We chat to Alison Court, Chief Transformation Officer at Oxfam

In a special end-of-the-year episode, Starts at the Top tackles the elephant in every boardroom: artificial intelligence.

Paul and Zoe unpack how 2024 became the year AI moved from buzzword to business reality, revealing stark differences between how charities and companies are rising to the challenge.

Drawing on their vantage points across both sectors, Paul and Zoe deliver eye-opening insights: while grassroots charity workers are embracing AI with gusto (adoption soaring from 35% to 61% this year), many charity leaders remain hesitant. Meanwhile, the private sector is seeing AI reshape entire business models, backed by serious investment. The resulting discussion is both a wake-up call and a practical roadmap for 2025.

We discuss:

Why 2024 marks a turning point in AI adoption across sectors

The surprising truth about where AI innovation really happens in charities

How private equity is transforming the accountancy sector through AI investment

Essential lessons from Oxfam's pioneering approach to AI governance

What charity boards must do differently in 2025

Preview of game-changing AI guidance coming in the new Charity Digital Code of Practice

Featured Interview: Alison Court, Oxfam's Chief Transformation Officer, shares candid insights about getting board-level buy-in for AI innovation - a must-listen for anyone trying to drive digital change from the top.

Looking ahead to 2025, Paul and Zoe discuss their AI New Year's resolutions for leaders, including Zoe's insider preview of the updated Charity Digital Code of Practice and Paul's compelling case for putting AI at the heart of five-year strategies.

Don't miss this essential capstone to a year that changed everything about how we think about leadership and AI.

Note - The clip we discussed at the end of the episode hasn't been included. We'll add it to a future episode and share it on social media.

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Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

Trigger warning: This episode contains descriptions of racial abuse, workplace bullying and discrimination which some listeners may find distressing

In his role as Regional Director for London at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Sal spent nearly a decade overseeing some of the most high-profile police misconduct cases. Recognised as one of the top 10 voices on anti-discrimination on LinkedIn and named in the Diversity Power List 2023-24, Sal has contributed to several BBC documentaries and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Through his deeply personal account, Sal shares vital lessons about leading change in complex systems:

Why finding common purpose with unlikely allies is crucial for driving meaningful change

The importance of approaching leadership with humility and leaving ego at the door

How to maintain your values when faced with systemic resistance

The true cost of driving change and the importance of self-care

Why exceptional leadership is rooted in consistent character both inside and outside work

One of Sal's most powerful insights is that "to lead in a values-led way and to lead in a true sense is hard because you have to make hard choices." His experiences demonstrate how maintaining your moral compass can guide you through the most challenging leadership decisions.

Sal's new book, "True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience and Resisting Systems of Denial" is available on Amazon and in all good bookshops. It offers a raw and honest account of his experiences fighting for change within the system while facing institutional resistance and personal challenges.

Photo credit: Lensi Photography

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat with John May, CEO of Cats Protection

Leading a charity with 1,000 staff and 10,000 volunteers requires a delicate balance of co-creation, patience, and cultural transformation. In this episode, John May shares insights from his role as Chief Executive of Cats Protection, discussing how to create lasting organisational change and foster meaningful partnerships between staff and volunteers.

At the heart of our conversation with John are powerful insights about creating sustainable change in large organisations:

The evolution of voluntary organisations and the need for new partnership models between paid staff and volunteers

Why co-creation, rather than compromise, leads to better decision-making

The importance of taking time to build lasting change rather than seeking quick wins

How to embed values deeply into organisational culture rather than letting them become mere PowerPoint slides

Supporting pet owners through the cost-of-living crisis while expanding reach from 157,000 to millions of cats

John shares a refreshing perspective on leadership, emphasising that sustainable change often takes longer than we initially think and requires patience, gentle persuasion rather than imposition, and genuine co-creation with all stakeholders. Digital transformation isn't just about tech - it's about knowing when to build specialist teams, when to distribute expertise, and crucially, when your organisation is ready for change.

Notes

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-musk-government-spending-audit-commission-b2607847.html

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat to Said Dajani, Head of Digital at Diabetes UK

Digital transformation isn't just about tech - it's about knowing when to build specialist teams, when to distribute expertise, and crucially, when your organisation is ready for change. In this episode, Said Dajani shares insights from his 11-year journey as Head of Digital at Diabetes UK, discussing how to navigate organisational change and create innovative solutions in the charity sector.

Said shares practical wisdom about leading digital change in large organisations, including:

How to build and maintain social capital for long-term change

When to centralise or distribute digital expertise

Ways to balance innovation with organisational readiness

Approaches to implementing AI in healthcare services

Methods for creating commercial opportunities while serving charitable objectives

The episode explores Said's experience of evolving from leading a centralised digital team, to fostering digital expertise across the organisation. His insights on timing, relationship building and organisational understanding offer valuable lessons for leaders managing similar transitions.

Notes

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We speak to Mark Atkinson, Director General for the Royal British Legion

Join us for an insightful conversation with Mark Atkinson, Director General of the Royal British Legion, as he reflects on his first 100 days and beyond in this pivotal role.

