Welcome to this special highlights episode of The Charity Show! Hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley are taking a well-deserved break, but we've got a treat for you as we look back at some of the best moments from season one.

In this episode, we revisit some of the most inspiring stories and insightful discussions that have graced our show. From the incredible fundraising efforts of Alex Staniforth, founder of Mind Over Mountains, to Richard Jain's expert insights on rebranding for Brainkind, and Sarah White's journey of starting SuperShoes from her kitchen table, this episode is packed with highlights.

We also delve into the evolving landscape of AI in the Charity sector with Zoe Amar, and hear from Katie Docherty, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, about the current state of fundraising amidst the cost of living crisis. Plus, we get the inside scoop on the voluntary sector manifesto with Saskia Koynenburg from NCVO.

Join us as we celebrate the incredible guests and stories that have made season one unforgettable. And don't forget, we'll be back with season two on 16 September. Until then, enjoy your summer and stay inspired!

Get in touch with the show

- Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

- Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

- Send us a voice message: https://tr.ee/zMWg00GiKG

- Check out our episode poll on Spotify

- Leave us a comment or review

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome

(01:30) Looking back at Season 1

(02:58) Alex Staniforth: Mind over Mountains

(09:01) Richard Jane, Brainkind

(13:34) Sarah White, SuperShoes

(18:25) Zoe Amar, AI and charities

(22:46) Katie Docherty, CIOF

(27:22) Vicki Beevers, Strategic Leader of The Year

(31:09) Saskia Koynenburg, NCVO

(37:06) We'll be back!

Featured Charities:

- Mind Over Mountains: https://www.mindovermountains.org.uk/

- Brainkind: https://www.brainkind.org.uk/

- Super Shoes: https://www.supershoes.org.uk/

- The Chartered Institute of Fundraising: https://ciof.org.uk/

- NCVO: https://www.ncvo.org.uk/

Full episode transcript:

- Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/08/season-1-highlights-show-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How can charities and government work better together—and what role do volunteers play in shaping the sector? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley explore the key issues driving the charity world today.

Featuring special guest Saskia Konynenberg from NCVO, this episode covers:

• TheVoluntary Sector Manifesto—how it could transform the relationship between government and charities
• The economic impact of volunteers and why they’re vital to the UK’s nonprofit sector
• How volunteers power major sporting events, from the Olympics to Wimbledon
• The RNLI’sFish Fridays campaign and its impact on fundraising
• Valleyfest—how this growing festival in the West Country is making a difference for charities

Whether you’re a charity leader, volunteer, or simply passionate about social impact, this episode is packed with insights and inspiring stories.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Volunteering #NonprofitSector #SportsForGood #GovernmentAndCharities

Get in touch with the show:

• Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

• Email us: thecharityshowpodmail.com

• Send us a voice message :https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 7

(01:43) Welcome

(06:54) Value of volunteers

(10:32) New website launched to help charities with banking services

(11:54) Channel Fours advert for the Paralympics

(13:28) Introducing Saskia Konynenburg

(14:44) The voluntary sector manifesto

(17:10) The manifesto's asks

(20:22) What's broken?

(24:04) The main parties and the manifesto

(25:44) How charities used the Manifesto

(30:56) Empowering charities to raise their voices through campaigning

(34:52) What will change over the next 5 years?

(36:29) What's your long term vision for volunteers?

(38:56) How can charities hold the Government to account?

(39:52) Superstars of the Week

(43:21) Valley Fest

(45:23) Coming soon

Featured charities and useful links:

• The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

• The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/
• NCVO:https://www.ncvo.org.uk/
• Read the Voluntary Sector Manifesto in full:https://www.ncvo.org.uk/documents/518/the_voluntary_sector_manifesto.pdf

• RNLI: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/jersey-lifeboat-station

• Valley Fest: https://valleyfest.co.uk/

• Teenage Cancer Trust: https://www.teenagecancertrust.org/

• Billy Chip: https://www.billychip.com/

• The Community Farm: https://www.thecommunityfarm.co.uk/

Full episode transcript:

• Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/08/episode-7-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

What makes a great charity leader—and why is strategy so vital for success? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley explore the power of strong leadership and planning in the nonprofit sector.

Featuring special guest Vicki Beevers, Chief Executive of The Sleep Charity and winner ofStrategic Leader of the Year, this episode covers:

• Vicki’s journey from teaching to founding The Sleep Charity
• The biggest challenges of leading a charity and why strategy is key to long-term success
• The dangers charities face without a clear vision and plan
• Highlights from the Bank of England charity auction, where new £20 notes featuring King Charles III raised substantial funds
• Incredible fundraising stories, including a firefighter tackling an ultra-marathon on a treadmill while watchingFireman Sam, and brave skydivers jumping for charity

Whether you’re a charity leader, fundraiser, or just love hearing inspiring stories from the sector, this episode is packed with insights and advice.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #NonprofitLeadership #CharityStrategy #FundraisingStories #SocialImpact

Get in touch with the show

-Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

- Email us:thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

-Send us a voice message: https://tr.ee/zMWg00GiKG

- Check out our episode poll on Spotify

- Leave us a comment or review

Chapters

(00:00) Hello and welcome

(01:36) Busy times and auction house shocker

(08:40) News headlines

(13:31) Introducing Vicki Beevers - The Sleep Charity

(14:51) Vicki's background

(16:28) Strategic leader of the year award

(21:04) Dangers of not having a clear strategy

(22:12) What is strategic drift?

(24:25) How do you get your staff and your teams to live by your strategy

(30:26) What qualities do you think are necessary to be a strategic leader in charity

(33:53) Strategy and change

(38:08) Inspiration

(39:16) Do you worry about whether you're doing a good job as charity leader?

(43:35) Superstars of the week

(47:49) Get involved in the show

Featured Charities:

-The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

-The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

-The Sleep Charity:https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/

-The Charity Digital Skills Report: https://charitydigitalskills.co.uk/

Vicki Beevers, Chief Executive, The Sleep Charity

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicki-beevers-43094325/

Full episode transcript:

- Read here:https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/07/episode-6-full-transcript.html

---

Send in a voice message: https://tr.ee/zMWg00GiKG

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How is fundraising evolving in a changing world? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Katie Doherty, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, to explore the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the charity sector.

This episode covers:

• How the cost-of-living crisis is shaping donor behaviour
• The rise of micro-donations and gaming as powerful fundraising tools
• The psychology behind why people give—and how charities can tap into it
• Incredible fundraising feats, including Dan Ives and Lloyd Gregory’s world record for the longest table tennis rally, raising funds for Sands
• Russell Cook’s epic run across Africa, which raised over £1 million for The Running Charity
• How festivals like Glastonbury are driving millions in donations for charities like Oxfam and WaterAid

Tune in for expert insights, inspiring stories, and practical advice for fundraisers and charity professionals.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #FundraisingInnovation #NonprofitLeadership #SocialImpact #GamingForGood

Get in touch with the show

• Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

• Email us: thecharityshowpodmail.com

• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

• Answer our episode question on Spotify

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 5

(01:36) Welcome

(04:51) Election week and its impact on charities

(09:44) Exploring AI tools

(12:46) Free airtime for UK charities

(15:40) Fundraising landscape with Katie Doherty

(22:26) Micro-donations

(28:36) Gaming as a fundraising tool

(30:45) Extreme fundraising

(32:06) Festival fundraising

(34:02) Tony Hudgel's inspiring story

(37:34) Research on common names in the charity sector

(41:49) Future of fundraising

(43:03) Superstars of the week

(47:45) Coming up on The Charity Show

Featured Charities:

• The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

• The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

• Sands: https://www.sands.org.uk/

• The Running Charity: https://www.therunningcharity.org/

• Oxfam: https://www.oxfam.org.uk/

• The Trussell Trust: https://www.trusselltrust.org/

Full episode transcript:

• Read here:https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/07/episode-5-full-transcript.html

---

Send in a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How is artificial intelligence transforming the charity sector? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Zoe Amar, a leading expert in digital strategy for charities, to explore how AI is being used to enhance fundraising, boost efficiency, and create powerful storytelling opportunities.

This episode covers:

• How charities are using AI to improve donor engagement and automate tasks
• Real-world examples, including a Scottish hospice using AI to preserve patient memories
• The ethical considerations of AI in the third sector
• The inspiring story of Andy Airey, Mike Palmer, and Tim Owen, who have raised over £1.4 million for Papyrus in memory of their daughters
• A record-breaking paddle-out challenge by Healing Waves Charity and RNLI Jersey, raising funds for vital causes

Join us as we uncover the opportunities and challenges AI presents for charities and celebrate the incredible fundraisers making a difference.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #AIForGood #NonprofitInnovation #SocialImpact #Fundraising

Get in touch with the show

-Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

- Email us:thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

-Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

- Answer our episode question on Spotify

- Check out our episode poll on Spotify

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 4

(01:36) Welcome

(04:51) Who's on the show this week?

(09:44) News

(12:46) AI and the third sector

(14:18) AI - what are we talking about here?

(15:40) Examples of where it's being used well

(22:26) Will AI lead to job cuts?

(28:36) AI and fundraising

(30:45) Take up of AI

(32:06) Concerns around data privacy and confidentiality

(34:02) How transparent do charities need to be about AI?

(35:53) Are there any specific AI tools that charities should consider using?

(37:34) What role should senior leaders take with AI?

(41:49) Is the future bright for AI in our sector?

(43:03) Superstars of the week

(47:45) Coming up on The Charity Show

Featured Charities:

- The Fire Fighters Charity:https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

- The Brain Tumour Charity:https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

- Papyrus:https://www.papyrus-uk.org/

- Healing Waves Charity:https://www.healingwaves.org/

- RNLI Jersey:https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/jersey-lifeboat-station

- Bristol Autism Support:https://www.bristolautismsupport.org/

- Marie Curie:https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/

More about Zoe

- Website:https://zoeamar.com/

- LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeamar/⁠

Full episode transcript:

- Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/06/episode-4-full-transcript.html

--- Send in a voice message:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How do small charities create a big impact? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley speak with Sarah White, Chief Executive of Supershoes, about the journey of a volunteer-driven charity that crafts custom-designed shoes for children undergoing cancer treatment. Sarah shares how a simple act of kindness grew into a national organisation and highlights the vital role of volunteers in making a difference.

This episode also covers:

• The Fire Fighters Charity receiving Royal patronage from King Charles
• The Brain Tumour Charity’s £1 million milestone with Wickes
• The incredible legacy of Rob Burrow and the groundbreaking of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND
• Project Giving Back at the Chelsea Flower Show, supporting UK charities through garden displays
• This week’s Superstars: Nihar Kandakar, a dedicated volunteer for The Wolfpack Project, and Shilpa Sheddev, who skydived for Leukaemia UK

Tune in to hear inspiring stories of resilience, creativity, and the power of volunteers in the charity sector.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Volunteering #SmallButMighty #MakingADifference #Fundraising

Get in touch with the show

-Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ

- Email us:thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

-Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

- Answer our episode question on Spotify

- Check out our episode poll on Spotify

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(00:53) Welcome to the show

(04:01) Coming up

(08:33) This week's news: Rob Burrow and Chelsea Flower Show

(11:36) Project Giving Back

(15:20) Supershoes

(16:26) Welcome Sarah, CEO of Supershoes

(19:22) Early days of Supershoes

(20:51) Supershoes' volunteer model

(31:02) The power of being a small charity

(34:51) Working with partners

(39:33) The future of Supershoes

(42:05) Advice to others

(43:19) This week's Superstars

(46:36) Coming soon

Featured Charities:

-The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

-The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

-Supershoes: https://www.supershoes.org.uk/

-Leukaemia UK: https://www.leukaemiauk.org.uk/

-The Wolfpack Project: https://www.thewolfpackproject.org.uk/

-Project Giving Back: https://www.givingback.org.uk/

-Leeds Hospitals Charity

https://www.leedshospitalscharity.org.uk/

-Motor Neurone Disease Association

https://www.mndassociation.org/

-Bowel Research UK

https://www.bowelresearchuk.org/

-Young Lives vs Cancer

https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/

Full episode transcript:

-Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/06/episode-3-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How can a rebrand transform a charity’s future? In this episode ofThe Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley explore the complexities of charity rebranding with Richard Jane, Director of External Affairs at Brainkind. Richard shares the strategic journey from The Disabilities Trust to Brainkind, revealing the key decisions behind the change, the role of stakeholder engagement, and how to balance legacy with a fresh identity.

