Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast: What Is Your Why? – Charity Sector Stories

Night Owl Philanthropy - Dean Jones
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Charity Leadership Podcast Introduction Welcome to the Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast Series: "What’s Your Why?" This is where we go beyond headlines to share the real, honest stories shaping the charity sector. Here, founders, leaders, and change makers open up about what drives them, the challenges they’ve faced, and the heart of their philanthropic journeys. Whether you’re a fundraiser, philanthropist, charity professional, or simply committed to making a difference, this channel offers genuine insight and inspiration to deepen your connection to giving. If you’d like to share your story or be featured in an upcoming conversation, we’d love to hear from you. You can find out more by visiting earlybirdphilanthropy.com

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 22: The Power of One Warm Coat in The U.S. Beth Amodio, CEO & President, One Warm Coat

    Beth Amodio shares the inspiring story of One Warm Coat, highlighting the power of community action, collaboration, and simple acts of kindness that create meaningful impact. Discover how a small idea can scale to a national movement that provides warmth and dignity to those in need. Key topics The origin story of Beth Amodio and One Warm CoatHow collaboration amplifies impact in the nonprofit sectorThe innovative operating model of One Warm CoatThe importance of storytelling and donor stewardshipChallenges and opportunities in scaling nonprofit initiativesThe role of community volunteers and corporate partnersThe significance of transparency and efficiency in fundraisingPersonal motivations and leadership insights in philanthropy Sound bites "Practical acts of kindness can make a difference" "Helping others is like creating magic" "Doing one small thing can change a life" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast 01:18 Beth Amodio's Journey to One Warm Coat 04:54 The Collaborative Model of One Warm Coat 09:48 Personal Experiences Shaping Philanthropy 13:16 Describing One Warm Coat's Impact 15:44 Zero Waste Initiative and Sustainability 17:17 Misunderstandings About Coat Drives 20:50 Growing Need for Coats in America 24:04 Understanding Coat Drives 27:44 Challenges of Scaling a Nonprofit 30:16 Building Trust with Donors 32:31 The Impact of Community Action 34:38 Hope and Optimism in Philanthropy 37:18 The Human Connection in Giving 40:22 The Journey into Nonprofit Leadership 42:04 Fundraising Strategies and Team Dynamics 45:10 Stewardship and Donor Relationships 48:56 Challenges in Nonprofit Work 51:44 The Importance of Collaboration 55:58 Impact Stories: The Power of a Coat 01:00:42 Leadership in the Nonprofit Sector 01:02:16 Decision-Making in Resource-Limited Environments 01:03:47 Defining Success in Nonprofit Work 01:05:40 Lessons for Other Nonprofits 01:08:07 Future Aspirations for One Warm Coat 01:10:24 Measuring Organizational Growth 01:11:46 Engaging the Community 01:13:07 Quick Fire Round: Insights and Reflections Resources One Warm Coat Website - https://onewarmcoat.org Abby Wombach - Wolfpack Book - https://www.amazon.com/Wolfpack-Leadership-Abby-Wambach/dp/0593191244 Cradles to Crayons - https://www.cradlestocare.org Fatface UK - https://www.fatface.com

    Episode 22: The Power of One Warm Coat in The U.S. Beth Amodio, CEO & President, One Warm Coat

  2. Oct 16

    Episode 21. Turning Invisible Work Into Visible Hope, Peter Murphy-Lewis, President, Miami County Community Foundation

