The Charity Changemakers Podcast

Adam Stacey
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The Charity Changemakers Podcast dives deep into the world of non-profit leadership. Join us as we interview the CEOs and directors who are making a real impact in our communities. Each episode unveils the journeys that led these passionate individuals to the third sector. We explore the inspiring stories behind their charities, the challenges they navigate, and the exciting opportunities they're tackling. Get ready to be motivated by the power of giving and discover how you can get involved in creating positive change.

  1. Season 3 | E1 Ben Drabble on why job sharing might be the smartest charity leadership move

    5D AGO

    Season 3 | E1 Ben Drabble on why job sharing might be the smartest charity leadership move

    In this episode of the Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam is joined by Ben Drabble, Chief Executive of Train, to explore a refreshingly honest charity career journey - from international mission, to fundraising leadership, to local youth work on his doorstep. Ben shares how he stepped into his first Director role through a pure job share model - one inbox, one calendar, total trust - and why job sharing can be an incredibly effective (and often overlooked) way of opening up senior leadership to people with caring responsibilities. Together, Adam and Ben unpack: What a pure job share really looks like at Director levelWhy job shares have such a high success rate when done wellThe leadership growth that comes from shared responsibility and constant feedbackMoving from a large, international charity to leading a small local organisationTaking a £20k pay cut to gain lifestyle, alignment, and joy in workWhy mission alone is not enough if you don’t enjoy the day-to-dayThe danger of confusing aptitude with true career alignmentBen also reflects candidly on leadership development, career pivots, learning later in life, and why happiness can’t sit permanently on the far side of your next promotion. This is a thoughtful, grounded conversation for anyone navigating senior leadership, considering flexible working, or wrestling with what “success” really looks like in a charity career. Takeaways Career journeyJob sharingNetworkingFundraisingYouth work Leadership TransitionMission Alignment Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Career Journey05:59 Impact of Gap Year Programs12:45 Building Professional Networks20:09 Practicalities of Job Sharing29:19 Transition to Chief Executive Role41:16 Lessons in Leadership and Mission Alignment

    44 min
  2. S2 | E17 Rob Green on how to build a successful portfolio career

    11/13/2025

    S2 | E17 Rob Green on how to build a successful portfolio career

    Step into the world of portfolio careers with Rob Green, as he shares his journey from street fundraising to leading digital transformation projects. In this episode, Adam Stacey explores how Rob built a career that spans both charity and commercial sectors. Get insights on resilience, the growing role of technology in fundraising, and the importance of networking and personal branding.Discover Rob’s top lessons:From street fundraising to career reinventionHow switching sectors boosts your perspectiveThe growing impact of technology and AI on fundraisingDiversifying income streams for long-term successWhy personal branding and networking are essential for a fulfilling careerJoin us as we look into building a career with variety, purpose, and flexibility. Whether you're a fundraiser or looking to build a career with purpose, this episode offers practical advice to help you achieve long-term sustainability.☑️ Connect with Rob Green Here!- Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertgreencv/ - Company Website: https://www.hibridgit.com/ - Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hibridgit/ Chapters00:00 – Rob Green: An introduction06:14 – Finding purpose in street fundraising10:32 – Lessons from permanent roles in charities14:20 – Technology’s growing impact on fundraising18:12 – AI and the future of giving23:28 – Getting the best from digital platforms25:36 – Embracing AI and innovation27:57 – The portfolio career mindset31:02 – Building your network and personal brand40:07 – Advice for the next generation of fundraisers43:17 – Outro🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@CharityChangemakers/?sub_confirmation=1

    44 min
  3. S2 | E16 Howard Taylor on transforming child welfare and reuniting 280,000 children with families

    10/23/2025

    S2 | E16 Howard Taylor on transforming child welfare and reuniting 280,000 children with families

