigating the complex dynamics of large LGBTQIA+ networks. Lucy offers invaluable insights on how leaders can cultivate genuinely inclusive environments where every person can thrive. With a career spanning over 15 years in the voluntary sector, Lucy brings a wealth of expertise in communications, campaigning, and community building. They reveal the game-changing potential of grassroots movements like Proud Changemakers to drive sector-wide transformation and imagine a bold future where their model could revolutionise inclusion across all industries. At a time when the stakes couldn't be higher, this episode is a rallying cry for leaders everywhere to stand with the LGBTQIA+ community, champion diversity, and build a society where every voice is valued. Tune in to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to lead the change. In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through what’s new in the world of AI. Please note this episode was recorded before the UK general election was announced, on 22 May 2024.
Notes Find out more about Proud Changemakers https://linktr.ee/proudchangemakers
Tech news LinkedIn post about AI and inclusion https://www.linkedin.com/posts/zoeamar_artificialintelligence-charities-inclusion-activity-7197151633812668417-EGjE? BBC story about Geoff Hinton and Universal Basic Income https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnd607ekl99o.amp Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 21 Sep 2023 | Episode 53 - Alice Kershaw, Head of Digital Transformation at The Wildlife Trusts | 01:02:34 | |
How The Wildlife Trusts are taking on digital transformation
We chat with Alice Kershaw, Head of Digital Transformation at The Wildlife Trusts
Digital transformation can often feel very project heavy. This week we talk to Alice Kershaw, Head of Digital Transformation at The Wildlife Trusts, who is leading a holistic, root and branch approach to their digital transformation. It’s all about creating sustainable, lasting change. Alice discusses the digital journey so far at The Wildlife Trusts, along with the knotty topic of how to make decisions about digital in a federated organisation. This involves work with staff who are at early stages on the digital journey, and Alice shares why the energy for digital transformation can come from those working at the grassroots. We also discuss exciting projects she has been involved in such as Nextdoor Nature, and what she wishes she had learned earlier in her career. Zoe and Paul discuss what the response to the allegations about Russell Brand and Elon Musk’s idea to charge Twitter users tells us about the current state of socila media. The Wildlife Trusts https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/ Check out their campaigns https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/get-involved/our-campaigns Paul and Zoe discussed: The News Agents’ podcast https://youtu.be/Ypnm630R04g?si=8Kz11Ob86NIJfL8S Starts At The Top interview with Soma Sara https://www.startsatthetop.co.uk/episodes/episode50-toxic-masculinity-workplace-leaders Elon Musk story from The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/sep/19/elon-musk-twitter-x-subscription-fees-users-posts We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 19 Dec 2024 | Episode 79 - Alison Court, Chief Transformation Officer at Oxfam and a discussion about AI | 00:40:48 | |
The Year AI Changed Everything: 2024's Biggest Leadership Lessons
We chat to Alison Court, Chief Transformation Officer at Oxfam In a special end-of-the-year episode, Starts at the Top tackles the elephant in every boardroom: artificial intelligence. Paul and Zoe unpack how 2024 became the year AI moved from buzzword to business reality, revealing stark differences between how charities and companies are rising to the challenge. Drawing on their vantage points across both sectors, Paul and Zoe deliver eye-opening insights: while grassroots charity workers are embracing AI with gusto (adoption soaring from 35% to 61% this year), many charity leaders remain hesitant. Meanwhile, the private sector is seeing AI reshape entire business models, backed by serious investment. The resulting discussion is both a wake-up call and a practical roadmap for 2025. We discuss:
Featured Interview: Alison Court, Oxfam's Chief Transformation Officer, shares candid insights about getting board-level buy-in for AI innovation - a must-listen for anyone trying to drive digital change from the top. Looking ahead to 2025, Paul and Zoe discuss their AI New Year's resolutions for leaders, including Zoe's insider preview of the updated Charity Digital Code of Practice and Paul's compelling case for putting AI at the heart of five-year strategies. Don't miss this essential capstone to a year that changed everything about how we think about leadership and AI. Note - The clip we discussed at the end of the episode hasn't been included. We'll add it to a future episode and share it on social media.
Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 15 Dec 2022 | Episode 39 - Jane Ide, CEO of ACEVO | 00:51:44 | |
What will the leaders of 2023 need? We speak to Jane Ide, CEO of ACEVO
The last two years have seen huge, unprecedented upheaval, leading to the current state of permacrisis. There are so many challenges facing civil society, and the wider world, into 2023. What qualities will leaders need for the road ahead? Few civil society leaders are better placed to answer this question than Jane Ide, CEO of ACEVO, the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations. Jane discusses why CEOs need time to think, and space to invest in relationships. We also discuss how leaders can master continuous change, both professionally and personally. If you’re a leader who’s ever experienced doubt, wondered where to focus your attention or questioned whether you’re working as successfully as you can with your team this episode is for you. Jane’s insights are both inspiring and reassuring, and will set you on the right path for 2023. Zoe and Paul also discuss how podcasts can be more inclusive, along with their views on racism at sector events.
Notes: Find out more about ACEVO Zoe Amar’s blog What does ‘Where are you really from?’ really mean? Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of episode 39 with Jane Ide (.txt file) - transcript also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 26 Feb 2025 | Re-publishing - Sal Naseem, author of “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial” | 01:01:29 | |
We're republishing our episode with Sal Naseem ahead of our new season which starts this Thursday, 27th February. This episode launched in the lead-up to Christmas 2024 and we are incredibly proud of it. We wanted to give our listeners, another chance to listen and to bring it to the top of everyone's feeds. Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of racial abuse, workplace bullying, and discrimination which some listeners may find distressing In this powerful episode, Sal Naseem, former Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, shares his extraordinary journey of leading change within policing oversight during some of the most challenging cases in recent history, from Wayne Cousins to the Sarah Everard case. He discusses how maintaining your values and moral compass is crucial when pushing for systemic change, even in the face of intense resistance. In his role as Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Sal spent nearly a decade overseeing some of the most high-profile police misconduct cases. Recognised as one of the top 10 voices on anti-discrimination on LinkedIn and named in the Diversity Power List 2023-24, Sal has contributed to several BBC documentaries and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Through his deeply personal account, Sal shares vital lessons about leading change in complex systems:
One of Sal's most powerful insights is that "to lead in a values-led way and to lead in a true sense is hard because you have to make hard choices." His experiences demonstrate how maintaining your moral compass can guide you through the most challenging leadership decisions. Sal's new book, "True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" is available on Amazon and in all good bookshops. It offers a raw and honest account of his experiences fighting for change within the system while facing institutional resistance and personal challenges. Photo credit: Lensi Photography Buy Sal’s best-selling book, “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" Subscribe to Sal’s newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/finding-your-true-north-7201671449361756160/ And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 10 Jul 2020 | Episode 4 - What do leaders need to do now? | 00:25:46 | |
Paul and Zoe reflect on the digital trends they’ve seen during lockdown - and what these mean for leaders.
This week we take stock of the big digital changes we’ve seen during lockdown, and discuss their long term implications. We discuss how leadership is changing, managing risk, recruiting for digital skills, and adapting your organisation to the new normal. We spoke to Richard Brooks, CEO at translation business K International, and Jane Lambert, CEO of ECG Training to find out how they are dealing with these developments. We also discuss what to do when small children invade your video call, and how to handle online meeting presenteeism. Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin. Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 18 Nov 2021 | Episode 25 - Imran Ahmed, CEO of Center for Countering Digital Hate | 00:56:28 | |
What do leaders need to know about online harm? We speak to Imran Ahmed, founder and chief executive of the Center for Countering Digital Hate. Online hate speech in the UK and US has grown by 20% since the start of the pandemic. 48% of charity CEOs have experienced trolling. So what do leaders need to know about online harm and how to tackle it? Imran Ahmed is an expert on this issue. As the founder and chief executive of the Center for Countering Digital Hate he spends his days advising leaders and organisations from all over the world about it. Imran joins us to discuss how the environment on social media has changed, what new legislation in the UK and US means for social media platforms and what leaders need to do about online abuse to protect their organisations and themselves. Imran tells us what all of this means for brands and reputation management in the digital age, and shares the practical tips that every leader needs to know. Paul and Zoe chat through what we can learn from new remote working legislation from Portugal, and whether being in the office affects career progression. The interview with Imran starts at the 16:00 minute point. Notes and links - Center for Countering Digital Hate We discussed: Portugal makes it illegal for your boss to text you after work Women warned working from home harms their careers (BBC) Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 07 Jun 2023 | Episode 47 - Kim Perlow, Founder and CEO of Link UP London | 00:55:00 | |
How to tap into the power of skilled volunteers It’s Volunteers Week so we wanted to find out how charities and corporates alike can benefit from skilled volunteering programmes. Kim Perlow is the founder and CEO of Link UP London an organisation that harnesses professional skills for social good through skilled volunteering. Link UP, which started in 2016, is committed to building stronger communities and offering meaningful volunteer opportunities by connecting skilled professionals with charitable organisations, in areas such as legal, finance, human resources, communications, marketing, data, strategy, organisational development and more. We chat to Kim about volunteering trends, how smart use of volunteering is helping charity leaders to take a step back from delivery to think about strategy and how the way that corporates and charities partner on volunteering initiatives is changing. Zoe and Paul share another update on what’s going on with AI following the statement from the Center for AI Safety.