This episode also covers:

• The power of rebranding and how it can redefine a charity’s trajectory
• The hidden costs ofnot rebranding and why change can be a crucial investment
• The inspiring fundraising feats of nine-year-old Arthur Middleton, who took on a mountainous challenge, and 107-year-old Joan Willett, whose determination has inspired thousands

Tune in to hear expert insights on rebranding, the importance of community involvement, and the incredible stories of fundraisers making a difference.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Rebranding #Fundraising #CharityLeadership #MakingADifference

Get in touch with the show

• ⁠Send us a message⁠:⁠https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ⁠
• Email us:⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠
• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow
• Answer our episode question on Spotify
• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

Episode Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:53) Welcome to episode two

(02:20) Mental Health Awareness Week

(03:46) Coming up

(07:09) If you were a brand...

(09:13) Jelly Babies and Help for Heroes

(11:36) Rebranding - Richard Jane, Brainkind

(14:52) Introducing Brainkind

(17:51) Why rebrand from The Disabilities Trust?

(19:51) Consulting with staff and beneficiaries

(25:49) Sticking points along the way

(28:05) Rollout

(30:16) Working with an agency

(33:12) Impact of the rebrand

(37:35) Advice for others

(38:57) Superstars of the week

(45:08) Coming soon

Featured Charities:

• The Fire Fighters Charity: ⁠https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/⁠

• The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/
• British Heart Foundation: https://www.bhf.org.uk/
• Brainkind: https://www.brainkind.org/
• Help for Heroes:https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/
• Mental Health Foundation:https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
• Horatio's Garden:https://www.horatiosgarden.org.uk/

Full episode transcript:

• Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/05/episode-2-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Welcome to the very first episode ofThe Charity Show! Join hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley—longstanding charity comms professionals—as they launch this brand-new podcast, diving into the most inspiring stories, innovative campaigns, and key issues shaping the third sector.

In this premiere episode, we explore:

• The bold beginnings of new charities, featuring special guest Alex Staniforth, co-founder of Mind Over Mountains, who shares how his mental health struggles and love of the outdoors led to a charity that blends adventure with professional support
• The PR stunts making waves, from the Oddballs Foundation’s cheeky Westminster Bridge campaign to Age UK’s unique approach to training staff on elderly mobility challenges
• The unsung heroes of the charity world, including marathon runners in wild costumes and a seven-year-old’s inspiring ascent of Mount Snowdon

Whether you're a seasoned charity professional or new to the sector,The Charity Show is your biweekly dose of insight, inspiration, and involvement.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discoverThe Charity Show!

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Innovation #CharityHeroes #MakingADifference

Get in touch with the show

• Send us a message:https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ
• Email us:thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow
• Answer our episode question on Spotify
• Check out our episode poll

📋Episode Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to the show

(01:16) Coming up in this episode

(02:04) A genius campaign, involving a bridge!

(04:27) Empathising with those you support through tech

(08:27) Alex Staniforth - Welcome to the show

(12:10) The inspiration behind Mind Over Mountains

(16:48) New charity admin

(19:11) How is the charity funded now?

(21:52) The difference made by a Chief Exec

(23:36) Taking a step back

(25:46) Looking to the future for Mind Over Mountains

(28:02) Raising half a million pounds

(31:50) Stars of the show - Amazing fundraisers and volunteers

(39:18) Get in touch with the show

Charities featured in this episode:

• The Fire Fighters Charity:https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/
• The Brain Tumour Charity:https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/
• Mind Over Mountains:https://www.mindovermountains.org.uk/

• Project 500:https://www.mindovermountains.org.uk/project-500/

• The Running Charity:https://www.therunningcharity.org/
• Sandblast:http://www.sandblast-arts.org/
• Make-A-Wish Foundation:https://www.make-a-wish.org.uk/
• Oddballs Foundation:https://www.myoddballs.com/pages/charity

Full transcript

• Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/04/episode-1-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Hosts Tim and Piers explain what The Charity Show is all about and how you can be a part of it, whatever your role in the third sector.

Follow us on your usual podcast platform today, so you don't miss an episode.

Check out our website: The Charity Show

Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

How can charities attract top talent—and what’s holding them back from embracing AI? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley return from their summer break with fresh insights and sector news.

Featuring special guest Maya Bhose from The Well Placed, this episode covers:

• The challenges of recruiting in the charity sector and how midlife professionals are transitioning from corporate careers into nonprofits
• A unique fundraising collaboration between Marmite and Elton John as part of a $1 million charity partnership
• The incredible story of a 10-year-old who cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back, raising £15,000 for Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital
• The ethical dilemmas charities face on social media platforms like X
• Why only 3% of charities are using AI—and what’s stopping wider adoption

Whether you’re a charity leader, fundraiser, or just love hearing about creative partnerships and inspiring stories, this episode is packed with insights.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #CharityRecruitment #AIinCharity #FundraisingStories #NonprofitMarketing

Get in touch with the show:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpodmail.com⁠
• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify
• Leave us a comment or review
• ⁠⁠Send us a message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ⁠⁠

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in the show

(01:38) Welcome to Episode 9

(03:34) Cancer Research UK plank challenge

(04:49) Send us your voice messages

(07:48) Switching from corporate to charity

(10:49) News

(12:11) Recent research suggests wealthy people could give more to charity than they actually do

(13:15) Public trust in charities at highest level in ten years, says charity Commission

(16:08) Only 3% of charities are using AI in their regular operations, survey finds

(18:58) Maya Bhose and The Well Placed

(21:52) Maya's background

(23:47) The third sector skills gap in marketing

(27:39) Midlife marketers embracing the charity sector

(31:19) The older you get, the harder it is to find work

(33:06) Recruiting midlife workers

(37:17) Success stories

(43:25) Superstars of the week

(47:34) Coming up next time

Featured Charities:

• The Well Placed: https://thewellplaced.org/
• Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital: https://www.tiggywinkles.org.uk/

• The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk/

• The Brain Tumour Charity: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/

• Cancer Research UK: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/
• Elton John Aids Foundation: https://www.eltonjohnaidsfoundation.org/

Full episode transcript:

• Read here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/09/episode-9-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How can charities make the most of government-funded apprenticeships—and what’s the future of AI in the nonprofit sector? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley explore the latest opportunities and challenges facing the charity world.

Featuring special guest Laura Thurlow BEM, former charity CEO and apprenticeship expert, this episode covers:

• Over 700 apprenticeship opportunities available to charities
• How AI is transforming the nonprofit sector—both its potential and its risks
• Why some charities consistently raise more than others and what fundraisers can learn
• The latest third-sector news and updates
• The inspiring journey of Dr. Catherine Pointer, a leukaemia survivor supported by the Little Princess Trust, now a cancer researcher funded by the charity

If you’re interested in charity innovation, fundraising success, or sector-wide opportunities, this episode is packed with practical insights.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #NonprofitApprenticeships #AIinCharity #FundraisingSuccess #CharityInnovation

Chapters:

• 00:00 Welcome to Episode 10
• 01:44 Charity sector updates from the last two weeks
• 06:56 Listener voice messages
• 07:31 Apprenticeship opportunities in the charity sector
• 09:38 AI technology in charity work
• 10:25 Charity news and inspiring stories
• 15:39 Interview with Laura Thurlow BEM
• 17:41 Government-funded apprenticeships and how charities can benefit
• 23:29 Smaller charities and apprenticeship programs
• 32:29 Laura Thurlow’s career and Queen’s Honours List
• 37:32 How to apply for apprenticeship programs
• 39:31 Superstars of the week

Featured Charities and Guests:

• Laura Thurlow, Charity Apprenticeship Advocate (LinkedIn)
• The JGA Group
• Little Princess Trust:Supporting children with cancer and funding cancer research
• Anthony Nolan UK:Saving lives through stem cell donations
• Young Gloucestershire: Supporting young people in need
• Donkey Sanctuary: Caring for donkeys and promoting animal welfare
• Women’s Aid,Refuge,IDAS,Safe Lives: Domestic abuse support charities

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow
• Send us a written message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ⁠

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/10/episode-10-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How has Parkrun grown into a global movement with over 10 million runners and nearly a million volunteers? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley celebrate 20 years of Parkrun, exploring its incredible impact on health, community, and charitable giving.

Key topics in this episode:

• The £560 million in unclaimed Gift Aid every year—how charities can take action
• Special guest Garrett Millerick, comedian and writer ofDo Gooders, on blending comedy with sensitive charity topics in his BBC Radio 4 sitcom
• The rising cost of stamps and its impact on charity Christmas card fundraising
• Honouring the legacy of Neil Dickson and his contributions to The Brain Tumour Charity

Whether you’re a fundraiser, charity leader, or simply love a good story about community impact, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Parkrun #GiftAid #DoGooders #Fundraising #CommunityImpact

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to the show

(01:39) Smiley Charity Film Awards and a legacy to remember

(06:05) What is the best sitcom?

(09:24) News: The price of stamps and missing GiftAid

(10:59) Parkrun turns 20

(15:39) Garrett Millerick: Do Gooders, the third sector and comedy

(47:01) Superstars of the week: Pothole disappointment and lifetime supporter

(50:41) Coming soon

Featured Charities and Guest Links:

• Garrett Millerick - Links to his socials, shows and everything you could need
• Do Gooders on BBC Sounds
• Sophie Kinsella's new book, What Does It Feel Like?
• Parkrun: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/
• RNLI: https://www.rnli.org/
• Wiltshire Air Ambulance: https://www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow⁠
• ⁠Send us a written message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ⁠⁠

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/10/episode-11-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How should charities navigate the ethical challenges of social media in an era of constant change? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Adeela Warley, CEO of Charity Comms, to explore how Elon Musk’s changes to X (formerly Twitter) are impacting the sector and what charities can do to stay ethical and effective online.

Key topics in this episode:

• The evolving role of social media in charity communications
• How charities can balance free speech, ethics, and reputation management online
• Creative fundraising initiatives, including:

• Michelle Oldfield’s cheeky charity calendar supporting breast and prostate cancer charities
• Snowdog sculptures in Derbyshire raising funds for Blythe House Hospice
• The King’s Trust rebrand—what’s changing and why it matters
• The innovative “Invisible Chips” campaign supporting Hospitality Action

If you work in charity communications or fundraising, this episode is packed with insights, ethical considerations, and creative ideas to boost engagement.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #SocialMediaEthics #CharityComms #FundraisingInnovation #NonprofitMarketing

Chapters

(00:00) This podcast is produced by charity Insiders

(01:53) Welcome to Ep.12

(05:24) Shining a spotlight on the ethics of social media

(09:00) This week's third sector news

(10:41) The Prince's Trust is rebranded as The King's Trust

(12:28) Invisible chips

(13:42) The problem with X

(15:13) Welcome - Adeela Warley, Chief Executive, Charity Comms

(16:57) The question of withdrawing from X completely

(26:05) New social media channel checklist for charities

(30:05) Testing new emerging platforms

(33:02) Other challenges charities are facing with socialmedia

(37:22) Dealing with misinformation

(41:12) Charity Comms Inspiring Communicator Awards

(44:15) Cheeky charity calendar for 2025

(45:37) Snow dog sculptures to raise money for Derbyshire hospice

(47:48) Coming up

Featured charities and guest links:

-Charity Comms: https://www.charitycomms.org.uk/

• Charity Comms Social Media Hub: https://www.charitycomms.org.uk/social-media-updates-and-resources
• Charity Comms Social Media Platform Checklist: https://www.charitycomms.org.uk/social-media-platform-checklist

-Blythe House Hospice:https://www.blythehousehospice.org.uk/

-Breast Cancer Now: https://www.breastcancernow.org/

-Prostate Cancer UK: https://prostatecanceruk.org/

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠Send us a written message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ⁠⁠⁠

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• ⁠Click here for full transcript

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How will the UK’s latest budget impact the charity sector—and what can organisations do to adapt? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley break down the key financial changes, including increased National Insurance contributions, and what they mean for charities across the UK.