    In this powerful episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Howard Taylor, Chief Executive of Lumos Foundation — the global charity founded to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, loving family. Howard’s story spans the corridors of government, corporate boardrooms, and the United Nations. From his early years in India to leading international development efforts for the UK government, heading global programmes at the Nike Foundation, and tackling violence against children at the UN, his journey reveals how purpose and pragmatism can come together to drive real systemic change. This is a conversation about leadership, optimism, and what it takes to change systems that have failed children for generations. Howard shares the inside story of how Lumos has already helped reunite over 280,000 children with families — and why the charity is now focusing upstream, preventing family separation before it happens. Whether you work in the charity sector, government, or business, Howard’s reflections on cross-sector leadership, adaptability, and long-term impact will leave you inspired to think bigger about change. Howard Taylor leads Lumos Foundation, ensuring every child grows up in a loving family. Lumos has reunited over 280,000 children with families across the world. Howard’s career spans UK Government, Nike Foundation, and the United Nations. He shares lessons on resilience, purpose, and the power of optimism in leadership. Discover how corporate tools and public sector thinking can unite to deliver social impact. Learn why systemic change is the only way to truly transform global child welfare. 00:00 – Introduction to Howard Taylor and Lumos Foundation05:06 – The role of optimism in leadership07:50 – Journey into the charity sector10:40 – Early career in government and international development13:24 – From government to corporate philanthropy16:18 – The Girl Effect and the power of storytelling19:25 – Nonprofit vs corporate cultures24:35 – Lessons from early life and leadership26:49 – Tackling global challenges at the UN29:25 – Joining Lumos: a new chapter35:51 – Lumos Foundation’s mission and future40:02 – Howard’s reflections and advice Listen & shareThe Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.Follow, rate, and share to help inspire the next generation of changemakers.

    48 min
  4. S2 | Ep15 David Knott on AI in charity funding, building resilient communities, and leadership insights

    10/09/2025

    S2 | Ep15 David Knott on AI in charity funding, building resilient communities, and leadership insights

    In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with David Knott, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Community Fund — the UK’s largest grant-maker, awarding more than £700 million last year to over 12,000 community projects. David reflects on his career across public service, including time in the Prime Minister’s office, and shares what he’s learned since stepping into the charity sector. The conversation dives into the future of funding, from how AI could streamline grant applications to why community resilience and adaptability are more important than ever. He also opens up about the realities of leadership — the isolating moments, the need for support networks, and the lessons he’d pass on to his younger self. Whether you’re leading a charity, applying for grants, or curious about the changing role of the sector, this is a must-listen episode packed with insights. 👉 To find out how you can apply for National Lottery Community Fund support — especially for environmental projects — visit: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk Key takeaways The National Lottery Community Fund makes a grant every eight minutes Community resilience is central to tackling today’s challenges AI could transform the way charities apply for funding — but it must keep the human touch Charities play a powerful role in shaping public policy Leadership in the sector can feel isolating — but support is out there Moving from government to charity demands a fresh approach to leadership Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to David Knott and the National Lottery Community Fund 08:19 – David’s journey into the charity sector 12:03 – Leadership challenges in government and charity 19:44 – The evolving role of charities 23:11 – Responding to the cost-of-living crisis 28:20 – Making funding accessible and streamlined 31:17 – The role of AI in grant applications 33:27 – Connecting charities across regions 36:40 – Support systems for charity leaders 41:38 – Advice to his younger self 43:20 – Series 2 outro Listen & share🎧 The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow on your favourite platform — and don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review to help inspire the next generation of changemakers.

    44 min
  5. S2 | E14 Claire House-Norman with fundraising insights you need right now