Notes Link UP London would love to hear from anyone interested in volunteering their skills in a meaningful way with London based community organisations or engaging their company in a skilled volunteering event or programme. You can learn more on their website – www.linkuplondon.org Find out more about their Corporate Programme - https://linkuplondon.org/corporates/ You can also find them on: LinkedIn – linkuplondon Twitter - linkuplondonuk Instagram - linkuplondonuk New stories: Ars Technica story on statement from Center for AI Safety Rest is Politics podcast AI special Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 05 Apr 2022 | Episode 29 - Martha Awojobi, CEO of JMB Consulting and founder of #BAMEOnline | 00:53:42 | |
How can you be an anti-racist leader? We chat to Martha Awojobi, CEO of JMB Consulting and founder of #BAMEOnline Three years on from #CharitySoWhite and two years since the murder of George Floyd inclusion is a matter on many leaders’ minds. So how can you lead this work in the right way, and create the change you want to see in your organisation? Martha Awojobi, CEO of JMB Consulting and founder of #BameOnline ( the fundraising conference that aims for an end to racism in fundraising and philanthropy) has the answers to these questions. Martha has a ton of wisdom to share about how leaders can improve their racial literacy, set ambitions for change and keep going, when the going gets tough. All of this involves leaders asking big, existential questions about what the future holds for them and their organisations. Zoe and Paul also discuss the latest tech news, including new research on working from home and productivity.
Notes and links - JMB Consulting Sign up for BAMEOnline Nick Bloom’s thread on Stanford University’s research about working from home Matt Smith of Think Consulting Solutions’ remote work Twitter thread
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 25 May 2023 | Episode 46 - Ian Dunt, Author and Political Journalist | 00:48:28 | |
How to influence Westminster now We meet Ian Dunt, author, political journalist and broadcaster Have you ever wondered what really goes on in Westminster? Maybe you work in policy and are planning how to campaign for change in politically turbulent times? Ian Dunt, author of new bestselling book How Westminster Works…and Why It Doesn’t is here to lift the lid on Westminster and share what he found, and what this tells us about leadership. As a political journalist and broadcaster, Ian spent several years working in the heart of Westminster. Ian discusses why our political system needs to change, how ministers make decisions, whether politicians getting burned out is a political issue, and how your organisation can influence policy when so much is up in the air. What needs to change about the current system, and how can we make this happen? This interview will be invaluable for anyone interested in or involved in working with politicians. We’re grateful to Ian for a very thought provoking conversation. Speaking of politics, Zoe and Paul discuss what’s going on with AI regulation at the start of this episode.
Notes Find Ian's book here: How Westminster Works... and Why It Doesn't by Ian Dunt Follow Ian Dunt on Twitter Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts also available through your podcast app.
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| 25 Jun 2020 | Episode 2 - Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, Head STEMette | 01:06:23 | |
This is the second episode of Starts at the Top, a new podcast hosted by Zoe Amar and Paul Thomas. It’s about how leaders from all sectors are using digital to navigate uncertainty and forge a path to the future. This week Zoe and Paul are joined by Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, Head STEMette, visiting Professor at the University of Sunderland, keynote speaker and a renowned champion and inspiration for women looking to find a role in the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). We talked about diversity and inclusion, gender and leadership, the role of tech during and after COVID-19, getting young people into STEM and the ethics of big tech. Anne-Marie was incredibly thought provoking on these issues. She also shares her recommendations for books and TV shows in an extra segment hidden after the end music. Notes and links – STEMettes https://stemettes.org/ Sadia Khan’s interview about leadership and mental health (paywall) https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/interview-sadiq-khan-on-his-struggles-during- lockdown-in-london-8msxm0rd2 How To Fail podcast interview with Matthew Syed https://howtofail.podbean.com/e/how-to-fail-matthew-syed/ Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 18 Jun 2020 | Episode 1 - Simon Blake, CEO of Mental Health First Aid England | 00:47:29 | |
This is the first episode of Starts at the Top, a new podcast from Zoe Amar and Paul Thomas. It’s about how leaders from all sectors are using digital to navigate uncertainty and forge a path to the future. This week Zoe and Paul are joined by Simon Blake, CEO of Mental Health First Aid England who they spoke to at the beginning of May at the height of the Lockdown from his partner’s dental surgery! The conversation covers Simon’s take on the shift that all of us have experienced under lockdown - the new ways that he and his team have had to approach work and the new digital skills he has had to develop as a leader. Simon also talks passionately about mental health and how this pandemic is affecting us all now and into the future. Notes and links - Simon’s blog post - https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/ceo-blog/ten-things-coronavirus-lockdown-simon-blake/ If ‘Black Lives Matter’ to brands, where are your black board members https://www.marketingweek.com/mark-ritson-black-lives-matter-brands/ (Please bear with us - the shift to online recording means that there are some variations in sound quality on this episode) Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!
Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 23 Feb 2023 | Episode 43 - Jeff Nathenson, Managing Director, Whistle Sports | 00:50:24 | |
How leaders can reach Gen Z online
We speak to Jeff Nathenson, Managing Director, International at Whistle. We speak to a lot of leaders who want to reach young people online. So how do you get the attention of Gen Z, when every brand and influencer is competing for their attention? Jeff Nathenson is Managing Director, International at Whistle, the digital entertainment media company for Gen-Z. Launching the international business of Whistle in 2014, Jeff has also worked on strategy, programming, channel management, marketing, and monetisation on behalf of The Premier League, the Olympics, FIFA, World Rugby, Major League Baseball, and many others. Jeff discusses how reaching young people online requires a completely different approach to communications, focused on participation in conversations with, and putting power in the hands of, your community. He tells us what this means for your digital marketing strategy and shares his advice on how older, more established organisations can learn from relative newcomers like YouTubers turned businesspeople, KSI and Logan Paul. Zoe and Paul also discuss the latest tech news, focusing on the role of social media in policing. | |||
| 20 Oct 2021 | Episode 22 - Ursula Dolton, Chief Technology Officer at the British Heart Foundation | 00:57:26 | |
And we’re back! For the first episode of our new season we were delighted to talk to Ursula Dolton, Chief Technology Officer at the British Heart Foundation. We discussed a question that we’ve heard a lot from leaders: how can we make truly data-informed decisions? Ursula told us how she is driving the processes, culture change and new ways of leading needed to make this happen at her charity. And with so many organisations now dependent on technology, Ursula also shares her experiences on how to create strong partnerships with suppliers where you focus on achieving goals together, underpinned by shared values.
Zoe and Paul round up the latest tech news, including how organisations are getting on with hybrid working, why the government want us all to head back to the office and what the whistleblowing story means for your relationship with Facebook. Spoiler: it’s complicated. Notes and links - We discussed:
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 16 Mar 2023 | Episode 44 - Sharon Jones, Head of Digital Innovation at The King’s Fund. | 00:44:27 | |
How to put digital at the heart of your organisation
We chat to Sharon Jones, Head of Digital Innovation at The King’s Fund We’re closing season 6 by chatting to a charity digital legend about their journey as a leader. Step forward Sharon Jones, Head of Digital Innovation at The King’s Fund. Sharon has worked as an editor and producer in organisations such as MTV, Sky and among others, the BBC. Before The King’s Fund she also worked at BookTrust. We discuss which of these experiences informed the way she leads and why, the digital challenges and opportunities she is leading on at The King's Fund and her thoughts on digital skills. We also chat through the latest digital trends facing the sector, and where charities are at with inclusion. Zoe and Paul also discuss what the Gary Lineker story means for how your organisation uses social media. Could your organisation face a staff walkout about a colleague’s tweets in the future?
