The Charity Changemakers Podcast dives deep into the world of non-profit leadership. Join us as we interview the CEOs and directors who are making a real impact in our communities. Each episode unveils the journeys that led these passionate individuals to the third sector. We explore the inspiring stories behind their charities, the challenges they navigate, and the exciting opportunities they're tackling. Get ready to be motivated by the power of giving and discover how you can get involved in creating positive change.
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Season 3 | E1 Ben Drabble on why job sharing might be the smartest charity leadership move
Saison 3 · Épisode 1
jeudi 12 février 2026 • Durée 43:39
In this episode of the Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam is joined by Ben Drabble, Chief Executive of Train, to explore a refreshingly honest charity career journey - from international mission, to fundraising leadership, to local youth work on his doorstep.
Ben shares how he stepped into his first Director role through a pure job share model - one inbox, one calendar, total trust - and why job sharing can be an incredibly effective (and often overlooked) way of opening up senior leadership to people with caring responsibilities.
Together, Adam and Ben unpack:
What a pure job share really looks like at Director level
Why job shares have such a high success rate when done well
The leadership growth that comes from shared responsibility and constant feedback
Moving from a large, international charity to leading a small local organisation
Taking a £20k pay cut to gain lifestyle, alignment, and joy in work
Why mission alone is not enough if you don’t enjoy the day-to-day
The danger of confusing aptitude with true career alignment
Ben also reflects candidly on leadership development, career pivots, learning later in life, and why happiness can’t sit permanently on the far side of your next promotion.
This is a thoughtful, grounded conversation for anyone navigating senior leadership, considering flexible working, or wrestling with what “success” really looks like in a charity career.
Takeaways
Career journey
Job sharing
Networking
Fundraising
Youth work Leadership Transition
Mission Alignment
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Career Journey
05:59 Impact of Gap Year Programs
12:45 Building Professional Networks
20:09 Practicalities of Job Sharing
29:19 Transition to Chief Executive Role
41:16 Lessons in Leadership and Mission Alignment
S2 | Ep15 David Knott on AI in charity funding, building resilient communities, and leadership insights
Saison 2 · Épisode 15
jeudi 9 octobre 2025 • Durée 44:16
In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with David Knott, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Community Fund — the UK’s largest grant-maker, awarding more than £700 million last year to over 12,000 community projects.
David reflects on his career across public service, including time in the Prime Minister’s office, and shares what he’s learned since stepping into the charity sector. The conversation dives into the future of funding, from how AI could streamline grant applications to why community resilience and adaptability are more important than ever.
He also opens up about the realities of leadership — the isolating moments, the need for support networks, and the lessons he’d pass on to his younger self.
Whether you’re leading a charity, applying for grants, or curious about the changing role of the sector, this is a must-listen episode packed with insights.
👉 To find out how you can apply for National Lottery Community Fund support — especially for environmental projects — visit: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
Key takeaways
The National Lottery Community Fund makes a grant every eight minutes
Community resilience is central to tackling today’s challenges
AI could transform the way charities apply for funding — but it must keep the human touch
Charities play a powerful role in shaping public policy
Leadership in the sector can feel isolating — but support is out there
Moving from government to charity demands a fresh approach to leadership
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to David Knott and the National Lottery Community Fund
08:19 – David’s journey into the charity sector
S 1 | Ep 8 – Don Esson on levelling up your leadership in the charity sector
Saison 1 · Épisode 8
jeudi 1 août 2024 • Durée 54:53
In this episode, we embark on an inspiring journey with Don Esson, the dynamic Director of Partnerships and Development at Spurgeons UK.
Having made a significant transition from the fast-paced commercial world to the profoundly rewarding realm of youth work and international development, Don shares his
unique perspective on leadership, team building, and creating lasting social impact.
Don leadership journey is a testament to the power of combining formal qualifications, self-learning, and mentorship. He's levelled up his leadership game by blending an MBA with hands-on experience and insights from others. His story shows that leadership is a lifelong pursuit, requiring a diverse learning
approach.
Discover how Don has successfully navigated the complexities of building high-performing teams across diverse sectors. Gain valuable insights into fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that empowers individuals to reach their full potential.