    Summary In this episode, Dean Jones speaks with Peter Murphy-Lewis, president of the Miami County Community Foundation in Kansas, about purpose, community and the power of storytelling. Peter reflects on his journey from international business and television to local philanthropy, explaining how returning to his home community helped him focus on impact rather than status. He discusses the role of community foundations in responding quickly to local needs, supporting issues such as mental health and suicide prevention, and strengthening rural communities. The conversation also explores how honest, human stories can build trust, challenge stereotypes, create belonging and inspire people to care about causes they might otherwise overlook. Keywords philanthropy, storytelling, community impact, local philanthropy, Kansas, nonprofit leadership, impact storytelling, community building Key topics The evolution of Peter Murphy Lewis's purpose and impactThe role of storytelling in philanthropy and community engagementDifferences and advantages of community foundationsThe importance of internal and external community storiesStrategies for building hope and trust in rural communitiesThe significance of authentic storytelling and dignityThe concept of radical visibility in social impactBalancing transparency and dignity in storytellingThe influence of personal history on community workHow to start using storytelling for social impact Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peter Murphy Lewis and his journey 01:59 Understanding Peter’s evolving purpose and impact 03:54 Why Peter returned to Kansas and his community roots 06:05 The influence of civil unrest on his life and work 09:04 The role of storytelling in nonprofit and community work 11:49 What makes community foundations unique and effective 15:03 The power of community stories to change perceptions 17:54 Trust, storytelling, and local belonging 21:08 The importance of authentic and raw storytelling 24:00 Addressing stigmatized issues through storytelling 28:00 Building hope in overlooked communities 31:57 The impact of personal stories and legacy 35:51 Why he positions himself in the front line 39:55 The role of humility and authenticity in leadership 43:49 The influence of stories on social and community change 48:06 The concept of radical visibility in philanthropy 52:01 Measuring success and impact in community work 55:00 Future directions for storytelling and community impact

    Episode 21. Turning Invisible Work Into Visible Hope, Peter Murphy-Lewis, President, Miami County Community Foundation

  3. Oct 2

    Episode 20: Building Confidence Through Education, Dr Julian Ng, CEO, The Warnborough Foundation

    Summary In this episode, Julian Ng, CEO of the Warnborough Foundation, shares insights into his motivation, the foundation's work in education and social impact, and the importance of community-led change. Discover how practical support, collaboration, and mindset shifts can transform lives and communities. Key topics Motivation behind the Warnborough FoundationThe role of mindset and confidence in social impactImportance of collaboration and partnershipsStrategies for community-led changeThe impact of informal education and life skillsBuilding trust with stakeholders and participantsAdapting programs based on feedback and learningThe significance of humility and resilience in leadership Sound bites "The same Victorian seafront, different shores" "It's not society that holds us back, it's ourselves" "Transforming how a person sees themselves and their worth" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Philanthropy and Education 01:10 Understanding the Why Behind the Warmbra Foundation 05:35 Julian's Personal Journey and Motivation 09:56 The Importance of Self-Respect and Confidence 13:01 The Warmbra Foundation's Approach to Education 18:10 Classism and Its Impact on Confidence 20:50 Identifying Participants and Their Needs 22:55 Measuring Success in a Short Timeframe 26:16 Leadership and Collaboration in Charity Work 29:40 The Foundation Model and Trust Building 34:41 Rewards of Leading the Warmbra Foundation 37:44 Skills and Confidence in Leadership 39:54 Transforming Employment Support Programs 42:05 Adapting and Growing: The Journey of the Foundation 43:39 The Need for Community Support 44:38 Understanding Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs 47:35 The Importance of Local Engagement 49:44 Challenging Prejudices in Community Work 51:48 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 54:34 Legacy and Personal Motivation 58:24 Future Opportunities for the Foundation 01:03:07 Call to Action for Community Involvement Resources Warnborough Foundation - Website is https://www.warnborough.foundation Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow%27s_hierarchy_of_needs Dale Carnegie - How to Win Friends and Influence People - https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034 Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill - https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Napoleon-Hill/dp/1934451386 Julian Ng on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-unger-123456789/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-unger-123456789/ Website - https://www.warnborough.foundation

    Episode 20: Building Confidence Through Education, Dr Julian Ng, CEO, The Warnborough Foundation

  4. Sep 18

    Episode 19. Public Service Partnership & Leadership, Nikki Ross, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire