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 11 Nov 2020 | Episode 7 - Vicky Charles, Shelter UK - The secrets of successful remote working | 00:56:54 | |
We were thrilled to chat to Vicky Charles, Assistant Director of Technology & Data at Shelter UK. Vicky shared her thoughts on how to start a new job during lockdown, how to bring remote teams together whilst managing wellbeing, why staff need to feel that they have a stake in digital and what organisations can learn from how they’ve adapted during COVID-19. Paul and Zoe discuss what the new BBC social media guidelines could mean for your organisation and how Chrissy Teigen has opened up an online discussion about a difficult subject.
Notes and links - The BBC’s new social media guidelines https://www.bbc.co.uk/editorialguidelines/guidance/individual-use-of-social-media Chrissy Teigen’s Medium essay https://chrissyteigen.medium.com/hi-2e45e6faf764 Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 01 Dec 2021 | Episode 26 - Joy Foster, Founder of TechPixies | 00:45:02 | |
Women represent 31% of the UK tech workforce and just 10% of its leadership roles. So what can we do to improve this? Joy Foster, Founder of Techpixies is on a mission to help thousands of women upskill with social media so that they can return to work, change careers or start their own business. Since 2015 she and her colleagues have helped 5,000 women grow their tech skills. She joins us to discuss the unique qualities that women bring to working in technology and how to create a more inclusive workforce. Paul and Zoe discuss the latest tech news, including a new film about microaggressions, and how ‘joyscrolling’ can help you find happiness online.
Notes and links - Find out more about TechPixies here - Techpixies We discussed: Badlands’ short film about microaggressions ‘I sniffed out good news like a bloodhound’: how I broke my doomscrolling habit by Pandora Sykes for The Guardian Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 27 Feb 2025 | Episode 80 - Kwesi Afful - Executive Director of Digital and Marketing at Scope | 00:50:11 | |
Why Every Leader Needs an Exit Strategy
We chat with Kwesi Afful, Executive Director of Digital and Marketing at Scope. Kwesi Afful, Executive Director of Digital and Marketing at Scope, joins us to discuss his bold approach to leadership: building the deletion of his role into the company's business plan. In this episode of Starts at the Top, we have a cracking chat with Kwesi Afful, the Executive Director of Digital and Marketing at Scope. Kwesi shares his journey from the NHS to the charity sector and highlights the importance of collaboration and partnerships to achieve greater impact. But here's the real kicker: Kwesi's decided to make his role redundant by April 2026! This bold move challenges traditional notions of leadership and succession planning, raising questions about how we can ensure a smooth transition and continued success for organisations.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Join us as we explore these topics and more with Kwesi Afful in this inspiring episode of Starts at the Top. Paul and Zoe discuss what’s happening with AI across the charity sector, including the new AI taskforce and the consultation for the new Charity Digital Code of Practice.
Show notes:
Find out more about Scope Zoe and Paul discussed: The Charity AI Taskforce https://www.wearecast.org.uk/our-work/how-we-work-with-funders-and-partners/charity-ai-task-force/ The Charity Digital Code of Practice consultation (small charities) The Charity Digital Code of Practice consultation (large charities) Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 24 Jun 2021 | Episode 20 - Nicolas Bonard, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival Media Ventures | 00:39:11 | |
This summer you may be heading to a music festival. It says a lot about the times we’re in now, that you are as likely to have that experience in a field full of strangers as you are watching performances from the comfort of your sofa with your family. But what does that mean for the business model of festivals? And what role should digital play in the festival goer’s experience? Nicolas Bonard, CEO of Montreux Jazz Festival Media Ventures, was brought in to help answer those very questions. He tells us how he and his team are using digital to reinvent the festival experience, revisiting why they exist, what their proposition is and how to diversify their offering. If you run any kind of annual event, or if your organisation needs to reach young people, or you’re planning to reinvent what you do, Nicolas has lots of great advice for you. Zoe and Paul also share the latest tech news, including how the debate between working from home or the office is getting heated and why GPs may be prescribing data generated music playlists rather than pills in the future.
Notes and links - How tech could help create music prescriptions- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/technology-57328798 BBC article on how Bumble is mandating a paid week off to combat burnout https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-57562230 No It Doesn’t Need to Be A Zoom (article from WIRED) CITY AM article Deloitte tells start they can work from home forever Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 05 Dec 2024 | Episode 78 - Sal Naseem, author of “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial” | 01:01:28 | |
Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of racial abuse, workplace bullying, and discrimination which some listeners may find distressing In this powerful episode, Sal Naseem, former Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, shares his extraordinary journey of leading change within policing oversight during some of the most challenging cases in recent history, from Wayne Cousins to the Sarah Everard case. He discusses how maintaining your values and moral compass is crucial when pushing for systemic change, even in the face of intense resistance. In his role as Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Sal spent nearly a decade overseeing some of the most high-profile police misconduct cases. Recognised as one of the top 10 voices on anti-discrimination on LinkedIn and named in the Diversity Power List 2023-24, Sal has contributed to several BBC documentaries and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Through his deeply personal account, Sal shares vital lessons about leading change in complex systems:
One of Sal's most powerful insights is that "to lead in a values-led way and to lead in a true sense is hard because you have to make hard choices." His experiences demonstrate how maintaining your moral compass can guide you through the most challenging leadership decisions. Sal's new book, "True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" is available on Amazon and in all good bookshops. It offers a raw and honest account of his experiences fighting for change within the system while facing institutional resistance and personal challenges. Photo credit: Lensi Photography Buy Sal’s best-selling book, “True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" Subscribe to Sal’s newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/finding-your-true-north-7201671449361756160/ And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 19 Oct 2023 | Episode 55 - Sarah Hughes, Chief Executive of Mind on Leaders’ mental health | 00:56:01 | |
Leaders’ mental health special: part 2
We chat with Dr Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind
Almost 10% more leaders feel more burned out than in 2020. What can we do about this? In the second of our two part special on leaders and mental health, we were honoured to speak to the one and only Sarah Hughes, CEO of mental health charity Mind. We wanted to find out how leaders can look after their mental wellbeing during an exceptionally tough year, and how they can give the same level of care to their teams. Sarah tells us why having a peer group is a really important part of leaders’ wellbeing, whether the pandemic genuinely shifted the conversation about mental health and how people are processing the upheaval and trauma of the last three years. We also discuss why and how the charity sector needs to change- and some of the challenges that may be encountered along the way. Zoe and Paul also open the episode by sharing their experiences of how they manage their mental health.
Notes Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/ Third Sector podcast with Sarah Hughes https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/third-sector-podcast-sarah-hughes-mind-mental-health-role-charities/management/article/1819044 We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 16 Dec 2020 | Episode 10 - Paul de Gregorio, Founder at Rally - Digital trends for 2021 | 00:59:26 | |
In a special live festive recording, we were thrilled to chat to Paul de Gregorio, digital legend and Founder at Rally. Paul shared his thoughts on what the big digital changes of 2020 mean for charities, including the US election and developments in the UK sector and why digital mobilisation, online organising and fundraising need to be a key part of your strategy. He, Zoe and Paul Thomas also discussed the big tech trends for 2021 and how to start planning for them. Sign up for Paul’s excellent newsletter here.
Notes and links - ONS data on increase in digital retail sales https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/retailindustry/timeseries/j4mc/drsi International Broadcasting Trust’s report on fake news https://ibt.org.uk/reports/faking-it/ Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 17 Apr 2025 | Episode 83 - Melissa Ezechukwu, freelance digital consultant and strategist | 00:45:02 | |
Leading differently - The AI hype cycle & building inclusive tech
We chat with with Melissa Ezechukwu, digital strategist.