Featuring insights from Saskia Koynenburg at the NCVO, the discussion covers:

• How budget changes will affect charity operational costs
• What charities can do to push back against financial burdens, including joining sector-wide petitions
• Tips from Tracy Anne-Breese on organising high-impact challenge events to boost fundraising

Also in this episode:

• A chance to win a copy of the inspiring new bookStories of Cancer and Hope
• Colin Farrell’s latest fundraising efforts for DEBRA Ireland
• A discussion on the potential impact of Donald Trump’s return on the charity sector

Stay informed, get inspired, and discover practical strategies to navigate financial challenges.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Fundraising #NonprofitFinance #BudgetImpact #CharitySector

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 13

(01:52) The US election and the Budget

(02:22) Will Donald Trump's second term impact charities around the world?

(04:08) Fire Fighters Charity team nominated for Charity Comms Inspiring Communicator Award

(06:41) Music Industry Trusts Awards honoured Jason Illey this year

(08:29) Saskia is back to talk about the impact of the Budget and National Insurance Contributions

(11:38) Any increases in budget to charities at this stage will ultimately mean cuts to services

(12:28) Saskia says reaction from charity sector was one of outrage

(20:18) NCVO has launched an open letter urging charities to sign up

(23:25) Kevin Donaghy has written a book called Stories of Cancer and Hope

(25:01) Win a copy of Stories of Cancer and Hope

(26:18) This week we take a closer look at challenge events with Tracey Anne-Breese

(27:21) How do you define a challenge event?

(31:31) Are there any key elements that make an event a success

(47:51) Group of Grey Dippers challenge themselves to go swimming in freezing cold waters

(50:03) Colin Farrell's marathon challenge

Featured Charities and Guest Links:

• National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO)
• Challenge Event Experts
• Maggie's Cancer Charity
• DEBRA Ireland
• Kevin's Book: Stories of Cancer and Hope
• North Ayrshire Foodbank
• Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy
• The BRITS Trust

Win a copy of Stories of Cancer and Hope

To win a copy of Kevin Donaghy's inspirational book, just send us your name and address on an email tothecharityshowpod@gmail.com. We'll pick a winner at random. Please also consider donating to Kevin's chosen charity, Maggie's Cancer Charity.

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow
• Send us a written message: https://tr.ee/OvwtI-oDvJ
• Check out our episode poll on Spotify
• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

What drives people to take on extreme charity challenges—and how do they create real impact? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with former England rugby captain Lewis Moody MBE to discuss his journey from professional sport to leading the Lewis Moody Foundation.

Lewis shares how his foundation is funding life-changing brain tumour research and how its challenge events have raised over £2.3 million.

Key topics in this episode:

• The power of charity challenges in raising awareness and funds
• The Brain Tumour Charity’s recent work with Davina McCall and The Wanted’s upcoming charity gig
• Cryptocurrency in fundraising—how JustGiving now accepts over 60 types of crypto donations
• Innovative fundraising ideas, from vending machines in Solihull to Yorkshire Children's Charity’s efforts to keep children warm this winter

If you’re interested in fundraising, charity challenges, or new donation trends, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Fundraising #CharityChallenges #CryptoDonations #LewisMoody #BrainTumourResearch

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 14

(01:39) Welcome to Episode 14

(02:18) Davina McCall's brain tumour diagnosis

(07:49) Children In Need's epic night

(09:32) Men's Health Month, Prostate cancer and Sir ChrisHoy's legacy

(13:41) The rise of cryptocurrency

(17:38) Introducing Lewis Moody MBE

(22:55) Lewis's biggest challenge after retiring from rugby

(25:51) The inspiration behind the Lewis Moody Foundation

(34:00) Setting up the Foundation

(35:54) Fundraising through extreme challenges

(45:53) Lewis's pride in the Foundation

(52:43) Advice for anyone taking on a challenge event

(54:40) Fundraising vending machines

(56:17) Yorkshire Children's Charity providing warmessentials

(58:05) Coming up next time

Featured Charities and Guest Links:

• ⁠The Brain Tumour Charity⁠
• ⁠Prostate Cancer UK⁠

• ⁠JustGiving⁠

• ⁠Yorkshire Children's Charity⁠

• ⁠The Lewis Moody Foundation⁠

Sponsor Lewis on his Sahara Trek

• Donate here: The Brain Tumour Charity: Lewis Sahara Desert Trek

Get involved:

• All the links you need are on our LinkTree site: The Charity Show | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree
• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow⁠

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• ⁠Read the full transcript here: https://thecharityshowtranscripts.blogspot.com/2024/11/episode-14-full-transcript.html

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

What does it take to lead some of the UK’s biggest charities? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Chris Sherwood, outgoing CEO of the RSPCA, as he reflects on his leadership journey and his next big challenge at the NSPCC.

Chris shares insights on:

• The rewards and challenges of leading major charities
• Why mentoring matters in the charity sector
• His transition from animal welfare to child protection and what he hopes to achieve at the NSPCC

Also in this episode:

• The Santa in the City run, where thousands of Santas took to the streets for charity
• A young schoolboy’s epic fundraising challenge—running the entire Cornish coastal path
• How Google Street View & Whizz-Kidz are making the London Underground more accessible for wheelchair users

Don’t miss this fascinating conversation with one of the sector’s most experienced leaders.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #NonprofitLeadership #Mentoring #Fundraising

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 15

(01:23) Hello and welcome

(07:25) Introducing Chris Sherwood

(08:40) Chris's early charity career

(11:07) Becoming Chief Exec at Relate

(14:42) What qualities make a good Chief Exec?

(16:45) The importance of a good mentor

(21:02) Third sector news

(23:33) Controversies

(28:36) Chris Sherwood - Part 2

(32:41) Leading through the pandemic

(35:20) Moving on to NSPCC

(42:46) Balancing work and life

(44:45) Relaxing

(46:04) Superstars of the week

Featured Charities and Guest Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠RSPCA⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠NSPCC⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Whizz-Kidz⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Cornwall Wildlife Trust⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Sarcoma UK⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Relate⁠⁠⁠

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠⁠⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow⁠⁠⁠
• Check out our episode poll on Spotify
• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• ⁠⁠⁠Read the full transcript here⁠⁠⁠

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Episode 16 of The Charity Show brings a festive flair as hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley delve into the holiday season with a mix of charity news, quizzes, and heartwarming stories. The duo celebrates the South Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service's creative fundraising efforts with their bid for Christmas number one, featuring the catchy "Fire Safety Dance" by Big Shaun and the Steel People. They also spotlight the brave souls participating in Christmas morning swims, raising funds for causes like The Alzheimer's Society. In this episode, listeners are treated to a festive quiz with questions on charity-themed Christmas trivia, including the origins of Christmas cards and jumper days. Tim and Piers also discuss the incredible generosity of UK cities, with Liverpool topping the list for charitable donations, and the impressive £2.6 million raised by Jingle Jam's live streaming event. Plus, discover how Tesco's gingerbread initiative supports Trussle and Fair Share, and learn about the innovative Christmas tree recycling schemes benefiting charities across the UK. As always, Tim and Piers celebrate their sector superstars, highlighting fundraisers and volunteers making a difference this holiday season.

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to our Christmas special

(01:37) Mince pies and other matters

(04:17) Cheese or service station

(05:27) South Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service bid for Christmas number one

(07:55) Festive third sector news

(08:16) Scuba diving santas

(09:24) Tesco gingerbread for good

(11:04) Well done Liverpool!

(11:31) Streaming for Christmas

(14:32) The Charity Show Christmas Quiz

(15:19) December is the most generous month for charitable giving in the UK

(15:52) Use these questions to test your Christmas music knowledge

(16:47) The Big Issue foundation encourages people to buy which festive item as a gift

(18:48) Superstars of Christmas

(22:24) Christmas Quiz - The Answers

(28:31) End of the year and coming soon

Featured Charities and Links:

• Fire Fighters Charity

• Alzheimer's Society

• Trussell Trust

• FareShare

• The Big Issue Foundation

• Save the Children
• Recycle your Christmas tree and give to charity

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

What do Meta’s latest changes, major donor philanthropy, and Snoop Dogg have in common? They’re all shaping the future of the charity sector—and we’re diving into it all in this episode of The Charity Show.

Hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley kick off 2025 with expert insights on how charities can navigate the evolving digital landscape, build meaningful relationships with high-value donors, and capitalise on unexpected opportunities.

Key topics in this episode:

• How Meta’s latest updates, led by Mark Zuckerberg, could impact charity fundraising and social engagement
• The power of major donor philanthropy, featuring an exclusive interview with Sally Williams, Head of Philanthropy at the Royal College of Physicians
• Sally’s journey from the British Army to the charity sector—and what she’s learned about building strong donor relationships
• A £1.4 million legacy gift to the RNLI and what it means for charities relying on gifts in wills
• Snoop Dogg’s unexpected support for a small London charity—proving philanthropy can come from anywhere
• Celebrating charity champions from The King’s 2025 New Year’s Honours list, including young changemaker Michaela Beans and renowned neurosurgeon Professor Kemore Ashkan

If you’re in fundraising, philanthropy, or charity leadership, this episode is packed with insights to kickstart your year.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Fundraising #Philanthropy #MajorDonors #LegacyGiving #NonprofitLeadership

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 17

(01:46) Welcome back and Happy New Year

(05:22) Major donor philanthropy with Sally Williams- Part 1

(08:40) Moving from the armed services into the third sector

(10:51) The Institute of Cancer Research

(13:27) What is a Senior Philanthropy Manager?

(14:25) Developing relationships with major donors takes time and investment

(18:17) Restricted gifts

(21:02) Third Sector News

(29:42) Major donor philanthropy with Sally Williams- Part 2

(31:47) Major donors and ethical considerations

(33:31) Demonstrating the impact of donations

(38:26) Measuring success

(40:45) Competition for major donors

(46:19) Superstars of the Week - Honours special

(53:11) Coming soon

Featured Charities and Useful Links:

• RNLI
• Institute of Cancer Research
• The Royal College of Physicians
• Daylight Studio
• Fire Fighters Charity
• The Brain Tumour Charity
• New Year Honours List 2025 - GOV.UK

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
• Send us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheCharityShow
• Check out our episode poll on Spotify
• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How can charities better connect with young people—and why does it matter? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley explore the vital role of young people in shaping the charity sector’s future.

They sit down with Mel Kelly and Catherine Hogan, inspiring Young Ambassadors for The Brain Tumour Charity, who share their personal journeys and the unique skills young people bring to the table.