Through candid conversation, Don unveils practical strategies for effective leadership development, including navigating the challenges and opportunities of remote team management.
As a key driver of fundraising initiatives, Don offers invaluable expertise on innovative approaches to securing sustainable funding. Learn how Spurgeons UK has adapted to the evolving philanthropic landscape while maintaining a
steadfast commitment to its mission.
Beyond the practical advice, this episode delves into the broader challenges and opportunities facing the charity sector. Don shares his thoughts on the importance of collaboration, impact measurement, and building strong
partnerships to address complex social issues.
Whether you're a seasoned non-profit professional, aspiring leader, or simply passionate about making a difference, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Tune in for a captivating conversation that explores the power of human connection, the importance of purpose-driven work, and the potential for positive change.
S 1 | Ep 12 – Claire Walsh on training, mentorship and the importance of authentic leadership
Saison 1 · Épisode 12
jeudi 29 août 2024 • Durée 53:21
In this episode of the Charity Changemakers Podcast, we are joined by Claire Walsh, Director of Income Generation and Marketing at Crohn's and Colitis UK.
Claire takes us on a journey through her career in the charity sector, from her early days in Singapore to her current leadership role.
She opens up about the significant impact mentors have had on her professional growth, and how continuous learning and seeking out experts have been instrumental in her success.
Claire also reflects on the transition from hands-on fundraising to strategic leadership, highlighting the challenges and rewards that come with it. She emphasises the enduring importance of personal connections and storytelling in her work, even in an increasingly digital world.
Additionally, Claire shares how Crohn's and Colitis UK navigated the transformative period of the COVID-19 pandemic and the exciting changes that lie ahead for the organisation.
This episode offers valuable insights into the value of mentorship and continuous learning in career development, the challenges and rewards of transitioning from hands-on fundraising to strategic leadership, the importance of personal connections and storytelling in the charity sector, how Crohn's and Colitis UK is evolving and adapting to meet the needs of its community, and insights into Claire's leadership style and advice for aspiring senior leaders.
Listen to the full episode to hear Claire's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into the charity sector.
Visit the Crohn's & Colitis UK website - https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/- to learn more about their work, check the symptom checker or explore how you can get involved.
S 1 | Ep 14 – Chris Bailey on building an authentic and values-driven organisation
Saison 1 · Épisode 14
jeudi 12 septembre 2024 • Durée 49:48
In this captivating podcast episode, Chris Bailey, CEO of the Sheffield United Foundation, takes us on a journey through his 13 years in the charity and the remarkable growth of the
foundation.
With candid insights, Chris shares his belief in the power of
authenticity, values alignment, and investing in the development of his team.
He reveals that these principles have been pivotal in shaping the foundation's success and fostering a culture of collaboration and impact.
Chris also delves into the complexities of leading a charity associated with a high-profile football club.
He acknowledges that the Sheffield United brand can be both a blessing and a curse in recruitment. While it attracts passionate individuals who connect with the club's values, it can also present challenges in finding the right fit for
certain roles. Navigating these dynamics requires careful consideration and an understanding of the target audience.
At its core, the Sheffield United Community Foundation is committed to making a real difference in the lives of individuals across the community. Through a diverse range of programmes focused on education, employability, health and wellbeing, accessibility and inclusion, and sport and physical activity, the foundation tackles some of the most
pressing social issues.
Chris emphasises the importance of partnerships in
achieving these goals, working hand-in-hand with organisations across different sectors to deliver initiatives that have a lasting impact.
The foundation's strong ties with local authorities, schools, colleges, and community organisations are testament to its dedication to collaboration and community engagement.
S 1 | Ep 13 – Laura Read from retail to conservation and the power of volunteering
Saison 1 · Épisode 13
jeudi 5 septembre 2024 • Durée 46:39
In this insightful episode, Laura, the CEO of Marwell Wildlife, takes us through her fascinating career journey, transitioning from a commercial retail background to the charity sector.
Laura’s story is a powerful reminder of how transferable skills can be effectively applied across different industries, demonstrating that experience in one field can bring unique value to another.