In this episode, Zoe and Paul navigate the current whirlwind of tech trends, starting with the viral AI action figure craze that has dominated LinkedIn feeds. They discuss the online phenomenon, questioning its true value and the potential environmental impact of such widespread use of generative AI. Is this a glimpse into AI's potential to solve global issues or just a fleeting moment of digital self-obsession? Then, they dive into a long-awaited and insightful conversation with Melissa Ezechukwu, a brilliant freelance digital consultant and strategist. With over 15 years of experience in the tech for good space, Mel shares her motivations for working with non-profits and socially conscious businesses, highlighting her passion for fairness and amplifying the voices of the underserved. Mel recounts her accidental journey into the digital world, a path that many in the industry will find relatable. Her personal story underscores the challenges and the resilience required, particularly for women of colour, in navigating the often-unseen biases within the tech industry. Zoe and Paul also explore with Mel the key digital trends impacting charities right now, including the double-edged sword of AI, the potential of automation, and the crucial role of data in creating joined-up and personalised user experiences. They question whether the traditional charity website is facing its twilight years and discuss the importance of thoughtful adoption of new technologies. The conversation tackles the vital issue of diversity and inclusion in tech, particularly in the development and deployment of AI. Mel shares her insights on the dangers of biased datasets and the urgent need for diverse voices in shaping the future of technology, drawing on her experience with organisations like Global Tech Advocates Black Women in Tech. In this episode, you'll hear about:
We hope you find this episode as thought-provoking and valuable as we did. Thank you for tuning in to Starts at the Top. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review on your favourite podcast platform – it truly helps us reach more leaders. Share this episode with a friend or colleague who you think would benefit from hearing these important conversations. Join Zoe and Paul again in a couple of weeks for another episode of Starts at the Top, where we continue to explore what it takes to lead differently.
Show notes Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 11 May 2023 | Episode 45 - Bruce Daisley, author of Fortitude, workplace culture expert, and podcaster | 00:49:16 | |
Why leaders need to rethink resilience
We chat with Bruce Daisley, author of Fortitude, workplace culture expert, and podcaster
We’re thrilled to open season 7 with a brilliant conversation with Bruce Daisley. Many of you will know Bruce as the author of Fortitude: The Myth of Resilience and the Secrets of Inner Strength (out now in paperback) and his previous book The Joy of Work. Bruce is a workplace culture expert and the host of the legendary podcast Eat Sleep Work Repeat. In Fortitude Bruce challenges the myths we’ve all heard about resilience, and asks if they’re really achieving their desired effect. Organisations invest time and money in resilience training. Schools aim to increase children’s resilience. Yet the data shows that these interventions aren’t always successful. Why is resilience seen as an individual, rather than a collective responsibility? How can leaders really help their teams develop inner strength? Are we doing it right? In this episode, Bruce explains why we need to flip the concept of resilience on its head and focus on the power of building communities in and outside the workplace. Fortitude is an especially timely read as he also discusses the impact of trauma and how we can help the people around us heal. This is a vital leadership skill given the events of the last 3 years. A huge thank you to Bruce for sharing his insights into what leaders need to do differently.
Fortitude: The Myth of Resilience and the Secrets of Inner Strength by Bruce Daisley is published by Penguin in paperback.
For more about Fortitude check out https://www.findfortitude.net/ Bruce has an excellent newsletter https://makeworkbetter.substack.com/ and podcast Eat Sleep Work Repeat You can buy the book on Hive - https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Bruce-Daisley/Fortitude--The-Myth-of-Resilience-and-the-Secrets-of-Inne/27169356
We also have two copies of Bruce’s book Fortitude to give away. To be in with a chance of winning sign up to our newsletter over at https://www.startsatthetop.co.uk/
We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit wwww.arvato.co.uk/WalesAirAmbulance
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 11 Apr 2024 | Episode 65 - Nikki Bell, Co-Founder of Fundraising Everywhere - Why we need to talk about grief in the workplace. | 01:03:33 | |
Why we need to talk about grief in the workplace
We chat with Nikki Bell, Co-Founder of Fundraising Everywhere
Bereavement will affect all of us in our lifetime. So why aren’t we talking about it more in the workplace? We explore this topic with Nikki Bell, co-founder of Fundraising Everywhere, in this episode of Starts At The Top. Last year she and the Fundraising Everywhere team lost a close friend and colleague, Mandi Hine-Conway. This is a brave and honest conversation about why we need to talk about grief more at work, and how to support colleagues who have lost someone. We’re very grateful to Nikki for being so candid and for her warm and open-hearted discussion of why and how we need to look after the people we work with better. Every conversation we’ve had with Nikki has been inspiring and life-affirming and this is no exception. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode is an open and honest conversation about grief and how leaders can best respond to death and grief in the workplace. If these are topics you would like to avoid at this time, please be kind to yourself and come back to this episode at a later date. In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss the latest AI developments.
Notes Fundraising Everywhere https://www.fundraisingeverywhere.com/ Tech news Microsoft’s new London AI Hub https://www.itpro.com/business/microsofts-new-london-ai-hub-is-another-huge-vote-of-confidence-in-the-uks-tech-sector Music artists take on AI https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-68717863 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 09 Nov 2023 | Episode 57 - Mathilda Della Torre, author and Founder of Conversations From Calais | 00:38:30 | |
How Conversations From Calais is bringing together art and activism We chat with Mathilda Della Torre, author of Conversations from Calais: Sharing Refugee Stories
When Mathilda Della Torre came home after visiting the refugee camps in Calais for the first time she thought, “I can’t look away from this.” And so she began documenting the conversations between volunteers and migrants from Calais, firstly on posters, which people began to put copies up of on streets all around the world, and then in her book, Conversations from Calais. These conversations are moving, heartfelt and capture the diversity of refugees’ lives. Della Torre’s book is a window into refugee and migrant’s stories, behind the tabloid headlines and culture wars we see on social media. As she says, it is an introduction into the topic, and the essays in the book from campaigners, artists and authors from Nish Kumar to Ai Weiwei to Yasmin Alibhai-Brown offer more experiences. Thank you to Mathilda Della Torre for an inspiring conversation. You can find out more about her book here: https://www.conversationsfromcalais.com/
Conversations from Calais book https://www.conversationsfromcalais.com/ Follow Conversations from Calais on: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conversationsfromcalais/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/conversationsfromcalais/ Twitter https://twitter.com/cfcalais Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 13 Jul 2022 | Episode 36 - Wincie Wong, Head of Services Workforce Technical Capability, NatWest | 00:56:14 | |
How NatWest are tackling the digital skills pipeline crisis
We speak to Wincie Wong, Head of Services Workforce Technical Capability, NatWest
According to FutureDotNow almost 10 million UK workers are missing fundamental digital skills needed for today’s workplace. Large organisations can make a big difference here, simply by skilling up their workforce. So what can we learn from them? We were thrilled to chat to Wincie Wong, Head of Services Workforce Technical Capability at Natwest about how she and her team are taking on the tech talent challenge at scale, retraining colleagues and thinking big about what the future of their organisation looks like. Wincie discusses why this work is only meaningful if it has inclusion at its heart, attracting more women and people from diverse backgrounds into careers in digital. She tells us how to support staff as they reskill, and shares what she has learned as co-founder of the NatWest Girls Can Code network and founding member of Tech She Can, a charity representing 230+ corporates working together to increase the number of women in technology roles in the UK through education. After a turbulent week in politics, Zoe and Paul discuss what this means for leadership and whether this means we need to rethink what power looks like, who we hand it to and how we hold leaders accountable.
Notes and links - Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 16 Jul 2020 | Episode 5 - Darshan Sanghrajka, Founder & CEO at Super Being Labs | 00:56:52 | |
In our Season 1 finale, we were so lucky to be joined by Darshan Sanghrajka, Founder & CEO at Super Being Labs.