Key topics in this episode:

• Why 40% of 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK are interested in joining charity boards—and what this means for the sector
• How charities can use social media to build trust and engage younger supporters
• The power of volunteering and advocacy beyond financial donations

If you're a charity leader, fundraiser, or comms professional looking to attract the next generation of supporters, this episode is for you.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #YouthEngagement #YoungTrustees #NonprofitLeadership #Fundraising

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 18

(01:23) Introduction

(05:12) The importance of young people in charities

(08:45) Interview with Mel Kelly and Katherine Hogan - Part 1

(15:30) The Young Ambassador Programme

(20:55) Social media's role in charity engagement

(27:10) Third sector news: Youth for Youth relaunch

(30:45) Interview with Mel Kelly and Katherine Hogan - Part 2

(39:12) Spotlight on L Anne Kirkman's sleep out challenge

(42:55) Celebrating young superstars of the week

(49:30) Upcoming episodes and closing remarks

Featured Charities and Useful Links:

• ⁠Brain Tumour Charity⁠

• ⁠The Esther Project⁠

• ⁠Youth for Youth⁠

• ⁠Rays of Sunshine⁠
• ⁠Fire Fighters Charity⁠
• ⁠Just Like Us⁠

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠Send us a voice message⁠

• Check out our episode poll on Spotify

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• ⁠Read the full transcript here⁠

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Tim Hogan

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

How can film help charities tell their most powerful stories? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley dive into the world of charity films with special guest Simon Burton, founder of the Smiley Charity Film Awards.

From viral success stories to emotional storytelling, this episode explores:

• How the Smiley Charity Film Awards became the UK’s biggest celebration of charity storytelling
• Why the best charity films create emotional connections that drive action
• The biggest challenges charities face when making films—and how to overcome them
• How smaller charities can compete with big organisations using creative, shareable content
• The latest charity sector news, including innovative fundraising trends and the challenges facing charity shops

If you want to learn how to craft compelling stories that engage supporters and boost your charity’s reach, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #CharityShow #CharityExperts #Storytelling #Fundraising #NonprofitMarketing #SmileyCharityFilmAwards

Chapters

(00:00) Coming up in Episode 19

(01:36) Welcome to Episode 19

(08:41) Introduction to Simon Burton

(09:54) Simon Burton interview - Part 1

(26:54) Charity news

(35:04) Simon Burton interview - Part 2

(56:00) Superstars of the week

(01:01:11) Coming soon

Featured Charities and Useful Links:

• Smiley Charity Film Awards

• DeafBlind UK

• Scope

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

• Send us a voice message

• Follow us on LinkedIn for updates and polls

• Leave us a comment or review

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Welcome to the first-ever episode ofThe Charity Show Bites! A brand-new bitesize series bringing you quick-fire insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and unexpected truths from the charity sector—perfect for keeping you going between our main fortnightly episodes ofThe Charity Show.

🎭How many hats do you wear? We explore the weirdest, most unexpected tasks charity professionals take on—beyond their actual job descriptions.

📢From acting in charity films to inflatable arch mechanics, hosts Tim and Piers share their own experiences of stepping far outside their job roles.

🗨️Listener stories—from booking helicopter landings to climbing into sweaty mascot suits, hear some of the most surprising extra duties taken on in the third sector.

💡Charity trivia: Did you know that 45% of the UK’s voluntary sector workforce is employed by small charities with fewer than 25 staff? That meansa lot of multitasking!

🎙️How common is this in your charity role? Drop us a comment on LinkedIn or tag us with your best ‘other duties as assigned’ stories!

👉Don’t miss our next full episode ofThe Charity Show next Monday, where we take a deep dive into charity collaborations.

Join the conversation on LinkedIN and social:

• Follow us onLinkedIN
• Bluesky: @thecharityshow.bsky.social
• X: @the_charityshow
• Instagram: @thecharityshowpod

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠Send us a voice message⁠

• Follow us on LinkedIn for updates and polls

• Leave us a comment or review

In this episode of The Charity Show, Tim Beynon and Piers Townley are joined by Steffy Bechelet from Brainkind and Hannah Williams from Women's Aid to explore the critical but often-overlooked link between domestic abuse and brain injury.

They discuss:

• The shocking prevalence of brain injuries among domestic abuse survivors and why greater awareness is urgently needed.
• How Brainkind and Women's Aid formed their groundbreaking partnership and the innovative steps they’re taking to gather vital data.
• The power of collaboration in the charity sector and how working together can amplify impact.
• The emotional toll of working in this field and strategies for maintaining well-being.
• Practical advice for charities looking to build meaningful partnerships and drive real change.

This episode is essential listening for anyone working in the charity sector or interested in the intersection of health, social justice, and collaboration.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. If you enjoy the show, follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

#CharityPodcast #Collaboration #DomesticAbuse #BrainInjury #CharitySector #Brainkind #WomensAid

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 20

(05:59) Introducing Steffy and Hannah - Interview part 1

(23:19) News

(31:43) Steffy and Hannah - Interview part 2

(53:56) Superstars of the Week

Featured charities and useful links

• Brainkind – Learn more about their work on brain injury support and research: https://www.brainkind.org.uk
• Women's Aid – Find support and information on domestic abuse: https://www.womensaid.org.uk
• Brainkind's "Too Many to Count" Report – Read the full report on the link between domestic abuse and brain injury: https://www.brainkind.org.uk/too-many-to-count-report
• Radio 4 Women’s Hour Episode – Listen to the discussion on Brainkind’s research: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001vcd8
• On Track by Women's Aid – Learn about the case management and outcomes measurement system: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/our-research-and-evidence/on-track/
• Royal Foundation’s Blue Light Together Initiative – Supporting emergency responders' mental health: https://www.bluelighttogether.org.uk
• Barnardo’s £18 Million Donation Announcement – Read more about the transformative gift: https://www.barnardos.org.uk
• British Dyslexia Association – Alexandria Crystal’s Petition – Sign and support her campaign to fund screening for neurodivergent conditions in schools & teacher training: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701461
• Cancer Research UK’s Campaign with Faye – See the latest on their marketing campaign: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org

Get involved:

• Email us: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

• Send us a voice message

• Leave us a comment or review

The Charity Show Bites

• Send us your comments for The Charity Show Bites on LinkedIn and our other social channels. All the links are ⁠here⁠

Full episode transcript:

• Read the full transcript here

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your bitesize charity sector fix - quick, sharp, and packed with surprises between our main episodes.

This week, Tim and Piers dive into the weirdest and most unexpected donations charities have ever received. From bizarre charity shop finds to a viral Tinder date disaster that led to a fundraiser, this episode proves that generosity comes in all forms—sometimes hilarious, sometimes baffling.

🎁 The strangest charity donations ever received—including a life-sized red cow sculpture and a rubber bodysuit that sparked a formal complaint.

💸 David Gilmour’s epic donation—how the Pink Floyd legend gifted his multi-million-pound home to Crisis.

🚑 A Tinder date gone horribly wrong—how a fire service rescue led to an unexpected fundraiser for Fire Fighters Charity.

📚 The charity shop treasure hunt—from Giles Brandreth’s teddy bear museum to a first edition of The Hobbit worth £10,000.

Join the conversation on LinkedIn or tag us in your best (or worst!) charity shop find social comments.

Useful Links:🔗 Crisis – Helping end homelessness🔗 Toilet Twinning – Providing sanitation in developing countries🔗 Cancer Research UK – The charity that sold The Hobbit first edition for £10,000🔗 Join "Crap You Find in Charity Shops" on Facebook – A hilarious look at the strangest donations

👉 Next time, we want your stories on the most bizarre or extreme charity challenges—send us your best!

📌 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.📌 Got a strange charity donation story? Share it with us on LinkedIn!📌 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a five-star review and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

🔗 #CharityPodcast #UnexpectedDonations #CharityShopFinds #Fundraising #ThirdSector #TheCharityShow

In this episode of The Charity Show, Tim and Piers explore the power of celebrity involvement in charity work with Zoe Conn, Fundraising and Development Director at Julian House. They discuss how personal connections can lead to impactful partnerships with high-profile figures like Dominic West and Russell Howard, helping to raise awareness and funds for crucial causes.

They cover:

• The strategies behind securing celebrity ambassadors and why authenticity matters

• The challenges of managing high-profile partnerships and ensuring long-term engagement

• Real-life examples of celebrity impact in charity campaigns

• How charities of all sizes can tap into celebrity support, even without big budgets

• The balance between media attention and mission-driven messaging

If you’re curious about how to engage public figures in your cause—or wondering whether celebrity backing is right for your charity—this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. If you enjoy the show, follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 21 of the Charity Insiders podcast is out now

(11:22) Introducing Zoe Conn and Julian House

(32:37) News

(37:35) Zoe Conn - Part 2

(56:30) Superstars

#CharityPodcast #CelebrityAmbassadors #Fundraising #CharitySector #JulianHouse #DominicWest #RussellHoward

Featured charities and useful links

• Julian House – Learn more about their work tackling homelessness: https://www.julianhouse.org.uk
• The Brain Tumour Charity – Celebrity-backed campaigns supporting brain tumour research: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org
• Fire Fighters Charity – Supporting the mental and physical health of fire services: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk
• Scottish Wildlife Trust – Read about their record-breaking mystery donation: https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk
• Ocean 5 Pacific Row Challenge – Follow the team’s journey across the Pacific: https://www.lewismoodyfoundation.org/ocean5
• Asia Ahmed’s Food Charity – Find out more about AIA’s Food Charity: (Check local news sources for updates on her initiative)

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠Send us a voice message⁠

• Leave us a comment or review

The Charity Show Bites

• Send us your comments for The Charity Show Bites on LinkedIn and our other social channels. All the links are ⁠⁠here⁠

Full episode transcript:

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Some people run marathons, others bake cakes… and then there are those who strap a fridge to their backs or race down icy slopes in nothing but a helmet and boots! 😳

In this episode of The Charity Show Bites, Tim and Piers dive into the craziest, most extreme, and downright bizarre fundraising challenges attempted in the name of charity. From marathon-running in deep-sea diving suits to cycling across the world on a penny farthing, these fundraisers prove that there’s no limit to human determination (or creativity!).

Tune in to hear about:
🏃‍♂️ A man who ran 30 half-marathons in 30 days… carrying a fridge!
🩸 An artist who paints entirely in his own blood (yes, really).
🛷 The Naked Sledding World Championships – because fundraising should be fun, right?
🌍 Rowing across the Atlantic at 70 years old to support Alzheimer’s research.

What’s the wildest charity challenge you’ve ever seen? Or better yet – what’s the strangest thing you’d do to raise money? Let us know over on our social channels, or via the links below!

#CharityPodcast #ExtremeFundraising #WeirdDonations #NonprofitLife #TheCharityShow

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠⁠Send us a voice message⁠⁠

• Leave us a comment or review

Follow us on social - every link you need is HERE

• The Charity Show | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

The world of digital marketing is evolving fast, and charities are under increasing pressure to keep up. In this episode, Tim and Piers sit down with Phil Aiston, Director of Digital Marketing at Manifesto, to explore the challenges and opportunities facing charities in the digital space.

They discuss:

• The steep learning curve of digital marketing, from data analytics to social media trends.

• How to prioritise digital initiatives when budgets are tight and expectations are high.

• Emerging trends, including AI and the need to diversify marketing channels.

• The ethical dilemmas of using platforms like Meta—how can charities balance reach with responsibility?

• Why conversion rate optimisation is essential for making the most of limited resources.

Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out in the charity sector, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform. If you enjoy the show, follow and leave a five-star review to help more people discover The Charity Show.