Laura delves into her motivation for making the switch, driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful difference.
She highlights the rewarding nature of working in the charity sector, where the focus is not just on profits but on creating positive change.
As CEO of Marwell Wildlife, Laura oversees a diverse range of work that extends far beyond the walls of the zoo.
She discusses Marwell’s ambitious conservation projects, which include initiatives within the UK as well as in-situ conservation efforts in North Africa and Bhutan. These projects underscore the organisation’s commitment to global wildlife preservation and the critical role charities play in protecting endangered species and ecosystems.
In addition to conservation, Laura touches on the crucial business aspects of running a charity, particularly the
importance of diversifying income streams. She stresses the need for financial sustainability, highlighting how balancing the books is essential to ensure that the charity can continue its vital work.
Laura also offers valuable advice for those interested in the charity sector, advocating for early involvement in
volunteering and trustee roles. These experiences, she explains, provide invaluable insights into governance and can pave the way for a fulfilling career in the sector.
S 1 | Ep 10 – Helen Denny from freelancer to CEO & introducing innovative ways of working
Saison 1 · Épisode 10
jeudi 15 août 2024 • Durée 53:08
Ever wondered how to blend your passion for social impact with the flexibility of freelance life? Join us as we delve deeper into the extraordinary career path of Helen Denny, the dynamic Chief Executive of The Melting Pot.
Helen's story is one of evolution and empowerment, beginning with her early days as a volunteer and culminating in her bold leap into entrepreneurship with her own business championing flexible work.
The book Helen refers to in the Pod is ‘The Go-Giver’ by Bob Burg & John David Mann.
Discover the pivotal moments that led her to take the helm at The Melting Pot, a centre for social innovation, and how she's fearlessly driving social change through innovative practices like the four-day workweek.
Gain valuable insights on leadership, maintaining work-life balance, and scaling social impact in the ever-evolving charity sector.
Helen's candid advice on setting boundaries and prioritising self-care will resonate with anyone striving to make a meaningful difference in the world without burning out.
Whether you're a seasoned charity professional or just starting your journey, Helen's story is sure to ignite your passion and inspire you to forge your own path to
success.
Tune in and be empowered!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
03:47 Journey into the Charity Sector
11:14 Transition to Freelance Work
S2 | E4 – Raakhi Shah on empowering women and leading through crisis
Saison 2 · Épisode 4
jeudi 10 avril 2025 • Durée 45:43
In this episode of Charity Changemakers, we’re joined by Raakhi Shah, CEO of The Circle – a global feminist organisation founded by singer and activist Annie Lennox. Raakhi shares her inspiring journey through the charity sector, starting with her early work at Oxfam and UNICEF, and leading to her current role championing women’s rights across the globe.
Raakhi reflects on her leadership journey, including the unique challenges she faced stepping into the CEO role during the pandemic. She opens up about how The Circle works to end violence against women and empower women and girls through grassroots partnerships, advocacy, and funding.
We explore the vital importance of team culture in a remote setting, the power of global feminism, and why advocacy and fundraising for women’s rights movements have never been more crucial. Raakhi also offers brilliant advice for futureleaders on embracing non-linear career paths and the importance of resilience, networks, and values-led leadership.
Key takeaways • A mission-driven career – Raakhi’s passion for social justice led her into the charity sector. • Feminist leadership – The Circle centres grassroots women-led movements around the world. • Leading through change – Raakhi became CEO during COVID-19, facing unique pressures. • Team culture – Remote leadership requires intentional connection and strong communication. • Advocacy and empowerment – The Circle is committed to long-term systemic change. • Global need – Women’s rights advocacy is more vital than ever in today’s world. • Embracing your path – Raakhi encourages future leaders to see value in a non-linear journey. • Balance and boundaries – Looking after yourself is key to sustainable leadership. • Collective impact – Raakhi calls on others to join the movement and support feminist causes.
S2 | E6 Rhonda Nicklin on turning lived experience into leadership
Saison 2 · Épisode 6
jeudi 15 mai 2025 • Durée 38:57
In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey chats with Rhonda Nicklin, Chief Executive of Swings and Smiles – a charity supporting disabled children and their families through inclusive play and respite care.