    09/25/2025

    S2 | E14 Claire House-Norman with fundraising insights you need right now

    In this episode of the Charity Changemakers podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Claire House-Norman, Director and Fundraising Consultant at the Philanthropy Company. With more than three decades of experience in the charitysector, Claire reflects on her journey from community fundraising to major donor engagement and into consultancy. She highlights the power of relationship-building, the need for agility in times of financial uncertainty, and the evolving opportunities in donor engagement. Claire offers practical fundraising insights for today’s market, with a standout reminder about mid-level donors. Too often, this group sits unnoticed between community fundraising and major gifts, yet they hold huge potential. By segmenting your database by both gift size and frequency, you can uncover a pool of committed supporters who are primed for deeper engagement. Investing time in tailored stewardship for this mid-value segment can unlock significant growth and strengthen long-term donor relationships. Claire also shares how mentorship and personal traits such as curiosity and resilience have shaped her career, offering valuable insights for those looking to make their mark in the sector. Key takeaways Over 30 years’ experience in fundraising and PR A career journey from community fundraising to major donor engagement Agility is essential for charities navigating financial challenges Relationship fundraising is increasingly valuable, especially for mid-value donors Consultancy brings a fast-paced and dynamic working environment Curiosity and resilience are critical personal traits for fundraising success Mentorship and training are vital for developing the next generation of fundraisers The sector faces financial hurdles, but also opportunities for innovation Fundraising should always feel personal and one-to-one, even at scale Taking risks can lead to significant professional and personal growth Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Claire House-Norman07:02 – Claire’s Journey into Fundraising12:25 – Early Career Experiences and Learning18:00 – Transitioning to Major Donor Fundraising21:19 – Establishing Fundraising Departments23:27 – Building Relationships in Fundraising24:37 – The Importance of Passion in Recruitment25:10 – Innovative Approaches to Fundraising28:58 – Consultancy in Fundraising: A New Perspective32:00 – Trends in Fundraising: Mid-Value Donors34:52 – Navigating Challenges in the Charity Sector37:49 – Personal Traits for Success in Fundraising40:57 – Transitioning to Consultancy: Pros and Cons44:20 – Advice to My Younger Self45:07 – Series 2 – Outro Listen & shareThe Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, and don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review to help inspire the next generation of changemakers.

    46 min
  6. S2 | Ep13 Greg Allen on leadership, learning, and life-saving missions

    09/11/2025

    S2 | Ep13 Greg Allen on leadership, learning, and life-saving missions

    In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Greg Allen, Chief Executive of Devon Air Ambulance and Professor of Practice (Leadership) at Exeter University Business School. Greg shares his fascinating, non-linear career journey spanning financial services, the military, the NHS, and now the charity sector. He reflects on lessons learned from three decades of leadership, the influence of mentors and networks, and why he believes curiosity, discipline, and continual learning are the cornerstones of effective leadership. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of running a regional charity with a multi-million-pound turnover, the role of trustees, and the importance of balancing personal purpose with professional demands. Greg also discusses the value of giving back through teaching and mentoring, and why focusing on strengths is more powerful than obsessing over weaknesses. Whether you’re leading a team, considering a career change, or simply curious about what it takes to run a life-saving charity, this episode offers rich insights and encouragement. Careers don’t have to follow a straight line – non-linear paths can build resilience and breadth of skills Strong networks and peer support are vital for leaders navigating the pressures of chief executive roles Trustees are partners in impact, not just overseers – understanding their perspective strengthens governance Leadership evolves from authority-driven to listening and coaching – emotional intelligence matters Purpose is a powerful driver: for Greg, the mission of Devon Air Ambulance is deeply personal 00:00 – Introduction to Greg Allen01:00 – Career journey: finance, military, NHS, and charities07:20 – First steps into the charity sector10:30 – Lessons from non-linear career paths15:30 – Networks, mentors, and professional development18:00 – The value of trustee roles21:30 – Evolving a leadership style24:50 – Joining Devon Air Ambulance27:20 – Inside a complex regional charity29:10 – Fundraising, gifts in wills, and financial sustainability31:50 – Recruitment challenges and opportunities34:00 – How to get involved with Devon Air Ambulance35:20 – Teaching leadership at Exeter University38:30 – Advice to my younger self Discover how Greg’s leadership journey – shaped by resilience, networks, and purpose – can inspire your own path in the charity sector. Devon Air Ambulance – https://www.daat.orgExeter University Business School – https://business-school.exeter.ac.uk #CharityCareers #Leadership #Trusteeship #AirAmbulance #CharitySector

    43 min
  7. S2 | E12 Mary Comont on squiggly careers, servant leadership, and putting people first

    08/21/2025

    S2 | E12 Mary Comont on squiggly careers, servant leadership, and putting people first