Chapters

(00:09) Welcome to Episode 22

(09:41) Interview with Phil Aiston- Part 1

(35:15) Charity news

(41:43) Interview with Phil Aiston- Part 2

(1:01:06) Superstars

(1:05:45) Coming up

Useful links

• Phil's company, Manifesto: http://manifesto.co.uk/

• Charity Digital: charitydigital.org.uk

• NCVO Digital Resources: ncvo.org.uk

• Fundraising AI Guidance: fundraisingregulator.org.uk

#CharityPodcast #DigitalMarketing #Fundraising #AI #Meta #TheCharityShow

Get involved:

• Email us: ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠

• ⁠⁠Send us a voice message⁠⁠

• Leave us a comment or review

  
  

The Charity Show Bites

• Send us your comments for The Charity Show Bites on LinkedIn and our other social channels. All the links are⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠

Full episode transcript:

Note from Tim and Piers

All views expressed in this podcast are entirely our own, as are the dodgy dad jokes!

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your bitesize fix of charity sector surprises—quick, sharp, and packed with hidden gems.

This week, Tim and Piers explore jaw-dropping discoveries made in UK charity shops in recent years, proving that treasure really can be found among the second hand books and DVDs. From a £56,000 Bible to a £1 vase worth nearly half a million, these stories show just how valuable charity shops can be when it comes to boosting income for good causes.

📖 The £56,000 Bible—how an Oxfam shop in Chelmsford hit the jackpot with a centuries-old discovery.

⚡ Harry Potter gold—the first editions lurking in charity shops, with one selling for £69,000!

🎵 The £4,000 Beatles record—how a simple typo turned a vinyl into a collector’s dream.

🏺 The £1 vase that changed everything—the jaw-dropping story of an overlooked antique selling for £484,000.

🤔 Ethical dilemmas of charity shop treasure hunting—should you tell the shop when you spot a hidden gem?

Join the conversation on LinkedIn, or any of our soial channels, and share your best finds with us!

📌 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message! All the links you need are here: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and subscribe so you never miss an episode!

🔗 #CharityPodcast #CharityShops #HiddenTreasures #Fundraising #TheCharityShow

In This Episode:Have you ever found something incredible in a charity shop?Follow & Subscribe

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your bitesize fix of charity sector surprises— this week with egg-tra insights.

Join Tim and Piers as they hop into the UK's most egg-traordinary Easter campaigns, from chocolate chaos and yarn bombing to community-led raffles and accidental fundraising triumphs. Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or just here for the puns, this one’s got something for everyone.

In this episode

🥚 The Great British Egg Hunt – How a small wording change in Cadbury and the National Trust’s campaign caused a national stir.

🎟️ Exeter Hospice Care’s Easter raffle – A community staple raising thousands each year.

🚢 The Great Orkney Egg Mix-Up – A shopkeeper’s blunder becomes an RNLI fundraising win.

🐣 Knitted Chicks in Lincolnshire – Cosy toppers meet Cadbury's Cream Eggs for a creative fundraising favourite.

🎁 Play to Give’s Easter collections – A grassroots chocolate drive supporting local children and families.

🎨 Yarn bombing for good – Local streets go technicolour in support of hospice care.

Got your own Easter fundraising story?

We’d love to hear it! Share your best seasonal campaigns and creative charity wins—we might include them in a future episode.

Follow & Subscribe📌 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a seasonal story or campaign? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message.
📌 All the links you need are here: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

🔗 #CharityPodcast #EasterFundraising #CharityCampaigns #CreativeFundraising #TheCharityShow

How can charities connect with young people in a noisy digital world? In this episode of The Charity Show, Tim and Piers dive into the ever-evolving world of youth engagement - and what charities need to do to truly connect with the next generation.

They’re joined by Katie Bamber and Laura McIntosh, the dynamic duo behind the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award’s (DofE) award-winning comms strategy, to explore how the charity stays relevant, resonates with young people and builds lasting impact in an increasingly noisy world.

In this episode:

📺 How the TV series Adolescence has shone a spotlight on the role children's charities can play in changing the conversation on youth pressures
📱 Keeping it real online—DofE’s approach to engaging young audiences in a digital-first world.
🎙️ The power of podcasts—why Navigating Now became a vital part of DofE’s communications strategy.
🧠 Top tips for youth engagement—from storytelling with authenticity to listening without assumptions.
🎉 What’s next for DofE—plans for its 70th anniversary and a bold new strategy to grow its reach.

Whether you’re working in youth services, charity comms, or just curious about what makes a youth campaign resonate in 2025, this episode is packed with advice and insight.

Get in touch:

📌 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
📌 Got a story or idea to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
📌 Send us a voice message or connect on social—all the links you need are here: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters

(00:09) Welcome to Episode 23
(06:53) Interview with Katie Bamber and Laura McIntosh – Part 1
(28:51) Third Sector News
(32:49) Interview – Part 2
(52:23) Superstars of the week
(56:55) What’s coming up next

Useful Links

• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) official website

• DofE Youth Ambassadors – Learn more about the voices shaping the Award’s future

• The DofE’s research into young people’s experiences – Including insights mentioned in this episode

• The #FreeToBeMe campaign – Empowering young people to explore who they are

• The Charity Show on LinkedIn – Follow for more insights from across the sector

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your bitesize dose of third sector inspiration - quick, energising, and packed with incredible stories.

This week, Tim and Piers lace up their trainers and relive some of the most unforgettable moments from the 2025 London Marathon, the UK’s largest single-day charity fundraising event. From record-breaking runners to deeply personal tributes, this episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity and community spirit.

In This Episode:🏃‍♂️ Rhino Boy Chris – 113 marathons in a full rhino suit to raise awareness for endangered species.
🌻 Sunflower power – Martin Pritchard Howarth’s cheerful run for Scope.
🦄 Unicorn world record – Adam Cotterill breaks records in full rainbow costume for his local maternity ward.
💔 Running for Alice and Elsie – Sergio Aguia and David Stancombe’s emotional tribute to their daughters.
👰‍♀️ Laura’s wedding dress marathon – Honouring her late husband with her 12th marathon in 12 months for Anthony Nolan.
💪 Crutches & courage – Paralympian David Wetherell’s challenge for Type 1 Diabetes UK.
🔥 Full kit challenge – Steve Moore runs in full firefighter gear for Fire Fighters Charity.
☎️ The running telephone – Dave Locke completes his 25th marathon for Samaritans.
👁️‍🗨️ Blind Dave Heeley – A powerful reminder that determination knows no limits.

Whether you're a marathoner, fundraiser or just need a boost of inspiration—this one’s for you.

Have a marathon story to share?We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with the show or comment on social.

👉 Next time: we’re back with a full-length episode featuring the Stroke Association’s Chief Executive.🔗Follow & Subscribe

📌 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a fundraising story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message!
📌 Find all the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters

(00:50) Welcome & reflections on the London Marathon's charity power
(01:21) Record-breakers and stand-out costumes from the 2025 race
(03:23) Personal tributes and emotional charity motivations
(04:34) Physical challenges and the incredible determination behind them
(08:44) Final thoughts & what’s coming up next

#CharityPodcast #LondonMarathon #FundraisingHeroes #Inspiration #TheCharityShow

How can charities tell authentic, ethical stories through photography — without falling into harmful clichés?

In this powerful episode of The Charity Show, Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Matt Mahmood-Ogston, charity CEO, photographer, and founder of the Naz and Matt Foundation, to unpack how the charity sector can move away from tired tropes and build genuine human connections through visual storytelling.

We dive into:📸 The evolution from glossy PR shots to authentic, human-led photography — and why it matters now more than ever.

🖼️ The ethics of charity imagery — how to represent vulnerable communities with dignity and avoid harm.

🤝 How charities can embrace platforms like Vinted and Depop — adapting to new consumer habits while staying true to their mission.

🌟 Real-world examples of small charities nailing storytelling — including Open Country and Sunny Cycles.

💡 Practical tips for charities — how to rethink your photography and messaging to better resonate with modern audiences.

If you're involved in charity communications, marketing, fundraising, or leadership, this is a conversation you can't afford to miss.

Get involved

📌 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a story, guest suggestion, or campaign to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message!
📌 All the links you need are right here: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a five-star review and subscribe so you never miss an update!

Useful links

🔗 Naz and Matt Foundation – Supporting LGBTQI+ individuals from religious backgrounds.🔗 ⁠Matt's own website – Find out all about Matt's photography and storytelling experience + read his useful guides. And CLICK HERE to read Matt's article ' The uncomfortable truth about your charity photos...'
🔗 Open Country – Helping people with disabilities access and enjoy the countryside.
🔗 Sunny Cycles – A cycling charity promoting inclusion and wellbeing through accessible cycling activities.
🔗 Charity Retail Association – Insights into how charity shops are adapting to the digital age.

Chapters

(00:09) Why charity storytelling needs a radical rethink
(10:45) Interview: Matt Mahmood-Ogston on ethical storytelling and imagery
(35:30) Third Sector News Roundup – Vinted, London Marathon and burnout in fundraising
(50:15) How charities can shift from clichés to authentic storytelling
(1:00:50) Small Charity Spotlight: Open Country and Sunny Cycles

🔗 #CharityPodcast #EthicalStorytelling #CharityImagery #SocialImpact #TheCharityShow

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your bitesize charity sector espresso shot—short, sharp and packed with curious campaigns and creative ideas.

In this episode, Tim and Piers roll out the red carpet for some of the quirkiest awareness days in the calendar—and the imaginative ways charities have brought them to life. From biscuit dunking to emoji donations, there’s no such thing as a dull moment when you mix fundraising with fun.

In This Episode:🍪 National Biscuit Day – Free biccies and biscuit-themed fundraisers from Age UK and Winston’s Wish. Custard creams, anyone?

📱 World Emoji Day – From Breast Cancer Now’s emoji-laden messages to WWF’s #EndangeredEmoji campaign turning animal emojis into donations.

🩲 National Underwear Day – How charities like Smalls for All and Cocotree Kids have turned pants into a powerful way to promote body positivity and dignity.

📚 World Book Day – Book-themed dress-ups and reading marathons raising awareness and books for communities in need, led by charities like Book Aid International.

☀️ Random Acts of Kindness Day – Charities taking generosity to the streets with surprise flowers, coffee and kindness.

Whether you're a fundraiser looking for creative ideas or just love a good biscuit, this episode has something to brighten your day.

Have you run a quirky awareness day campaign?We want to hear about it! Tag us on socials or email your best ideas—your campaign might feature in a future episode.

👉 Next time: We're back with a full-length episode featuring the Stroke Association’s Chief Executive.

Follow & Subscribe📌 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a fun campaign or story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message!
📌 All the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters

(00:09) Welcome & intro to the quirkiest charity awareness days
(01:00) National Biscuit Day – community cafés and biscuit giveaways
(02:30) World Emoji Day – digital symbols with real fundraising power
(04:00) National Underwear Day – pants with a purpose
(05:30) Random Acts of Kindness & World Book Day impact
(09:00) Final thoughts and a heads-up for National Doughnut Day

🔗 #CharityPodcast #AwarenessDays #CreativeCampaigns #FundraisingIdeas #TheCharityShow

It’s a milestone moment for The Charity Show! In our 25th episode, hosts Tim and Piers celebrate one year of powerful conversations, unforgettable guests, and deep dives into the issues shaping the UK charity sector.

This week, they’re joined by Juliette Bouverie OBE, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association, to explore the remarkable Sing for Stroke campaign - an innovative initiative that highlights how music can help stroke survivors recover their ability to communicate.

In This Episode:

🎂 Celebrating one year of The Charity Show – reflections, highlights, and the guests who’ve shaped the journey so far.
🎤 Sing for Stroke – Juliette Bouverie explains how music therapy is helping survivors sing even when they struggle to speak.
📉 Charity pay gaps – alarming new data shows a quarter of junior charity roles pay below the Real Living Wage.
📢 Small Charity Spotlights – meet Parental Alienation Awareness UK and Wiltshire Digital Drive CIC, two small but mighty organisations creating big change.