We talked about what leaders can learn from stand up comedy, how to innovate during the crisis, getting comfortable with failure, why traditional leadership is over and how we can rebuild it, and what a digital first future could look like. We also discussed how to create more diverse teams. Finally, we chatted about cake. Zoe talks about The Charity Digital Skills Report and what she thinks it means for the sector, and she and Paul share their observations on how the arts and music industry are using digital to create new relationships with fans. Notes and links - The Charity Digital Skills Report http://report.skillsplatform.org/charity-digital-report-2020/ Nick Cave’s The Red Hand Files https://www.theredhandfiles.com/ Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 06 Jun 2024 | Episode 69 - Berry Cochrane, CEO of digital mobilisation agency, Forward Action | 00:49:06 | |
As the UK hurtles towards a momentous election, the digital landscape has become a fierce battleground where the fight for hearts and minds is being waged. In this crucial episode, we sit down with Berry Cochrane, CEO of digital mobilisation agency Forward Action, to explore how charities and organisations in the for good space can harness the power of digital to drive change and build people power at scale. With a wealth of experience from leading digital teams at Greenpeace and Amnesty International UK, Berry brings a unique perspective on what it takes to stand out in a crowded online space. She shares eye-opening insights on how organisations can craft creative campaigns that cut through the noise and prompt meaningful action, like Forward Action's impactful work on the Rwanda deportation flights. But as the election looms, the challenges are mounting. Berry dives deep into the pervasive issue of online misinformation and disinformation, offering practical strategies for how charities can prepare and protect their communities from the onslaught of fake news that threatens to drown out vital voices. In a world where traditional mobilisation tactics are losing their edge, Berry reveals the urgent need for organisations to innovate and adapt. She explores the untapped potential of digital organising to build volunteer power and shares how Forward Action is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of AI-powered campaigning. As the stakes couldn't be higher, this episode is a clarion call for progressive leaders to embrace the power of digital mobilisation. Berry challenges us to create meaningful calls to action that inspire people to become agents of change, reminding us that every click, share, and online action has the potential to shape the future of our society. Tune in to discover how you can navigate the digital minefield of this election year and emerge as a force for good. The time to mobilise is now – let's seize this moment and build a movement that will be felt for generations to come. In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through the latest AI election developments, including how these technologies are being used to target younger voters. Please note our interview with Berry was recorded before the UK election was announced.
Notes Find out more about Forward Action Tech news
TikTok users being fed misleading election news- BBC story https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1ww6vz1l81o Broadcasters cannot stop ‘deepfakes’ and misinformation on election day- Yahoo news https://uk.news.yahoo.com/broadcasters-cannot-stop-deepfakes-misinformation-121540189.html Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 14 Dec 2023 | Episode 60 - Kate Lee, CEO of Alzheimer’s Society | 01:03:33 | |
Why CEOs need to think like producers, not directors We speak to Kate Lee, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society
It's our final episode of 2023 and we are going out with a bang thanks to a festive cracker of an episode with the one and only Kate Lee, CEO of Alzheimer’s Society. Kate took over as CEO of the Alzheimer’s Society in March 2020. As if starting one of the charity’s sector’s biggest roles on the brink of the pandemic wasn’t enough, she was also determined to implement an ambitious programme of reform at the charity, improving culture, leadership and growth. Three years on, we sit down with Kate to reflect on what she has achieved, and her learnings. We discuss what’s changed, and what other leaders can learn from this. We loved Kate’s ideas on why CEOs need to reframe their roles, so that they act like producers, not directors. Kate also tells us how leaders need to take a new approach to leadership and power post lockdown, and why, and how, charities need to innovate and think differently about what their organisations, and their ambitions, should look like now. As Kate says, the world has changed since 2020, and we should be reinventing ourselves, not trying to build back to how things were before. We’re grateful to Kate for an energising and inspiring conversation. If you need the equivalent of a double Americano to make it through the last few days before the Christmas break you have come to the right place! We’ll be taking a break in January and will be back soon after with more episodes. See you in 2024!
Notes The Alzheimer’s Society https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/ Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 28 Oct 2020 | Episode 6 - Rhodri Davies, How charities can tackle big tech ethics | 00:57:28 | |
Welcome back! In our first episode of Season 2 we are thrilled to speak to Rhodri Davies, Head of Policy & Programme Director, Giving Thought at Charities Aid Foundation. We talked about how to create your own virtual watercooler when working remotely, how charities can navigate the ethics of big tech and the Facebook boycott, why charities need to take action on digital exclusion, fundraising trends and what the future of civil society could look like. Zoe and Paul talk digital skills and why leaders need to think like community managers.
Notes and links - RSA event with Bruce Daisley on remote working https://www.thersa.org/video/events/2020/10/making-remote-work-good-work CBI report on digital skills https://www.cbi.org.uk/articles/learning-for-life-funding-a-world-class-adult-education-system/ CAF’s Giving Thought podcast https://www.cafonline.org/about-us/blog-home/giving-thought/podcasts-from-giving-thought The Digital Human podcast from the BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01n7094 Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 11 Nov 2021 | Episode 24 - Kenneth Foreman and Steven Foster of London Marathon Events | 00:54:04 | |
In this episode we chat to Kenneth Foreman, Head of Charity Partnerships and Steven Foster, Director of Transformation at London Marathon Events.
How does one of the world’s most famous face-to-face fundraising events take on technology? Following the success of their virtual event last year the London Marathon team decided to embrace hybrid. What do their learnings mean for the sector? We were delighted to chat with Kenneth Foreman , Head of Charity Partnerships and Steven Foster Director of Transformation at London Marathon Events to find out more about how they tackled this challenge, and what this means for how charities can approach hybrid fundraising. This episode is a must-listen for any fundraisers or charity professionals who may be running low on energy as we enter the final mile of a tough year. Kenneth and Steven tell us how they were buoyed up by the extraordinary creativity and innovation they’ve seen fundraisers demonstrate during the pandemic, and have great advice for how to draw on these skills, and what this means for your wider digital transformation. Zoe and Paul discuss the carbon footprint of remote work including some worrying stats which will make you rethink scheduling another Zoom call. Notes and links - We discussed: RIBA’s tech carbon impact Wiki Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 06 Oct 2022 | Episode 37 - Autumn books for leaders and a chat with Trenton Moss | 00:30:51 | |
Autumn books for leaders
We recommend our favourite books and chat with the author of Human Powered, Trenton Moss.
Grab a coffee and head for your sofa. It's time to ease ourselves gently into a new season of Starts at the Top with our recommended new reads for leaders. We’ve rifled through our bedside tables to bring you a selection of the books we’ve loved reading over the summer, covering topics from a real-life Marvel superhero on the experience of being mixed race to how trauma can create the leaders of tomorrow, and why women are still taken less seriously than men. We also share a couple of our summer holiday reads. We then chat with Trenton Moss, bestselling author of ‘Human Powered’ about how to grow emotional intelligence in the workplace, enhance team performance and improve everyone’s experience of remote working. We’ll be back soon with more interviews with exciting guests as Season 6 gets going. Make sure you subscribe to wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss out.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 09 May 2024 | Episode 67 - Nels Abbey, broadcaster, satirist and author of ‘The Hip Hop MBA’ | 00:49:18 | |
Beats and the boardroom: what leaders can learn from hip hop
We chat to Nels Abbey, broadcaster, satirist and author of ‘The Hip Hop MBA’
What can organisations learn about leadership from the unlikeliest of teachers - hip hop's biggest moguls? On this thought-provoking episode, we're joined by writer, broadcaster, media executive and satirist Nels Abbey to break down the invaluable leadership insights found in his new book The Hip Hop MBA. From the book's origins after a chance London street encounter to unpacking why hip hop icons like Jay-Z, Missy Elliott and 50 Cent deserve to be studied alongside traditional business legends, Nels compellingly redefines the way we think about leadership success. We explore the resilience, decision-making skills, and sheer grit required for rap artists to beat the odds and build enduring empires. Nels shares priceless lessons from the paths of visionaries like Ice Cube walking away from a record deal and Suge Knight's tragic downfall after his ambition went unchecked. How have hip hop's greatest overcome adversity to display a leadership mastery that leaders should study? Nels argues that nurturing this same authentic, passionate, innovative mindset is exactly what we all need to escape the traditional, myopic view of what a leader should be. Get ready to have your preconceptions shattered as Nels uses hip hop's most controversial and unlikely success stories to teach an urgent masterclass in courageous, forward-thinking leadership. You'll never see the boardroom the same way again. In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through what’s new in the world of AI.