    In this episode, Nikki Ross shares her journey through policing, civic leadership, and charity work, highlighting the importance of trust, collaboration, and community-driven change. Discover how her diverse experiences inform her approach to social impact and leadership. In this episode, Nikki Ross shares her journey from policing to becoming the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, exploring leadership, neurodiversity, community engagement, and the importance of volunteering. Discover how her experiences and insights can inspire your own path and community involvement. Key topics Nikki Ross's career in policing and civic leadership The role of trust and collaboration in community strengthening Impact of neurodiversity awareness in the justice system Leadership challenges and lessons in social impact work The importance of community-driven change and partnership Leadership and decision-making skills The role and history of the High Sheriff Neurodiversity and its impact on personal and professional life Community engagement and the power of volunteering Transitioning from policing to charity work and public service The influence of ADHD as a superpower in leadership The importance of clarity and communication in management Reflections on legacy and making a difference Sound bites "I've always had a public service ethos." "My ADHD is my superpower." "I care deeply about making a difference." Resources Early Bird Philanthropy - https://earlybirdphilanthropy.com Nikki Ross - LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/nikkiross Polar Steps - Travel Diary App - https://www.polarsteps.com/ High Sheriff Buckinghamshire - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/highsheriffbucks/ Nikki Ross on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkiross/ The Role of the High Sheriff - Historic Overview - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_Sheriff

    Episode 19. Public Service Partnership & Leadership, Nikki Ross, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire

  5. Sep 4

    Episode 18. Leading Change Through People, Place and Environment, Graham Duxbury, Chief Executive, Groundwork UK,

    Summary Graham Duxbury, CEO of Groundwork, shares insights on community regeneration, place-based change, and the importance of practical action, long-term thinking, and community empowerment. Discover how Groundwork's model fosters resilient, inclusive communities through partnerships, trust, and persistent effort. Key Topics Community regeneration and place-based changeGroundwork's principles and evolution since 1981The role of partnerships and trust in community workPractical solutions for fuel poverty and environmental issuesLeadership in federated charity organisations Guest Name Graham Duxbury Key Frameworks Asset-Based Community Development Outcome-Based Funding Federated Charity Model Action Items Visit local community groups and support their initiatives Advocate for investment in community sector workforce Share successful community regeneration projects to inspire others Support policies that integrate social justice and environmental sustainability Sound Bites "Purpose is at the heart of what I do" "Meeting inspiring people keeps me motivated" "Groundwork is endlessly fascinating" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Philanthropy and Purpose 02:54 Graham Duxbury's Personal 'Why' and Career Journey 06:01 Understanding Groundwork's Purpose and Evolution 08:57 Community Empowerment and Local Impact 11:44 Leadership in a Federated Charity Structure 15:02 Ensuring Relevance and Responsiveness in Local Communities 17:55 Characteristics of Strong Communities 20:58 The Importance of Practical and Visible Work 25:50 Empowering Communities Through Shared Learning 26:27 Proud Projects: Groundwork's Impact on Communities 27:37 Addressing Fuel Poverty: A Growing Concern 28:07 Revitalizing Heritage: Transforming Industrial Sites 29:27 Innovative Solutions to Fuel Poverty 35:55 Navigating Policy Changes: Groundwork's Resilience 40:03 Adapting to the Cost of Living Crisis 45:03 The Power of Community Engagement and Volunteering 50:25 Leadership in a Federation 53:01 Lessons in Leadership 55:54 Understanding Long-Term Change 01:00:03 Defining Success 01:02:48 The Importance of Workforce Development 01:05:16 Surprises in Community Engagement 01:07:03 Facilitating Connections 01:09:20 Opportunities for Charities 01:13:24 The Interconnection of Social and Environmental Issues

    Episode 18. Leading Change Through People, Place and Environment, Graham Duxbury, Chief Executive, Groundwork UK,

  6. Aug 21

    Episode 17. Why Early Autism Support Matters, Sarah Sweet-Rowley, CEO, Autism Early Support