Whether you’re new to the show or a regular listener, this episode delivers a mix of inspiration, sector insight and real talk.

Useful links:

• Stroke Association – Learn more about the Sing for Stroke campaign and support services.

• Parental Alienation Awareness UK – Inclusive support and advocacy for families affected by parental alienation.

• Wiltshire Digital Drive CIC – Fighting digital exclusion and e-waste in the South West.

• Real Living Wage Foundation – Info on voluntary Living Wage rates in the UK.

• CharityJob Salary Report 2025 – Explore key findings on pay trends in the third sector.

Chapters:

(00:00) Happy 1st Birthday to The Charity Show!
(02:30) Reflections on a year of charity insights & guest highlights
(10:45) Juliette Brivne on leading the Stroke Association & Sing for Stroke
(36:20) Third Sector News: Real Living Wage & Macmillan controversy
(48:10) Small Charity Spotlights: Parental Alienation Awareness UK & Wiltshire Digital Drive
(52:30) Looking ahead to Year Two of the podcast

Get in touch:

📌 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Share your charity stories or nominate a small charity by emailing us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com.
📌 Find all the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 Loved the episode? Please leave a five-star review and subscribe—it helps more people discover the show!

🔗 #CharityPodcast #StrokeAwareness #SingForStroke #SmallCharities #TheCharityShow #CharitySector

Volunteers are the heartbeat of the third sector—but how do we inspire and retain them in an age of changing expectations, busy lives, and digital distractions?

In this special pre-Volunteers' Week episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with two of the sector’s most passionate volunteer advocates: Flik Walls from WCVA and Alice O'Boyle from Volunteer Now.

Together, they explore how volunteering is evolving—from flexible, micro-opportunities to family-friendly roles—and why charities need to reimagine how they engage, celebrate and support their volunteers.

In This Episode:

✨ What makes a meaningful volunteer experience in 2025? From awards to personal thank-yous and impact storytelling.

⏳ Why micro-volunteering matters—and how it could help charities reach new audiences and build lifelong supporters.

👥 The rise of family and intergenerational volunteering—and how it promotes inclusion, empathy and community cohesion.

🚨 The often overlooked role of volunteer managers—and why they deserve better support, training and recognition.

🚀 Practical advice for small charities on starting or scaling volunteer programmes, even with limited resources.

If your organisation relies on volunteers, this is an essential listen to help you navigate today’s challenges and prepare for the future of volunteering.

Useful Links

• 
  

  Volunteer Now

• 
  

  WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action)

• 
  

  Volunteers’ Week UK

• The Family Volunteering Club

  
  

Chapters:

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 26(02:17) The last couple of weeks(09:19) Introducing Flik and Alice(34:31) Third Sector News(43:54) Flik and Alice - Part 2(1:08:58) Small charity spotlight(1:13:30) Coming up next time

Get Involved:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.

📧 Share your charity’s story or nominate a small charity for a future spotlight: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com

🔗 For all links and episodes: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow

⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss an update!

#CharityPodcast #VolunteersWeek #MicroVolunteering #FamilyVolunteering #VolunteerManagers #ThirdSector #TheCharityShow

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your charity sector espresso shot, brewed just in time for Volunteers’ Week. This episode is packed with real-life stories of volunteers making a difference in ways big and small—from book giveaways to vegetable boxes, and one very mischievous rescue cat.

Tim and Piers share uplifting, funny, and sometimes chaotic tales from across the UK—proving just how much volunteers bring to their communities and charities every day.

In This Episode:

📚 Doncaster's Literacy Champions – Volunteers handing out 8,000+ books and spreading a love of reading through the Doncaster Stories campaign.

🌿 Sutton Community Farm – A thriving volunteer-led urban farm where locals grow, pack and deliver veg boxes with a side of community spirit.

🏎️ Scarborough's Dial A Ride – Volunteer Jonathan Keir has spent 11 years driving minibuses for older and disabled people, helping them stay connected and independent.

🧅 The Great Cat Escape – A Norfolk volunteer mission goes hilariously wrong when Buttons the cat stages a mid-transit breakout, sparking a tuna-fuelled rescue.

Follow & Subscribe

📍 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📧 Got a volunteering story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com or send us a voice message!
🔗 Find all the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters:

(00:09) Welcome to our Volunteers' Week special
(01:00) Birgit's story and the Atwal family fundraiser
(04:40) Doncaster Literacy Champions spread the joy of reading
(06:55) Sutton Community Farm’s volunteers grow more than veg
(09:15) Jonathan and the Dial A Ride legacy
(11:05) Buttons the cat and the wildest volunteer shift ever
(13:00) Final thoughts: why volunteers matter more than ever

#CharityPodcast #VolunteersWeek #VolunteerStories #CommunityHeroes #TheCharityShow

AI is already transforming the third sector—but are charities ready?

In this episode of The Charity Show, Tim and Piers are joined by two of the sector’s leading digital thinkers: Zoe Amar and Dan Sutch, co-founders of the new Charity AI Task Force. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is being used across the sector, the risks it poses, and how organisations can embrace it ethically and strategically.

In This Episode:

🤖 AI adoption in charities – With 76% of the sector now using AI, what does implementation really look like in practice?

🔒 Ethics, data safety & bias – Why a policy is essential and what charities must consider before hitting “generate.”

💬 The power of collaboration – Why no organisation should face this challenge alone, and how the Task Force is working to support the whole sector.

🌍 AI for good – Real examples of charities using AI to improve services, amplify voices, and drive social change.

🚀 Preparing for what’s next – What AI will mean for the sector in five years, and how to future-proof your organisation now.

Whether you're excited or uncertain about AI, this episode is your guide to navigating it with confidence and care.

Useful links:

• Charity AI Task Force

• Zoe Amar Digital

• CAST (Centre for the Acceleration of Social Technology)

• 2025 Charity Digital Skills Report

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to the show

(08:06) Zoe, Dan and the Charity AI Taskforce

(30:42) News

(38:20) Interview Part 2

(01:02:08) Small charity spotlight

Follow & Subscribe

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📧 Got a story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 For all links: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed this episode? Leave a five-star review and subscribe to stay updated!

#CharityPodcast #AIinCharity #DigitalEthics #CharityTech #SocialImpact #TheCharityShow

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your espressoshot of charity stories and sector surprises.

This week, Tim and Piers turn the spotlight on those who usually avoid it: celebrities who support charities quietly, generously and without fuss. From surprise hospital visits to million-pound donations, these are the untold stories of famous faces making a real impact behind the scenes.

In This Episode:

🌟 George Michael – Secret donations, shelter volunteering, and a Deal or No Deal moment that changed a life.

💇‍♀️ The Princess of Wales – Donates her hair anonymously to the Little Princess Trust.

🎶 Ed Sheeran & Kylie Minogue – Low-key benefit gigs and charity shop guitar donations that raised thousands.

👤 Stephen Fry & Benedict Cumberbatch – From uncredited audiobooks to wardrobe giveaways for good.

💼 ICAP Charity Day & Steve Morgan Foundation – The financiers and foundations funding change, often under the radar.

🤔 Russell Howard & Dominic West – Unexpected supermarket acts and sausage donations.

💪 Tom Hardy & Adele – Surprise visits, secret acts of kindness, and a cake drop with a fridge photo twist.

Have you heard of a celebrity quietly backing a cause? Letus know!

Follow & Subscribe

📍 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📧 Got a story or secret act of kindness to share? Email us atthecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 All the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters:

(00:09) Welcome & intro to celebrity support behind thescenes
(01:10) George Michael, Kate Middleton & quiet gestures
(03:40) Ed Sheeran, Kylie & the secret pub gigs
(06:00) Stephen Fry, Benedict Cumberbatch & audiobooks for good
(08:10) Steve Morgan, ICAP & the financial world of giving
(10:00) Russell Howard, sausages & supermarket kindness
(11:25) Tom Hardy, Adele & unexpected visits that matter
(13:00) Final thoughts & unsung heroes

#CharityPodcast #QuietGiving #CelebritySupport#TheCharityShow #CharityBites

What happens when a yoghurt brand becomes a major force for good? In this episode of The Charity Show, hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley speak to Vicky Bryant, Head of Culture at Muller UK, to explore how a household name has transformed its community engagement from small donations to redistributing over 4 million meals through their partnership with food charity FairShare.

Hear how Muller embeds social impact into its companyculture - and what charities of all sizes can learn about collaboration, employee engagement, and creating truly transformational partnerships.

In This Episode:

🥣 How a yoghurt brand turned its local donations into a nationwide impact with FairShare
🏭 The operational side of charity partnerships—from food logistics to employee volunteering
💡 Why flexibility and communication are key to long-term charity–corporate success
📈 From CSR to ROI—how community work builds brand loyalty and boosts internal culture
🧠 Advice for small charities looking to connect with major brands (yes, even Muller!)

This is a fresh perspective from the other side of thecharity–corporate coin, and a must-listen for anyone involved in partnerships, fundraising, or brand alignment.

Chapters:

(00:00) Welcome to Episode 28
(09:01) From fruit corners to food redistribution: Viki Bryant interview part 1(24:47) Third sector news
(30:29) Viki Bryant interview part 2
(48:57) Small Charity Spotlight: Muirhead Outreach Project & Their Future Today

Useful Links:

• FairShare – Fighting hunger and food waste in the UK

• Muirhead Outreach Project – Supporting families in Scotland to stay together

• Their Future Today – Reuniting children with families in Sri Lanka

• TCS London Marathon – Learn how your charity can take part

• Macmillan Cancer Support – Health and advocacy services

• British Heart Foundation – Leading research and support for heart health

Get Involved:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favourite platform
📧 Want to share your story or nominate a small charity for a spotlight? Email: thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗Find everything at: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoying the show? Please leave us a five-star review and hit follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode!

#CharityPodcast #CorporatePartnerships #FoodWaste #FairShare #CSR #ThirdSector #TheCharityShow #SmallCharities #EmployeeVolunteering#Sustainability #CharityFundraising

What happens when you take a breast cancer awareness charity known for glitter, cheekiness and giant boob costumes - and ask them to make a legacy film?

In this heartfelt and surprising episode of The Charity Show, Tim and Piers are joined by Zsuzi Kiss from Coppafeel! and Emma Bracegirdle from The Saltways, the creative agency behind Coppafeel!’s bold new legacy campaign.

Together, they explore how to approach legacy giving with compassion, creativity and authenticity—and share the powerful story behind the short film Sue’s Story, which led to a 300% increase in pledges.

In This Episode:

🎬 How Coppafeel! created a legacy campaign that’s joyful, powerful - and definitely not boring.
👵 Why ethical storytelling matters - and how to support real people sharing their personal stories.
💡 Practical advice for charities looking to reframe their legacy messaging for modern audiences.
📈 The impact of Sue’s Story - and how co-creation, trust, and impact-led messaging made all the difference.
📰 Plus: Third sector news on soft opt-in marketing rules, and whether a 4-day week is the future for charities.

Whether your charity is just starting to think about legacy fundraising or looking for new ways to reach different audiences, this episode is full of ideas and inspiration to help you do it differently.

Useful Links:

• 🎥 Watch Sue’s Story – Legacy Film by Coppafeel!