Notes Nels Abbey’s new book https://canongate.co.uk/books/3972-the-hip-hop-mba-lessons-in-cut-throat-capitalism-from-raps-moguls/ Follow Nels on social media: https://twitter.com/nelsabbey?lang=en https://www.instagram.com/nelsabbey/
Tech news AI and the Met Gala https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-68968708 Open AI releases Deep Fake detector https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/07/technology/openai-deepfake-detector.html Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 19 Sep 2024 | Episode 74 - Alina Addison, author of The Audacity Spectrum | 00:48:38 | |
From Authenticity to Audacity: Alina Addison's Blueprint for Purpose-Led Leadership
We chat to Alina Addison, author of ‘The Audacity Spectrum: Leading with Care, Courage and Non-Conformity’ In our latest Starts at the Top episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alina Addison, author of "The Audacity Spectrum" and founder of Adaptaa. Alina's take on leadership is bold and refreshing. She challenges the idea that leaders are often pigeonholed as "too much" or "not enough", instead encouraging us to embrace our quirks and lead authentically. We covered quite a bit of ground, including:
Whether you're grappling with how to lead differently, or simply curious about new approaches to leadership, there's plenty to chew on here. We were particularly struck by Alina's simple yet powerful advice: take a moment to breathe, say 'thank you' daily, and don't be afraid to take that first step towards change. Do give it a listen. We think you'll find it a thought-provoking way to spend 45 minutes of your day. In tech news, Zoe and Paul discuss why diversity in the tech workforce is getting less funding and airtime.
Notes More about Alina’s book ‘The Audacity Spectrum’ https://profilebooks.com/2024/08/19/the-audacity-spectrum-read-an-extract/ Information about Adaptaa https://adaptaa.co.uk/ BBC story about women in tech groups and diversity https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7858w2yj75o Our episode with Maggie Philbin https://www.startsatthetop.co.uk/episodes/episode13-maggiephilbin-teentech And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 20 May 2022 | Episode 32 - Laura Dewis, COO of Full Fact | 00:47:38 | |
How leaders can tackle misinformation - we chat to Laura Dewis, Chief Operating Officer at Full Fact
According to Ofcom’s latest research more than a third of internet users are unaware that online content might be false or biased. Creating and sharing content is such a huge part of what organisations and leaders do, so how can you make sure the information you’re sharing is accurate and truthful? Guiding us through these tricky issues is Laura Dewis who is Chief Operating Officer at Full Fact, a charity of independent fact checkers and campaigners who find, expose and counter the harm caused by bad information shared by anyone in public debate. Laura takes us behind the scenes at Full Fact, explaining how they operate on the front line of misinformation and disinformation. Laura’s career has included roles with the BBC and the Open University, and she shares with us what she’s learned about using digital to achieve impact at scale, and how tech can increase inclusion. Zoe and Paul summarise the tech news stories that have caught their eye, including the social media storm surrounding the Amber Heard and Johnny Depp courtcase, and whether being cancelled has stopped Mumford and Sons’ former banjo player from picking up his phone (or banjo) again.
Notes and links - Help Full Fact by getting involved here:
Tech new stories:
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/may/15/johnny-depp-amber-heard-defamation-trial-social-media
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 16 Nov 2023 | Episode 58 - Samuel Kasumu, author of The Power of the Outsider | 00:46:04 | |
Can being an outsider be an advantage? We speak with Samuel Kasumu, author of The Power of the Outsider Samuel Kasumu is an award-winning social entrepreneur, commentator, and strategist. He was also the most senior black advisor in Boris Johnson’s government until he left his role in April 2021. During his time in Downing Street, he became aware that he was an outsider. And this became the inspiration for his new book, The Power of the Outsider. Feeling like an outsider is an aspect of inclusion that hasn’t been talked about often enough, and Kasumu wants to change that through his book. We chat to him about the experience of being an outsider and how it can be a source of strength. We also talk about what leaders can do to make everyone feel accepted. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, and leaders who want to create a sense of belonging in their organisations.
Show Notes The Power of The Outsider book https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/samuel-kasumu/the-power-of-the-outsider/9781529396911/ Zoe’s blog about book recommendations https://zoeamar.com/2023/11/15/books-recommendations/ Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 02 Feb 2023 | Episode 42 - Tree Hall, CEO at Charity IT Leaders | 00:58:52 | |
What it’s really like to be a neurodivergent CEO
We chat with Tree Hall, CEO of Charity IT Leaders It’s estimated that 1 in 7 people in the UK is neurodiverse. So what is it like to be a neurodiverse leader? Tree Hall, CEO of Charity IT Leaders, was diagnosed as autistic at the age of 47. In this very personal episode, she shares her story, exploring what autism means to her, and how it has shaped her life. Tree has become a staunch advocate of how everyone needs to understand autism and other neurodivergence. She is on a mission to make the workplace more inclusive and supportive of neurodivergent individuals. We’re very grateful to Tree for sharing such an open, honest account of the experience of being a neurodiverse leader. We discuss how leaders can better understand what being neurodiverse means, and how improving the workplace with this in mind will help improve it for everyone. Zoe and Paul discuss the latest leadership and tech news including the director general of the CBI’s comments about working from home and Jeremy Hunt’s call for more over 50s to rejoin the workplace.
Notes: BBC story about over 50s in the workplace Twitter thread about the CBI’s comments on remote work (original story on the BBC is here). Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
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| 23 Apr 2021 | Episode 16 - Dr Wanda Wyporska - Leadership rebooted | 00:45:17 | |
We meet Dr Wanda Wyporska, Executive Director at The Equality Trust How have you changed up your leadership style during the pandemic? When Dr Wanda Wyporska, Executive Director at The Equality Trust agreed to come on the podcast we were keen to find out about the journey she’s been on over the last year, and what she’s learned from it. We chat to Wanda about how leaders can bring their whole self to work but hold onto a work-life balance, why the sector needs to make diversity a priority and how charities can take advantage of recruiting a greater geographical range of talent when working remotely. We also talk about social media as Wanda is currently the top CEO in the Social CEOs awards. Wanda tells us why leaders need to listen to opinions outside their social media echo chamber, and how a sarcastic tweet led to her charity winning funding. Finally, she shares how she dealt with trolling after appearing on Question Time. Zoe and Paul also discuss why the Super League plans feel like a failed digital transformation. Please note that this episode was recorded before UK clubs withdrew from the plan. Notes and links - Wired article on the Super League https://www.wired.co.uk/article/european-super-league-attention-economy Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 06 Jul 2023 | Episode 50 - Soma Sara, author, founder and CEO of Everyone’s Invited | 00:57:49 | |
Toxic Masculinity in the Workplace: what every leader needs to Know
We speak with Soma Sara, author, founder, and CEO of Everyone’s Invited
72% of women have either encountered or witnessed inappropriate behaviour from male colleagues at work. A third (32%) of women say their careers have been affected by sexual harassment. What’s caused this? And what do leaders need to do about it? Soma Sara, author, founder, and CEO of Everyone’s Invited joins us to answer these questions. In June 2020, Soma Sara founded Everyone's Invited, an anti-rape movement organisation that allows survivors of rape culture to share their stories through testimonies anonymously on their website and Instagram profile. Soma was included in the BBC 100 global list of inspiring and influential women of 2021 and won the 2021 Harper's Bazaar Activist of the Year award. Soma shares with us what leaders need to know about misogyny in and outside the workplace and how to tackle it. We discuss the many forms that toxic masculinity can take, including the ones that may be hiding in plain sight. And we talk about the role that we can all, including leaders, play in challenging toxic masculinity, creating safer spaces and more inclusive cultures that not only benefit women but help everyone. All of these themes are explored in Soma’s book, also called Everyone’s Invited, which is out now in paperback. This is a frank, eye-opening discussion that some may find shocking - but you’ll be glad you listened. Trigger warning - this episode contains references to themes of sexual assault and rape, which some individuals may find distressing.
Everyone’s Invited https://www.everyonesinvited.uk/ Everyone’s Invited book by Soma Sara https://www.everyonesinvited.uk/book Stats above are taken from https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1797842/third-womens-careers-affected-sexual-harassment-study-finds We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website.
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 03 Jul 2020 | Episode 3 - Louise Macdonald, CEO, and Kirsten Urquhart, Digital Services Director at Young Scot | 01:00:15 | |
This week Zoe and Paul speak to Louise Macdonald, CEO, and Kirsten Urquhart, Digital Services Director at Young Scot.