Rhonda shares how her background in nursing and her lived experience as a parent led her into the charity sector. From service user to CEO, she unpacks the power of play therapy, the challenges of running a small charity in a post-COVID world, and how confidence, collaboration and community sit at the heart of her leadership.
Visit the charity - https://www.swingsandsmiles.co.uk/
Key takeaways
Rhonda’s leadership journey was shaped by her personal connection to the cause.
Swings and Smiles uses play therapy to support the emotional and social needs of disabled children.
Demand for services has grown significantly since the pandemic.
Trust, empathy, and consistency are key to building relationships with families.
Rhonda draws on her nursing background to inform her leadership style.
She believes in learning from mistakes and leading with authenticity.
Collaboration with other charities and professionals strengthens their impact.
Rhonda encourages professionals to consider portfolio careers and embrace change.
Episode chapters 00:00 – Welcome and intro to Rhonda Nicklin 06:18 – From nursing to the charity sector 14:17 – How lived experience shapes leadership 20:25 – Growth, demand and the reality of charity work 26:18 – Rhonda’s leadership style and reflections 32:43 – The importance of community partnerships 35:42 – How to support or get involved38:11 – Final thoughts and inspiration
S 1 | Ep 15 – The power of stories in the charity sector
Saison 1 · Épisode 15
lundi 23 septembre 2024 • Durée 12:25
In this special, shortened finale, The Charity Changemakers Podcast host Adam Stacey reflects on an incredible first series, bringing together the insights and learnings from our 14 inspiring guests from across the charity sector.
Adam revisits the most impactful moments, from mentorship and fundraising challenges to innovative strategies forworkforce development.
Adam also expresses his heartfelt gratitude to all guests, listeners, and supporters for making this journey so rewarding.
As a thank-you, he’s launching a FREE recruitment checklist designed to help charities streamline their hiring processes.
Stay tuned for Series 2, where we’ll dive even deeper into the challenges and opportunities facing the charity world, meeting inspiring Changemakers along the way!
Key highlights:
Series reflections: Adam discusses the powerful insights shared by the guests, focusing on mentorship, overcoming funding struggles, and the sector's creative problem-solving.
12:03 – Leadership challenges in government and charity
19:44 – The evolving role of charities
23:11 – Responding to the cost-of-living crisis
28:20 – Making funding accessible and streamlined
31:17 – The role of AI in grant applications
33:27 – Connecting charities across regions
36:40 – Support systems for charity leaders
41:38 – Advice to his younger self
43:20 – Series 2 outro
Listen & share 🎧 The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow on your favourite platform — and don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review to help inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Tune in and get inspired!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
05:05 Don's Route into the Charity Sector
11:17 Transitioning from Corporate to Youth Work
14:59 The Impact of Visiting Ethiopia
17:00 Joining Compassion and Role Overview
25:50 Holistic Employee Support in the Charity Sector
26:47 Rigorous Recruitment and Commitment to Team
27:10 Taking the Initiative: Investing in Personal Development
30:21 Building a Positive Work Culture and Shared Ownership
34:04 Being Data-Informed but Relationship-Led in Fundraising
47:04 The Power of Focusing on the 'One'
49:40 Be More, Do Less: Creating Margin and Taking Care of Yourself The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available
on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!
Feel free to share this episode with anyone interested in the charity sector, leadership, or personal development.
Tune in and get inspired!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
05:08 Entering the Charity Sector
09:06 The Role of Mentors and Training
13:10 Transitioning to Strategic Leadership
17:40 The Importance of Personal Interactions
19:47 Crohn's and Colitis UK: A Transformative Organisation
23:05 Managing a Remote Work Environment
25:03 Working Virtually and Managing Partnerships
26:33 Maintaining Connections in a Virtual Environment
27:39 Experiences in Singapore and Hong Kong
29:33 Fundraising Challenges in Different Cultural Contexts
38:08 Supportive and Transparent Leadership
43:41 Raising Awareness about Inflammatory Bowel Disease
46:36 Advice for Young Professionals
The Charity Changemakers Podcast
is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!