• 💖 Coppafeel! Legacy Giving

• 🎬 The Saltways – Ethical Films for Charities

• ✍️ Farewill – Write Your Will for Free

• 📘 Fundraising Regulator – Soft Opt-In Guidance

• 🗓️ The Smiley Charity Film Awards

Chapters:

(02:02) Welcome to Episode 29
(09:38) Introducing Zsuzi and Emma
(10:33) Zsuzi and Emma interview - Part 1
(17:25) Making legacy content for a younger brand—without losing older donors
(36:14) Third sector news
(44:37) Zsuzi and Emma interview - Part 2
(01:01:24) Small charity spotlight

Get Involved

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📧 Got a legacy story to share—or want to spotlight a small charity? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 Find every link you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

#CharityPodcast #LegacyGiving #EthicalStorytelling #Coppafeel #TheSaltways #CharityFilm #ThirdSector #TheCharityShow #FundraisingInnovation

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites! Your sun-soaked shot of charity sector fun, facts and fundraising flair.

This week, Tim and Piers break out the factor 50 and dive into the weirdest, wildest and most wonderful summer charity stunts. From flamingos on your lawn to solar-baked brownies and business suits in the sea, these are the ideas that made people laugh, donate and—most importantly—remember the cause.

In This Episode:

🍦 The world’s largest human ice cream cone – Breast Cancer Now go all-in on ponchos and cherry hats in Regent's Park.

🌊 Paddleboarding for mental health – 215 miles, moody swans, and serious fundraising for Mind in Haringey.

😼 Cat yoga with Cats Protection – Stretch, breathe, and avoid stepping on a snoozing feline during a sun salutation.

🌞 Solar-baked brownies in Devon – Macmillan supporters ditch the oven and harness the sun to raise thousands.

🏖️ Suits in the sea – Hastings businesspeople march into the Channel in full workwear for St Michael’s Hospice.

💜 Flamingo invasion – The RSPB's pink plastic prank raises over £100k for bird conservation.

🍋 The world's biggest lemonade stand – The Liny Foundation recruits hundreds of kids to raise £150,000 in one sunny day.

Follow & Subscribe:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show Bites on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📧 Got a summer story to share? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 All the links you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe so you never miss what’s next!

Chapters:

(00:09) Welcome to our summer special
(01:05) Giant ice cream cones and the power of pink
(02:10) Paddleboarding the Thames with Mind in Haringey
(03:40) Cat yoga: adorable or distracting?
(04:50) Solar ovens, ice cream vans and heatwave baking
(06:00) Suits in the Sea: raising eyebrows and funds in Hastings
(07:00) Flamingo flocking and front garden fundraising
(08:10) Kids + squash = lemonade fundraising gold
(09:10) Final thoughts: your weirdest summer campaign stories

#CharityPodcast #SummerFundraising #WeirdCampaigns #CharityIdeas #TheCharityShow #CharityBites

What happens when a young person is forced out of education due to serious illness—and who’s helping them get back on track?

In this inspiring episode, we speak to Josh Pelled, founder and CEO of Bright Futures UK, the only UK charity dedicated to helping young people aged 5–24 re-engage with education after long-term illness.

Josh shares how his own experience of childhood cancer led to launching a national charity before he turned 25. He reflects on what he’s learned about starting and scaling a small charity, why lived experience should shape service design, and how Bright Futures is now pushing for policy change to close an invisible gap in education.

💡 Whether you're in youth work, health, education or fundraising, this episode offers a powerful reminder of what happens when resilience meets purpose.

Useful Links:

🌐 Bright Futures UK – Personalised support for young people out of education due to illness
🙋‍♀️ Volunteer with Bright Futures UK – Use your skills to make a direct impact
👥 Connect with Josh Pelled on LinkedIn
🧠 The Calm Corner – Affordable mental health support in Essex
🦋 Flutter – Comfort packs for kidney cancer patients

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro and small charity spotlight: Flutter

(02:00) Meet Josh: Cancer survivor and charity founder

(07:00) Returning to school after serious illness

(11:00) How Bright Futures UK began—from one hospital session to national charity

(16:00) Personalised support: tutoring, mentoring and befriending

(20:00) The impact of volunteers—and what they gain in return

(26:00) Charity news: A banned vegan ad and a missile in a donation bag

(33:00) Working with NHS trusts, schools and other partners

(37:00) The hidden scale of the problem—and why no one is tracking it

(40:00) Policy change and awareness raising: what’s next

(43:30) How to volunteer, refer or support

(45:00) Small Charity Spotlights: The Calm Corner and Flutter

(48:00) Wrap-up and what’s coming next

Get Involved:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform
📧 Got a story to share - or want to nominate a small charity for our spotlight? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 Find every link you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

#CharityPodcast #TheCharityShow #BrightFuturesUK #SmallCharity #YouthSupport #CancerSurvivor #VolunteerPower #EducationInequality #ThirdSectorVoices #CharityLeadership #YoungFounders #LivedExperience #UKCharities #SocialImpact #CharitySpotlight

Can charities achieve more when they stop competing and start collaborating—even on the biggest goals of all, like curing Parkinson’s and dementia?

In this episode, Tim and Piers sit down with Helen Matthews (CEO, Cure Parkinson’s) and Dr Leah Mursaleen (Head of Clinical Research, Alzheimer’s Research UK) to explore a ground-breaking partnership between two of the UK’s leading medical research charities.

The pair reveal how the joint project is helping scientists and patients work together to design faster, fairer, more effective research - and why collaboration, not competition, is the only way forward when you’re tackling global health challenges.

💡 Plus: what good patient involvement actually looks like, why language matters, and how this partnership is challenging power dynamics in medical research.

Useful links:

Cure Parkinson’s

Alzheimer’s Research UK

The Children's Hyperinsulinism Charity

Hope For Epilepsy

Chapters:

(00:28) Coming up

(02:03) Off on hols

(05:55) Introducing Helen and Leah

(07:05) Helen and Leah - Part 1

(26:37) Third sector news

(32:38) Helen and Leah - Part 2

(54:44) Small charity spotlight

(58:19) See you soon

Get involved:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform
📧 Got a collaboration story to share—or want to spotlight a small charity? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 Find every link you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

What happens to struggling families when school meals stop over the summer - and how are UK charities filling the gap?

In this week’s Bites episode, Tim and Piers dive into the hidden pressures of the school holidays and spotlight the charities working hard to provide free food, clubs, trips and vital support for families.

From Feeding Families in Gateshead to Summer Spud Club in Jersey, plus new grants, youth jobs, and no-stigma food support—this episode’s packed with quick, practical examples of how the sector shows up when it counts.

So if you’re working on, funding, or just curious about holiday support programmes, this one’s for you.

Chapters: (00:47) Holiday hunger and the HAF programme(01:35) Scottish free meals scheme(02:39) Feeding Families – holiday hunger packs(03:08) Caring Cooks – hot meals and Summer Spud Club(03:46) Family Action’s summer trips(04:22) Theatres, museums, pop-ups: finding free fun(05:08) Summer skills and youth job programmes(06:10) Tesco’s donation bags and Stronger Starts(07:18) Household Support Fund and where to apply(08:39) Final thoughts – and tell us what you’re up to!Useful Links:

🍽️ Holiday Activities and Food Programme (England)🥔 Caring Cooks – Summer Spud Club (Jersey)📦 Feeding Families (Gateshead)🎉 Family Action Summer Fund🎭 Scottish Sun – 100+ Free Days Out Guide🛠️ London Youth – Summer Skills Grants💼 UK Youth – Summer Jobs Programme🛍️ Tesco Stronger Starts + FairShare Partnership💰 Household Support Fund Info

Get Involved

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform
📧 Got a summer campaign to shout about? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
🔗 Find every link you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

#CharityPodcast #TheCharityShow #SchoolHolidaySupport #SummerHunger #HAFProgramme #HolidayClubs #ThirdSector #UKCharities #SmallCharities #YouthSupport #SummerGrants #FeedingFamilies #CharityShowBites

What happens to all the tents, bags and buggies we leave behind at festivals, airports and train stations—and how do charities turn them into something good?

This week, Tim and Piers rummage through the weird and wonderful world of lost property. From Glastonbury tents upcycled into fashion to TfL’s forgotten baby buggies finding new homes, we explore how abandoned items aren’t always waste—they can become shelter, fundraising, or even a brand-new coat.

Expect stories of salvaged camping gear, airport mystery suitcase auctions, charity donations from the London Underground, and a stuffed dog called De Rover. Proof that even the things we lose can create wins for the people who need them most.

Useful Links:

⛺ Emmaus Hertfordshire – Supporting people experiencing homelessness🛟 Hearts for Refugees – Redirecting tents and supplies to displaced people👕 Ritri Clothing – Festival tents reborn as sustainable fashion🍲 Feeding Families – Community food support in the North East🚇 TfL Lost Property – Where your lost items end up👶 Little Village – Baby bank supporting families across London

Chapters:

(00:00) Intro – The charity world of lost property(00:30) Abandoned tents at festivals put to good use(01:20) Ritri Clothing: Upcycling tents into fashion(02:30) Reading Festival’s 71 tons of waste salvaged for food banks and shelters(03:40) Airport mystery auctions: treasure or trash?(05:30) TfL’s lost property – £2m for charity plus some odd finds(06:45) Baby buggies, books and toys donated to Little Village(07:20) Sunderland Metro auctions: guitars, pogo sticks and bunk bed ladders(08:30) Personal stories of things lost and found(09:20) Closing thoughts – why losing something might still do some good

Get Involved:

📍 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform📧 Got a lost property story—or has your charity benefited from one? Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com🔗 Find every link you need: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow⭐ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

#CharityPodcast #TheCharityShow #CharityShowBites #LostProperty #FestivalWaste #Upcycling #SustainableFashion #Emmaus #Ritri #TfL #LittleVillage #CharityInnovation #ThirdSectorVoices #SmallCharities

Welcome back to The Charity Show, the charity podcast that lifts the lid on life inside UK charities. Real stories, expert tips and the behind-the-scenes moments that make the sector tick.

This week, we’re joined by Evie Dickinson, Head of Fundraising and Communications at the Prison Radio Association (PRA)—the groundbreaking charity behind the world’s first national radio station for people in prison.

For nearly twenty years, PRA has been running National Prison Radio, a station made by prisoners, for prisoners. Broadcasting 24/7 into cells across England and Wales, it’s not just entertainment—it’s a lifeline. From tackling isolation to inspiring rehabilitation, it’s changing lives and shifting perceptions.

In this episode, we explore:

• 🎙️ The origins of prison radio and how it began as a response to mental health crises inside.

• 📻 What makes radio such a powerful tool for connection compared with podcasts or TV.

• 🌍 How the hit podcast Life After Prison supports prison leavers—and has already reached over 10 million listeners.

• ✍️ The creativity sparked by shows like Free Flow, encouraging prisoners to write rap bars and poetry.

• 🚪 Inspiring success stories: from serving time to winning industry awards and working at the BBC.

• ⚖️ The ongoing challenge of public perception—and why charities must use storytelling to demonstrate real impact.

Alongside our interview with Evie, Tim and Piers also unpack the week’s charity news:

• A refugee-sector charity accused of pushing politics into the classroom after a Valentine’s campaign.

• Cancer Research UK’s polarising social media exchange with Jeremy Clarkson - and what it reveals about when charities should (and shouldn’t) chase humour online.

And of course, our Small Charity Spotlight shines on two brilliant organisations quietly making a huge difference:

• Positive Path Foundation – supporting young people with autism and hidden disabilities through social opportunities and life skills.

• Growing Hope – providing free therapy for children with additional needs in partnership with local churches.

👉 Whether you’re a charity professional, a communications lead, or simply curious about unheard voices, this episode shows the transformative power of radio and why giving people a platform can change lives.