    In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Mary Comont, Director of People at UCCF: The Christian Unions. Mary shares her "squiggly" career journey — from volunteering with a sailing charity as a teenager, to roles in fundraising, project management, and HR, culminating in her current senior leadership position. She reflects on the importance of values-driven work, the power of taking opportunities even when you don’t tick every box, and how creative, people-centred recruitment can unlock potential. Mary also opens up about the challenges of leadership, the role of faith in her decision-making, and why she believes HR should be at the heart of strategic planning in the charity sector. Whether you’re navigating your own career twists and turns or looking for fresh perspectives on people leadership, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement in equal measure. Key takeaways A career in the charity sector doesn’t have to follow a straight path — transferable skills and openness to opportunity are key. Creative hiring can bring in passionate, values-aligned candidates who might not meet every requirement on paper. HR is more than an administrative function — it’s central to shaping organisational culture and strategy. Leadership brings both privilege and pressure, requiring resilience, perspective, and a strong support network. Faith, values, and trust can guide career decisions and help in navigating uncertainty. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Mary Comont and UCCF 07:35 – Mary’s Journey into the Charity Sector 11:44 – Experiences at Tearfund and Career Development 20:48 – Transitioning to City Gateway and HR Insights 26:40 – The Journey into HR 28:46 – Taking the Leap into HR 31:19 – Valuing HR Qualifications 32:31 – The Shift in HR Perception 35:29 – Leadership and Organisational Change 37:31 – Transitioning to Senior Leadership 42:08 – Finding Support in Leadership 44:04 – The Squiggly Line Career 49:22 – Advice to My Younger Self 52:53 – Series 2 – Outro Listen to the episode to discover how Mary’s squiggly career path, values-driven approach, and leadership insights can inspire anyone in the charity sector. Useful links UCCF Website – https://www.uccf.org.uk Tearfund Website – https://www.tearfund.org/ City Gateway Website – https://www.citygateway.org.uk #CharityCareers #SquigglyCareer #HRLeadership #PeopleFirst #CharitySector

    54 min
  8. S2 | E11 Caroline Herman on periods, purpose and building a social enterprise

    07/24/2025

    S2 | E11 Caroline Herman on periods, purpose and building a social enterprise

    In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Caroline Herman, founder of All Yours – a social enterprise tackling period poverty and menstrual equity across the UK. What started as a heartfelt conversation in the car with her daughter turned into a fast-growing community-led initiative that now supports thousands. Caroline shares the origin story of All Yours, how it operates as a social enterprise rather than a traditional charity, and the personal passion that fuels its mission. The conversation explores the power of grassroots action, the stigma surrounding periods, and how accessible, dignified support can change lives. Caroline also reflects on the pressures of running a values-led organisation, the emotional stories that keep her going, and why every spark of an idea deserves to be taken seriously. Key takeawaysCaroline Herman is the founder of All Yours, a social enterprise addressing period poverty. The organisation began from a conversation between Caroline and her daughter in the car. All Yours redistributes donated products and reinvests profits to provide free period support to those in need. Operating as a social enterprise allows for greater agility and income generation through products and services. The work is deeply personal – and often emotional – with thousands of women sharing their stories. Despite its impact, All Yours operates with a small, mostly voluntary team. Caroline shares insights into growing an initiative from scratch while balancing family and full-time work. There’s a growing movement of social entrepreneurs using business for good – and Caroline’s story is a powerful example. Perfect forCharity sector professionalsCurrent and aspiring charity leadersFundraisers and community organisersAnyone passionate about social change and the future of local communities The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow us on your favourite platform, and don’t forget to like and review the show to help inspire and support the next generation of changemakers.

    40 min
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The Charity Changemakers Podcast dives deep into the world of non-profit leadership. Join us as we interview the CEOs and directors who are making a real impact in our communities. Each episode unveils the journeys that led these passionate individuals to the third sector. We explore the inspiring stories behind their charities, the challenges they navigate, and the exciting opportunities they're tackling. Get ready to be motivated by the power of giving and discover how you can get involved in creating positive change.

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