    Summary In this episode, Sarah Sweet Rowley from Autism Early Support shares her journey from hospice care to leading a charity dedicated to supporting autistic children and their families. She discusses the evolution of the organization, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges and successes in the sector. Keywords Autism Support, Early Intervention, Charity Leadership, Neurodiversity, Social Impact, Autism Education Key topics Sarah Sweet Rowley's career transition from hospice to autism supportEvolution of Autism Early Support over 25 yearsThe importance of early intervention and personalised support plansChallenges in the SEND system and advocacy for changeThe role of digital platforms in supporting familiesLeadership and organizational growth in the charity sector Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast 03:45 The Passion for Supporting Vulnerable Populations 05:32 Understanding the Role of Autism Early Support 06:56 Career Journey and Imposter Syndrome 07:34 Inclusion and Social Justice as Driving Forces 08:45 The Joy of Working with Families and Children 09:24 Mission and Evolution of Autism Early Support 11:36 Challenges in the System of Special Education 12:07 Navigating the System of SEND 14:00 Connecting with Families in Need 19:33 The Importance of Early Intervention 22:03 Celebrating 25 Years of Impact 23:07 Proud Moments as a Leader 24:32 Evolving Support Post-Pandemic 27:03 Success of the Digital Platform 29:09 Therapy Services in Home and School 30:51 Changing Demand for Autism Support 33:24 Challenging Myths About Autism 37:16 Mainstream Education and Autism Support 41:27 Fundraising and Measuring Impact 44:43 Family Success Stories and Resilience 48:23 Creating a Supportive Environment 49:56 Leadership and Mentorship 51:24 Future Priorities for Autism Early Support 53:10 Balancing Technology and Early Childhood Development 55:54 Advice for Aspiring Charity Leaders 58:26 The Importance of Consistency and Reflection 01:01:12 Book Recommendations for Leadership and Parenting 01:06:38 Engaging with the Community and Support Opportunities Resources Autism Early Support Website - https://autismearlysupport.org.uk Find Your Why by Simon Sinek - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Find-Your-Why-Leaders-Organizations/dp/0241243194 Uniquely Human by Barry Present - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Uniquely-Human-Neurodiversity-Understanding-Behavior/dp/1939529744 Stephen Biddulph's Raising Boys - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Raising-Boys-What-Parents-Need/dp/0091829274 We're All Neurodiverse - https://www.amazon.co.uk/We-are-all-Neurodiverse-Understanding/dp/XXXXXX

    Episode 17. Why Early Autism Support Matters, Sarah Sweet-Rowley, CEO, Autism Early Support

  7. Aug 7

    Episode 16. The Human Impact of Community Law, Sarah Hayle, CEO, Community Law Service

    In this episode, Sarah Hayle, CEO of Community Law Service, shares her journey into legal charity leadership, her motivations rooted in justice, and how her organisation supports thousands facing legal and financial challenges. Discover insights on managing a large charity, the impact of volunteering, and the future role of AI in social justice work. In this insightful interview, Sarah Hayle shares her experiences leading the Community Law Service, highlighting the impact of legal aid, collaboration, and resilience in the charity sector. Discover how dedicated support, strategic planning, and community partnerships transform lives and foster hope. Keywords Legal charity, social justice, community support, volunteering, AI in social work, legal advice, charity leadership, debt support, welfare benefits, community law Community Law Service, legal aid, charity leadership, social justice, mental health, collaboration, resilience, community support, nonprofit impact Key topics Sarah Hayle's motivation rooted in justicePath from social policy to legal charity leadershipManaging a charity supporting 17,500 people annuallyVolunteer recruitment and career developmentImpact of cost of living crisis on legal supportUse of AI and technology in legal advicePrioritisation and case management in charity workAddressing stigma around benefits and legal aid Impact of legal aid on familiesCollaboration and partnership workingResilience in charity leadershipTakeaways Legal support can be life-changing for families facing hardship.Effective collaboration enhances service delivery and community impact.Resilience and self-care are vital for charity leaders facing sector challenges.Sound bites "I don't like injustice." "It's a very rewarding role." "People are really struggling." Resources Community Law Service Website - https://communitylawservice.org.uk Just Giving Page for Community Law Service - https://www.justgiving.com/communitylawservice Legal Education Foundation - https://legaleducation.org Advice UK - https://adviceuk.org.uk LawCare (Legal Sector Wellbeing Charity) - https://lawcare.org.uk