Chapters:

00:00 – Back from holiday: inbox dread and coping with the heat

08:50 – Interview with Evie Dickinson (part one): origins of the Prison Radio Association

24:34 – Charity news: political campaigns in schools and social media misfires

32:14 – Interview with Evie Dickinson (part two): impact, funding and future goals

54:01 – Small charity spotlight: Positive Path Foundation & Growing Hope

57:31 – Wrap-up and what’s coming soon on The Charity Show

Get involved:

• Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform
• Got a collaboration story to share—or want to spotlight a small charity?
• Email us at ⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠
• Find every link you need: ⁠https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow⁠ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

💡 If you enjoyed this episode of The Charity Show, please follow, subscribe and leave a five-star review on your podcast app. It helps more people in the sector find our conversations with charity experts across the UK.

Welcome back to The Charity Show - the charity podcast that lifts the lid on life inside UK charities, with real stories, expert tips and the behind-the-scenes moments that make the sector tick.

This week, Tim and Piers are joined by Stephanie Slater MBE, founder and Chief Executive of School Food Matters, the charity that has been transforming children’s experiences of food in schools for almost two decades.

What began with one frustrated parent asking why school meals had to be so poor has grown into a national movement influencing policy at the highest levels. Along the way, Stephanie has earned an MBE and built a team changing how children learn about, eat and value food.

In this episode, we cover:

• 🍽️ The early days of campaigning as a parent and how it snowballed into a fully-fledged charity.

• 🥦 Why hands-on food education—growing veg, cooking meals, market stalls—remains central to School Food Matters’ mission.

• 🎓 Leadership lessons from 18 years of scaling a charity while staying mission-led.

• 📊 The recent policy win extending free school meals to more families—and why it’s only part of the bigger picture.

• 🥕 The charity’s 2030 strategy: “better food on every plate” and tackling systemic barriers in school catering.

• 💡 Stephanie’s advice for new founders, chief executives and parent campaigners who want to change the system.

In between parts one and two of the interview, Tim and Piers dig into the latest charity news:

• CAF’s research revealing that three-quarters of UK businesses give nothing to charity - what this means for funding, and why corporate giving must change.

• The Great North Run medal blunder - how 60,000 runners ended up with a souvenir featuring the wrong map.

And of course, the Small Charity Spotlight shines this week on:

• • Women’s Aid North East Lincolnshire – supporting women, children and male victims through refuge, outreach, and a new domestic abuse hub.
  • Sharewear Clothing Scheme – tackling clothing poverty across the East Midlands, supporting 25,000 people a year while saving hundreds of tonnes of clothing from landfill.

• 👉 Whether you’re passionate about food policy, curious about how local campaigns scale into national movements, or looking for leadership wisdom from experienced charity experts, this conversation with Stephanie shows how persistence, optimism and storytelling can transform lives.

Useful links

• School Food Matters – schoolfoodmatters.org

• Stephanie Slater MBE on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/stephanie-slater

• School Food Review – the coalition pushing for better policy on school food

• CAF Corporate Giving Report 2025 – cafonline.org

• Great North Run – official event page: greatrun.org/events/great-north-run

• Women’s Aid North East Lincolnshire – womensaidnel.org

• Sharewear Clothing Scheme – sharewearclothingscheme.org

• The Good Studio – Tim’s new creative venture for charities: thegoodstudio.co.uk

  
  

The Good Studio

This show is now produced by The Good Studio - a new creative partner for charities. Founded by The Charity Show’s Tim Beynon, it helps charities tell their stories through powerful content, podcasts and campaigns - without the big agency price tag.

Get involved and get in touch

• Email us at thecharityshowpod@gmail.com
• Leave us a voice message HERE
• Find all our links HERE

💡 If you enjoyed this episode of The Charity Show, please follow, subscribe and leave a five-star review on your podcast app. It helps more people discover conversations with charity experts across the UK.

This episode is produced by ⁠⁠The Good Studio⁠⁠ – Creating great content for good causes. From podcasts and campaigns to film and copywriting, The Good Studio helps charities tell powerful stories that make people care.👉 Find out more at ⁠⁠www.thegoodstudio.co.uk ⁠

Welcome to The Charity Show Bites, the charity podcast bringing you quick-fire stories, insights and surprises from across the UK third sector.

This time, we’re tackling something every parent knows too well: the back-to-school season. September means new shoes, PE kits and endless stationery lists—but for many families, it also means mounting costs and added pressure. In this Charity Show bonus episode, Tim and Piers uncover the brilliant ways charities, volunteers and councils are stepping up to help.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• 👕 Uniform swaps – from Huddersfield’s 40,000-item mega project to Tracy Morgan’s living-room initiative that now supports 1,500 families.

• 🏫 Community schemes – how local volunteers and councils are running free exchanges and pop-up shops.

• 💸 Tower Hamlets’ bold pilot – universal uniform payments to help thousands of families, without means testing.

• 🥣 Magic Breakfast – giving over 200,000 pupils a healthy start to the day.

• 📚 Books not screens – charities like The Children’s Book Project and Book Trust helping children build their own libraries.

• 💛 Mental health support – Young Minds’ toolkit easing back-to-school anxiety for pupils, parents and teachers.

We also reflect on the bigger picture: branded uniform costs, hidden family sacrifices, and how the sector keeps finding practical, grassroots solutions.

👉 Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or working in the third sector, this episode shows the difference that charity experts and community champions can make during one of the toughest times of year.

Get involved

💡 If you’re enjoying The Charity Show and our bitesize episodes, don’t forget to follow, subscribe and leave a five-star review. It helps more people discover conversations with charity experts across the UK.

🎧 Listen now and explore more from The Charity Show on LinkTree at: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow.

Welcome to The Charity Show Bites - your quick-fire dose of surprising stories, sector insights and the odd fact you can impress your colleagues with over a cuppa.

This week we’re going a little bit international. With President Trump’s UK visit making headlines last week, Tim and Piers take a whistle-stop tour of the incredible ways UK and US charities have teamed up, swapped ideas and raised millions. From silly challenges to world-changing philanthropy, it turns out some of the biggest charity moments of the last century have been transatlantic collaborations.

In this episode, we cover:

• 🤡 Comic Relief & Red Nose Day – from Richard Curtis and Lenny Henry in 1985 to Jimmy Fallon and NBC in the US, raising billions either side of the Atlantic.

• ❄️ The Ice Bucket Challenge – the viral 2014 phenomenon that raised over £115m for ALS in the US and £7m for MND research in the UK—directly funding breakthrough discoveries.

• 💉 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation + Wellcome Trust – two of the richest foundations in the world pooling resources for vaccine research, malaria and epidemic preparedness.

• 🎶 Live Aid (1985) & Live 8 (2005) – London, Philadelphia, Queen, Bowie, Madonna, billions of viewers, and $150m for famine relief.

• 🌍 Elton John AIDS Foundation – deliberately transatlantic from the start, raising $565m across the UK and US.

• 🐦 RSPB & Audubon Society – both born out of campaigns against the feather trade in the 1800s, still working together today on bird conservation.

• 📺 Stand Up To Cancer – launched in the US in 2008 before becoming a UK TV fixture with Channel 4 and Cancer Research UK.

Get involved

💡 If you’re enjoying The Charity Show and our bitesize episodes, don’t forget to follow, subscribe and leave a five-star review. It helps more people in the sector find us.

🎧 Listen now and catch up on all episodes of The Charity Show HERE.

Or, send us a message, use our get in touch or leave us a voice message via our LinkTree page HERE

This episode is produced by ⁠⁠The Good Studio⁠⁠ – Creating great content for good causes. From podcasts and campaigns to film and copywriting, The Good Studio helps charities tell powerful stories that make people care.👉 Find out more at ⁠⁠www.thegoodstudio.co.uk ⁠

School holidays should mean fun, friends and freedom – but for too many families, the reality is stress, screens and tough choices. In this episode, Tim and Piers explore the idea of activity hunger with Anna Hoddinott from John Lyon’s Charity.

We’ve all heard about holiday hunger and food insecurity, but activity hunger is just as real: the lack of affordable, engaging opportunities for children when school is out. Anna shares powerful insights on:

• Why missing out on fun and play impacts children’s confidence, learning and friendships.

• How John Lyon’s Charity has supported thousands of families with its School Holiday Activity Fund.

• What needs to change at a policy level to help parents juggle work, childcare and holiday costs.

• The perfect storm of cost of living pressures, safety fears and social media pressures that make this challenge even harder today.

Plus, we look at some of the week’s big charity news stories – including a strong joint response from UK autism charities to Donald Trump’s latest bizarre health claims, and how several high-profile organisations handled the fallout from the Epstein files with swift, decisive crisis comms.

And don’t miss our Small Charity Spotlight:

• The Moving On Project Portsmouth – rehoming free furniture and household items to families in need.

• Boost at DCHS – giving rural young people the opportunities and support they often miss out on.

Useful Links

• John Lyon’s Charity – jlc.london

• Learn more about the School Holiday Activity Fund

• Moving On Project Portsmouth

• Boost at DCHS

  
  

Get involved:

• Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform
• Got a collaboration story to share—or want to spotlight a small charity?
• Email us at ⁠⁠thecharityshowpod@gmail.com⁠⁠
• Find every link you need: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow⁠⁠ Enjoyed the episode? Leave a five-star review and follow/subscribe to support the show!

💡 If you enjoyed this episode of The Charity Show, please follow, subscribe and leave a five-star review on your podcast app. It helps more people in the sector find our conversations with charity experts across the UK.

This episode is produced by ⁠⁠The Good Studio⁠⁠ – Creating great content for good causes. From podcasts and campaigns to film and copywriting, The Good Studio helps charities tell powerful stories that make people care.👉 Find out more at ⁠⁠www.thegoodstudio.co.uk ⁠

Welcome back to The Charity Show Bites, your quick-fire dose of surprising stories, sector insights and the odd fact you can impress your colleagues with over a cuppa.

This week, Tim and Piers celebrate World Animal Day, which marked its 100th anniversary on October 4th, 2025. From street fundraisers and surprise donations to pop-star scarecrows, this episode shines a light on the brilliant animal charities and community projects helping creatures great and small.

In this episode, we explore:

• 🐾 Scottish SPCA’s biggest ever World Animal Day fundraiser – 33 street collections across 15 council areas, powered by hundreds of volunteers.

• 🐴 Remus Horse Sanctuary – open day celebrations in Essex, complete with rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.

• 🐶 £100,000 surprise for Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary – presented by Paddy McGuinness at the Pets Foundation Ball in Liverpool.

• 🐕 Cost of living crisis – new data from the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes showing 97% of rescues face rising demand.

• 🐇 Naturewatch Foundation’s Pet Rescue Grants – microgrants changing lives for small rescue centres like the Bunny Jackpot Foundation and Hope Rescue.

• 🏆 Petplan & ADCH Animal Charity Awards 2025 – celebrating the sector’s unsung heroes, from Cotswold Dogs & Cats Home to British Divers Marine Life Rescue.

• 🌾 Minskip Scarecrow Weekend – North Yorkshire’s eccentric pop-star-themed fundraiser featuring Elvis, Bowie, Madonna… and a surprisingly realistic Meatloaf.

• 🌍 Save Animals, Save the Planet – this year’s global World Animal Day theme reminding us that protecting animals protects our shared environment too.

👉 Whether you’re a dog owner, a donkey fan or just love a good feel-good story, this episode is a cheerful snapshot of how the charity world continues to champion animal welfare, 100 years on from the first World Animal Day.

Useful links

• World Animal Day – worldanimalday.org.uk

• Scottish SPCA – scottishspca.org

• Remus Horse Sanctuary – remussanctuary.org

• Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary

• Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) – adch.org.uk

• Naturewatch Foundation – naturewatch.org