Relationships between CEOs and digital leaders can be a marriage made in heaven - but they can also go wrong. Louise and Kirsten have achieved huge amounts together at Young Scot and we wanted to find out what makes their relationship tick. They told us how they put young people front and centre of what they do, getting digital skills onto boards, why staff need to be empowered to innovate and why digital offers reason for hope in dark times. In their roundup of tech news, Zoe and Paul talk about video call overload and the Facebook boycott campaign.
Notes and links – Young Scot https://young.scot/ Arundhathi Roy article ‘The pandemic is a portal’ https://www.ft.com/content/10d8f5e8-74eb-11ea-95fe-fcd274e920ca Video call overload https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/05/zoom-fatigue-video-conferencing-coronavirus/ Facebook boycott campaign https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-53225139 Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!
Editing by Paul Thomas and production from Alexey Sibikin Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 18 Mar 2021 | Episode 13 - Maggie Philbin, CEO of TeenTech and broadcaster | 00:57:53 | |
Maggie Philbin, CEO of TeenTech, is one of our heroes. If you work in digital today you may well have been inspired to do so by her groundbreaking work on the BBC’s Tomorrow’s World. We talked to Maggie about how TeenTech is inspiring a new generation of school children to engage with technology, how the education system needs to change to grow digital skills, and how schools have tackled remote learning. We also heard about Maggie’s journey as a pioneering woman in tech. Zoe and Paul discuss the latest digital news and their book recommendations. Notes and links - TeenTech is running a series of online events to help grow STEM skills. The Digital 2021 report from We Are Social and Hootsuite can be found here - https://wearesocial.com/digital-2021 Brunswick Group's report on Connected Leadership can be found here - https://www.brunswickgroup.com/perspectives/connected-leadership/ Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
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| 18 Dec 2020 | Episode 11 - Dama Sathianathan, Partner at Bethnal Green Ventures | 00:36:26 | |
We were thrilled to speak to Dama Sathianathan, a partner at Bethnal Green Ventures, Europe’s leading early-stage tech for good VC. Dama discusses how Bethnal Green Ventures is pioneering new tech for good projects to solve social and environmental challenges, how we can create more collaboration in digital and why diversity is vital for better decision making and innovation.
Zoe and Paul discuss emerging news stories about big tech from the UK and US. Could Facebook be facing a potential breakup?
Notes and links - Bethnal Green Ventures https://bethnalgreenventures.com/ WorkerTech partnership https://bethnalgreenventures.com/partners/resolution-trust/ Digital Markets Unit story from The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/nov/27/digital-markets-unit-powers-new-uk-tech-regulator Potential Facebook break up story from The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/dec/11/us-government-break-up-facebook-long-overdue Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 14 Nov 2024 | Episode 77 - John May, Chief Executive of Cats Protection | 00:53:13 | |
Slow-Burn Leadership: Why The Best Change Takes Time
We chat with John May, CEO of Cats Protection Leading a charity with 1,000 staff and 10,000 volunteers requires a delicate balance of co-creation, patience, and cultural transformation. In this episode, John May shares insights from his role as Chief Executive of Cats Protection, discussing how to create lasting organisational change and foster meaningful partnerships between staff and volunteers. At the heart of our conversation with John are powerful insights about creating sustainable change in large organisations:
John shares a refreshing perspective on leadership, emphasising that sustainable change often takes longer than we initially think and requires patience, gentle persuasion rather than imposition, and genuine co-creation with all stakeholders. Digital transformation isn't just about tech - it's about knowing when to build specialist teams, when to distribute expertise, and crucially, when your organisation is ready for change. Zoe and Paul also discuss what Trump’s election win tells us about how leadership is changing.
Notes Cats Protection https://www.cats.org.uk/ News stories https://iandunt.substack.com/p/scattered-thoughts-on-the-worst-of https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-musk-government-spending-audit-commission-b2607847.html Find out more about the upcoming changes to The Charity Digital Code of Practice. And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 12 Jan 2023 | Episode 40 - Louise Lai, Chief Client and Transformation Officer at TPXimpact | 00:50:11 | |
How to help your organisation hit refresh
In our latest episode, we chat with Lou Lai, Chief Client and Transformation Officer at TPXimpact. The new year can mean new ways of doing things. And we’ve got just the episode for you if your organisation needs reinvention in 2023. Lou Lai, Chief Client and Transformation Officer at TPXimpact, knows all about transformation. We begin with her own story of a leader, and how she changed her career from charity to agency side, staying focused on the impact she wanted to have. Lou guides us through how organisations should approach transformation. We discuss why it’s necessary to take a long hard look at your governance, leadership, and approach to inclusion if you want to see real change. We loved talking to Lou. Her interview will give you the energy and ideas to begin January on the right note. Paul and Zoe also round up the latest tech news. What does big tech cutting back on staff and office space mean for the rest of us?
Notes: LinkedIn : Tech giants downsize office space Reuters: Salesforce announces plan to cut 10% of workforce From Lou’s interview: TPXimpact FemMentored
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Transcripts also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 13 Mar 2025 | Episode 81 - Srabani Sen - Srabani Sen OBE, Founder and CEO of Full Colour | 00:58:54 | |
What Leaders Need to Know: Navigating DEI in Today's Climate
We chat to Srabani Sen OBE, Founder and CEO of Full Colour Are DEI efforts under threat? In a world where political winds shift and extreme views gain traction, how do leaders champion inclusion? What’s really happening in organisations on the ground? Join Zoe Amar and Paul Thomas as they dive deep with Srabani Sen, founder and CEO of Full Colour, in this powerful and timely episode. What you'll discover:
Show Notes Find out more about Full Colour Zoe and Paul discussed: Guardian article on AI and parenting https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/mar/01/parents-children-artificial-intelligence Tim Cook episode https://www.startsatthetop.co.uk/episodes/tag/Tim+Cook Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 16 Apr 2021 | Episode 15 - Dana Kohava Segal - The post pandemic leadership playbook | 00:48:27 | |
The post pandemic leadership playbook
We chat to Dana Kohava Segal, international fundraising and management consultant.
What should leaders prioritise as they plan for the future? We were delighted to speak to Dana Kohava Segal, international fundraising and management consultant, whose breadth of work across the sector means that she has unique insights into what leaders’ blueprint for a post vaccine world looks like. Dana discusses how charity leadership has changed during the pandemic, her hopes and fears for the sector on the road to recovery, the role that digital plays in this and why inclusion needs to be a major priority for leaders in the wake of #NotJustNCVO. Zoe and Paul chew over Nick Clegg’s Medium essay, PwC’s new report findings (almost 40% of workers think their job will be obsolete within five years), Rio Ferdinand’s insights on leadership and how to make the perfect simnel cake. Notes and links - Nick Clegg’s Medium Essay PwC’s new report Hopes and Fears 2021 Rio Ferdinand on The Diary of a CEO podcast Microsoft’s acquisition of Nuance Shimrit Janes’ LinkedIn post about reflections on the future Please follow us on Twitter @startsatthetop1 Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Beth Donkin and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 03 Oct 2024 | Episode 75 - Mark Atkinson - Director General for the Royal British Legion | 00:55:59 | |
Rethinking Charity Leadership: Bold Strategies for a New Era
We speak to Mark Atkinson, Director General for the Royal British Legion Join us for an insightful conversation with Mark Atkinson, Director General of the Royal British Legion, as he reflects on his first 100 days and beyond in this pivotal role. In this game-changing episode, Mark shares fresh perspectives from his transition to the Royal British Legion in January 2024, tackling the big questions facing the sector:
Drawing on his experiences at the Royal British Legion, RNID, and Scope, Mark offers a candid look at:
Mark discusses how charities can maintain their focus on evidence and delivery while carving out time to think creatively about the future, even in challenging times. Whether you're a trustee, CEO, emerging leader, or passionate about the future of charities, this episode offers invaluable insights into the realities of leading major charities through periods of significant change. Tune in now to challenge your assumptions and join the conversation about why, and how, the future of the sector needs to look different to the present. Zoe and Paul also discuss National Podcast Day the week we launch our 75th episode!