Chris paints a picture of a thriving network of support, where the foundation and its partners work together to address the specific needs of the community. This
collaborative approach ensures that programmes are tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by individuals in Sheffield and the surrounding areas.
Throughout the conversation, Chris' passion for the foundation's work shines through. He speaks with pride
about the positive relationship between the foundation and the football club, highlighting the invaluable support the club provides.
He also sheds light on the foundation's funding model, which includes a combination of support from the Premier League Charitable Fund, the English Football League, grants,
contracts, and service agreements. This multi-faceted approach allows the foundation to secure the necessary resources to sustain and expand its vital programmes.
Chris’ leadership, coupled with the dedication of his team and the support of partners, has created a powerful
force for good in the community. Through their unwavering commitment to social impact, they are empowering individuals, building stronger communities, and creating a brighter future for all.
Tune in and get inspired!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
03:00 The Importance of Sports and Friendship for Mental Health
04:00 Chris Bailey's Journey in the Charity Sector
09:26 Investing in Team Development and Growth Opportunities
14:41 The Growth and Programs of the Sheffield United Foundation
20:13 Recruitment Challenges and the Power of the Sheffield United Brand
22:10 The Importance of Partnerships in Delivering Impactful Programs
23:36 The Impact of Sheffield United on the Community
24:27 Delivering Programs with a Deep Impact
29:03 The Positive Relationship Between the Foundation and the Football Club
35:49 Building Strong Partnerships for Community Development
42:06 A Diverse Funding Model for Sustainability The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next
generation of changemakers!
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about conservation, interested in the charity sector, or seeking inspiration from a leader who has successfully navigated a significant career transition.
Tune in and get inspired!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Quickfire Questions
03:12 Laura's Career Journey and Transition to the Charity Sector
07:24 Involvement in the City of Culture Bid and Trustee Role
13:30 Transition from Commercial Retail to Marwell Wildlife
19:09 The Value of Transferable Skills in the Charity Sector
23:25 Transition into the Role of CEO at Marwell Wildlife
26:12 Conservation Work of Marwell Wildlife
31:42 Funding Conservation Projects and Balancing the Books
35:08 Supportive Networks and Learning from Others
40:19 Importance of Volunteering and Trustee Roles
24:30 The Shift to Flexible and Blended Working
25:24 Innovative Ways of Working: The Four-Day Workweek
39:12 Shifting Focus: From Co-working Space to Centre for Social Innovation
43:47 Effective Leadership: Empowering and Trusting Team Members
49:05 Setting Boundaries and Prioritising Self-Care The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!
Tune in and hear Raakhi’s inspiring reflections on feminism, leadership, and making lasting change.
Get involved Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more inspiring conversations withnonprofit leaders who are making a difference.
Learn more about The Circle at https://thecircle.ngo. Connect with Adam Stacey on LinkedIn for more discussionson leadership, recruitment, and impact in the charity sector.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Raakhi Shah and The Circle 03:55 Raakhi’s journey into the charity sector 06:45 Working at Oxfam and UNICEF 09:52 The personal impact of international development work 12:51 The Circle – mission, vision and values 15:47 Advocacy and global feminism 23:33 Leadership through crisis 24:47 The growing urgency of women’s rights advocacy 27:06 How to get involved with The Circle 29:29 Becoming CEO during a pandemic 31:25 Leadership development and support networks 34:47 Building team culture remotely 39:11 Balancing personal and professional roles 43:20 Advice for future nonprofit leaders The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify,Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. If you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to follow, like and review – it helps others find us and backs our mission to champion changemakers across the charity sector.
Thank you! Heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s been a part of this journey – from the amazing guests to the supportive listeners.
FREE Recruitment Checklist: To wrap up Series 1,we’re launching a free tool to help charities navigate their recruitment challenges. https://bit.ly/FreeRecruitmentChecklist
Series 2 preview: Get excited for what's to come in Series 2 later this year – more insights, more strategies, and more voices from the charity sector
Thank you for being a changemaker with us! We look forward to reconnecting in this space later this year.
The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!
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