    Episode 16. The Human Impact of Community Law, Sarah Hayle, CEO, Community Law Service

  8. Jul 24

    Episode 15. Standing Up for Children Living In Poverty, Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive, The Childhood Trust

    Charity Stories from Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast Summary In this episode, Dean Jones interviews Josephine McCartney, CEO of the Childhood Trust, to explore the realities of child poverty in London, the impact of social support systems, and innovative approaches to grant making and community collaboration. They discuss how targeted interventions, community engagement, and strategic funding can create lasting change for vulnerable children. In this insightful interview, Josephine McCartney, CEO of The Childhood Trust, shares her journey and the vital work of addressing child poverty in London. She discusses the importance of community, collaboration, and storytelling in creating meaningful change, highlighting how societal attitudes and systemic challenges impact young people's futures. Key Topics Child poverty in London and its scaleThe role of community support and social infrastructureImpact measurement and long-term outcomes for children The role of community and storytelling in social changeSystemic challenges in addressing child povertyThe importance of collaboration among charities, government, and society Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast 00:56 Understanding the Mission of the Childhood Trust 02:30 Josephine's Journey into Child Poverty Advocacy 04:05 The Role of Leadership in Driving Change 05:48 Personal Experiences Shaping Advocacy 09:01 The Reality of Child Poverty in London 11:43 Deep Poverty: A Stark Reality 14:15 Statistics Behind Child Poverty in London 17:34 Comparing Poverty Across Regions 18:41 The Hidden Aspects of Deprivation 19:25 Understanding Childhood Poverty 21:03 Immediate vs Long-term Impact of Support 26:33 City-wide Approach to Child Poverty 28:12 The Big Give: A Model for Funding 32:53 Balancing Immediate Needs and Long-term Goals 38:32 Listening to Children: Outcomes that Matter 40:53 Empowering Children Through Design 41:21 The Importance of Listening to Young Voices 42:54 Immediate Needs in Youth Provision 43:40 Access to Opportunities for Young People 47:26 Creating a Vision for Young People 52:34 Hope in Child Poverty Strategies 56:59 Societal Responsibility Towards Poverty 01:00:22 Collaboration in the Charity Sector 01:04:53 Valuable Partnerships Beyond Funding 01:06:46 The Role of Philanthropists in Creating Change 01:07:39 Managing Relationships with Donors 01:08:32 The Importance of Stewardship 01:09:27 The Human Element of Philanthropy 01:11:47 The Power of Storytelling in Fundraising 01:14:58 Nurturing Passion and Purpose 01:18:07 Quickfire Round: Insights and Recommendations Resources The Big Give Platform - https://www.thebiggive.org.uk/ Childhood Trust - https://www.childhoodtrust.org.uk/ Bayes Business School - https://www.bayes.edu/ TheChildhoodTrust.org.uk - https://thechildhoodtrust.org.uk Brené Brown TED Talks - https://www.ted.com/speakers/brene_brown

    Episode 15. Standing Up for Children Living In Poverty, Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive, The Childhood Trust
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Charity Leadership Podcast Introduction Welcome to the Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast Series: "What’s Your Why?" This is where we go beyond headlines to share the real, honest stories shaping the charity sector. Here, founders, leaders, and change makers open up about what drives them, the challenges they’ve faced, and the heart of their philanthropic journeys. Whether you’re a fundraiser, philanthropist, charity professional, or simply committed to making a difference, this channel offers genuine insight and inspiration to deepen your connection to giving. If you’d like to share your story or be featured in an upcoming conversation, we’d love to hear from you. You can find out more by visiting earlybirdphilanthropy.com

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