The Royal British Legion https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/
And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 08 Jun 2022 | Episode 33 - George Osbourn, Head of Campaigns and Communications for Ukie | 00:59:27 | |
The UK video games industry is worth £7.16 billion. So what does your organisation need to know about the opportunities and risks it offers? This week we chat to George Osborn, Head of Campaigns and Communications for UKIE, the UK video games industry trade body, about inclusion in the gaming industry, how charities and fundraisers can tap into the potential of gaming, and what the state of gaming tells us about wider digital trends. Zoe and Paul also talk about the Runnymede Trust’s report on women of colour in the workplace, and whether we’re too dependent on the algorithms of music streaming services.
Notes and links -
News stories:
https://www.runnymedetrust.org/publications/broken-ladders
https://pitchfork.com/features/article/the-woes-of-being-addicted-to-streaming-services/
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios and Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 15 Aug 2024 | Episode 72 - Tim Cook, founder of AIConfident talks to us about Ethical AI | 01:01:26 | |
Ethical AI: Charting the Course for Responsible Leadership
In our latest episode of Starts at the Top, we explore the ethical frontiers of AI with Tim Cook, founder of AIConfident and former head of the UK government's Office for Artificial Intelligence. As AI revolutionises our world, Tim offers invaluable insights for leaders navigating this new landscape:
Drawing from his experience in government, Tim shares reflections on leading through turbulent times and the importance of maintaining perspective in high-pressure roles. Tim discusses AI's potential to influence democratic processes worldwide through deep fakes and misinformation. However, he remains optimistic about AI's capacity to solve complex societal problems when used ethically and responsibly. This episode is essential listening for everyone, whether you're just starting to explore AI or you're already well-versed in the technology. Whether AI excites or concerns you, Tim offers practical strategies for understanding its impact and using it ethically in your organisation. Learn how to foster a culture of responsible innovation and empower your team to embrace AI's potential while being mindful of its challenges. Paul and Zoe also discuss the role of social media in the UK riots and what this means for organisations using these platforms. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will challenge your perceptions and inspire you to lead with confidence and integrity in the AI era.
Notes Find out more about AIConfident https://www.aiconfident.co.uk/ UK Riots Third Sector article https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/zoe-amar-uk-riots-turning-point-sector-fights-racism/management/article/1883476 News Agents’ episode about the far right on and offline https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/inside-the-cult-of-the-far-right/id1640878689?i=1000664840838 And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (.srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 03 Nov 2021 | Episode 23 - Raj Burman and Nowar Rahmouni of Techfugees | 00:45:23 | |
How technology can support refugees
We speak to Raj Burman (CEO) and Nowar Rahmouni (social media community builder and writer) of Techfugees. Every 10 seconds someone becomes a refugee. 82.4 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced by the end of 2020. This is forecast to grow to 1 billion people due to climate change over the next 3 decades. So how can technology help? During the recent refugee crisis in Afghanistan we came across Techfugees, a nonprofit who develop technology “for and with” displaced people. Raj Burman (CEO) and Nowar Rahmouni (social media community builder and writer) discuss how refugees have many skills, including resilience, entrepreneurship and the ability to adapt to change quickly. It’s those personal qualities which mean they have much to offer the world of digital. And if you’re wondering how your leadership style needs to evolve with so much around us all in flux, Techfugees’ decentralised model with ‘servant leadership’ at its heart indicates what the nonprofit of the future may look like. Paul and Zoe discuss how their use of social media has changed in the light of more revelations about big tech and have a question for you about the environmental impact of hybrid working. Notes and links - We discussed:
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production from Syren Studios Image credit: Syren Studios Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music | |||
| 16 Jul 2021 | Episode 21 - R. Michael Hendrix, co-author of Two Beats Ahead | 01:04:09 | |
In our author special we meet R.Michael Hendrix, co-author of Two Beats Ahead. For our season finale, Paul and Zoe discuss the books that will help you reset over the summer. Top of our list was Two Beats Ahead by Panos Panay and R. Michael Hendrix, a fascinating read about what we can learn from musicians, ranging from Beyonce to Pharrell Williams and David Bowie, about creativity and innovation. Yet it’s also a book about leadership and how to bring teams together to do incredible things. There is so much in this book that represents the modus operandi that leaders need to forge fresh ideas and embed new ways of working in volatile times. We’re giving away a copy of the book so listen out for the details of how to win in the episode! Zoe and Paul also review what’s been on their summer reading list so far, including A World Without Email by Cal Newport, The Reset: Ideas to Change How We Work and Live by Elizabeth Uviebinene, How to Write One Song by Jeff Tweedy and Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro. In addition, Zoe discusses what the findings from The Charity Digital Skills Report mean for the charity sector. That’s it from us for Season 3. Thanks for listening. We’ll see you in the autumn for Season 4! | |||
| 05 Jun 2025 | Episode 85 - Trevor Gordon, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Save the Children UK | 01:03:13 | |
How Save The Children UK is leading digital change in a volatile world
We chat to Trevor Gordon, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Save the Children UK
This week we are chuffed to bits to bring you a brand new episode featuring an insightful chat with the brilliant Trevor Gordon, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Save the Children UK. Trevor is an award-winning leader in customer-centric digital technology and transformation and recently returned to the charity sector. Get ready for a fascinating discussion on:
Paul and Zoe discuss the latest, eye-opening insights from Microsoft's 2025 Work Trend Index and the Anthropic CEO's bold predictions about AI's impact on jobs. 2025 is the year to get serious. Don't miss this inspiring conversation and Trevor's top cocktail recommendations for a well-deserved end-of-week treat!
Show notes The Microsoft 2025 Work Trend Index Anthropic's CEO about AI's impact on the job market. Please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.
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| 05 Oct 2023 | Episode 54 - Ben Lindsay OBE, founder of Power The Fight | 01:00:04 | |
Leaders’ mental health special: part 1 Ben Lindsay OBE is founder of Power The Fight, an award-winning charity which tackles violence affecting young people. 35% of leaders report that they feel stressed at work. More than 50% of managers feel burned out. In our day jobs, we speak to leaders everyday who are dealing with huge pressures. We’ve been there ourselves with our own mental health challenges. So we thought it was high time we devoted two special episodes to leaders and mental health. In the first part of our special we are joined by Ben Lindsay OBE, founder of Power The Fight. Through his work Ben has learned how to take a trauma informed approach, and is a big advocate of therapy for his staff, and himself. We chat to Ben about how leaders can look after their mental health, how to deal with burnout and how he keeps going when dealing with a hugely challenging job tackling violence affecting young people. This is a raw and honest conversation about the challenges of leadership and how leaders can take care of themselves and their teams. We’ll be back next week for the second part of our leaders’ mental health special featuring Dr Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind.
Notes Power The Fight https://www.powerthefight.org.uk/ We are delighted that this episode of Starts At The Top is sponsored by Arvato CRM Solutions. Arvato CRM Solutions designs and delivers award-winning customer service, business process outsourcing (BPO), and digital and intelligent automation solutions for some of the world’s most respected brands, as well as innovative charity and public sector clients. They partner with clients to help them define their customer experience and transformation strategies by implementing the right technology, people and processes to improve their customer journey, while driving new efficiencies and helping them prepare for the future. To find out more about how Arvato CRM Solutions could help an organisation like yours and to receive a free no-obligation chat visit their website. Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (.srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file) Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | Episode 76 - Said Dajani, Head of Digital at Diabetes UK | 00:51:49 | |
Digital Transformation, Influence & the Power of "Nosiness"
We chat to Said Dajani, Head of Digital at Diabetes UK Digital transformation isn't just about tech - it's about knowing when to build specialist teams, when to distribute expertise, and crucially, when your organisation is ready for change. In this episode, Said Dajani shares insights from his 11-year journey as Head of Digital at Diabetes UK, discussing how to navigate organisational change and create innovative solutions in the charity sector. Said shares practical wisdom about leading digital change in large organisations, including:
The episode explores Said's experience of evolving from leading a centralised digital team, to fostering digital expertise across the organisation. His insights on timing, relationship building and organisational understanding offer valuable lessons for leaders managing similar transitions. Zoe and Paul also discuss the news about changes to The Charity Digital Code of Practice.
Notes Diabetes UK https://www.diabetes.org.uk/ Listening Lab https://www.listeninglab.co.uk/ Find out more about the upcoming changes to The Charity Digital Code of Practice.
And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear! Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music Full transcript of this episode (srt file) Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
Transcripts are also available through your podcast app. | |||