In this game-changing episode, Mark shares fresh perspectives from his transition to the Royal British Legion in January 2024, tackling the big questions facing the sector:

How can a 100+ year old institution like the Royal British Legion stay relevant in today's rapidly changing world?

What does strategy development look like when balancing rich heritage with the need for innovation?

How is the charity sector evolving post-pandemic, and what challenges lie ahead?

How can the sector rediscover its mojo and innovate after the challenges of lockdown and and the ongoing cost of living crisis?

Drawing on his experiences at the Royal British Legion, RNID, and Scope, Mark offers a candid look at:

Practical approaches to evidence-gathering and stakeholder engagement in strategy development

Addressing 'small-c conservatism' in the charity sector to drive meaningful change

Navigating leadership challenges in a post pandemic, changing workforce, particularly addressing the expectations of younger employees entering the sector

The importance of making tough decisions to ensure long-term organisational success

Strategies for reinvigorating the sector and finding new energy in the face of ongoing challenges

Mark discusses how charities can maintain their focus on evidence and delivery while carving out time to think creatively about the future, even in challenging times.

Whether you're a trustee, CEO, emerging leader, or passionate about the future of charities, this episode offers invaluable insights into the realities of leading major charities through periods of significant change. Tune in now to challenge your assumptions and join the conversation about why, and how, the future of the sector needs to look different to the present.

Zoe and Paul also discuss National Podcast Day the week we launch our 75th episode!

Notes

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat to Alina Addison, author of ‘The Audacity Spectrum: Leading with Care, Courage and Non-Conformity’

In our latest Starts at the Top episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alina Addison, author of "The Audacity Spectrum" and founder of Adaptaa.

Alina's take on leadership is bold and refreshing. She challenges the idea that leaders are often pigeonholed as "too much" or "not enough", instead encouraging us to embrace our quirks and lead authentically.

We covered quite a bit of ground, including:

Alina's intriguing 'eight A's' of leadership

Why so-called 'soft skills' are actually hard to master

Balancing care for others with self-care

The role of emotional intelligence in decision-making

Practical tips for more authentic leadership

Whether you're grappling with how to lead differently, or simply curious about new approaches to leadership, there's plenty to chew on here.

We were particularly struck by Alina's simple yet powerful advice: take a moment to breathe, say 'thank you' daily, and don't be afraid to take that first step towards change.

Do give it a listen. We think you'll find it a thought-provoking way to spend 45 minutes of your day.

Notes

Information about Adaptaa

BBC story about women in tech groups and diversity

Our episode with Maggie Philbin

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat with Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB.

In our new episode of Starts at the Top, we explore the intersection of AI, technology, and accessibility with Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People). Jim shares how RNIB is leveraging innovative technologies, including AI, to create more inclusive solutions for blind and partially sighted people.

Key highlights:

RNIB's innovative use of AI for services, including developing chatbots

Addressing accessibility challenges through technological solutions, including the "last five metres" problem

How designing for blind and partially sighted people often leads to better products for everyone

RNIB's exploration of new business models that balance social impact and financial sustainability

The importance of cross-sector collaboration in driving meaningful change in accessibility

Jim offers valuable insights on leadership in the digital age, emphasising the need for a broader, more collaborative approach to solving societal challenges. While AI is a part of RNIB's innovation strategy, Jim also discusses wider technological and design approaches to creating a more inclusive world.

This episode is essential listening for charity leaders, tech innovators, and anyone interested in how technology, including AI, can contribute to greater accessibility and inclusion.

What really excited us about this episode was hearing how RNIB is not just adapting to technological advancements, but actively shaping them to benefit all. This conversation will challenge your perceptions and inspire new thinking about inclusive design and innovation in the AI era. Don’t miss it!

Notes

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0022n0f

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

In our latest episode of Starts at the Top, we explore the ethical frontiers of AI with Tim Cook, founder of AIConfident and former head of the UK government's Office for Artificial Intelligence.

As AI revolutionises our world, Tim offers invaluable insights for leaders navigating this new landscape:

Understanding AI's broader implications beyond tactical applications

Balancing safe experimentation with strategic, ethical considerations

AI's transformative impact on education, work, and knowledge acquisition

The dual potential for groundbreaking innovation and significant risks

Crafting organisational AI policies that promote responsible innovation

Drawing from his experience in government, Tim shares reflections on leading through turbulent times and the importance of maintaining perspective in high-pressure roles.

Tim discusses AI's potential to influence democratic processes worldwide through deep fakes and misinformation. However, he remains optimistic about AI's capacity to solve complex societal problems when used ethically and responsibly.

This episode is essential listening for everyone, whether you're just starting to explore AI or you're already well-versed in the technology. Whether AI excites or concerns you, Tim offers practical strategies for understanding its impact and using it ethically in your organisation. Learn how to foster a culture of responsible innovation and empower your team to embrace AI's potential while being mindful of its challenges.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that will challenge your perceptions and inspire you to lead with confidence and integrity in the AI era.

Notes

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (.srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat to Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Nonprofit Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank

In this eye opening episode of Starts at the Top, we dive into the world of AI and its transformative potential for the charity sector. Join us as we chat with two visionaries at the forefront of charity digital innovation: Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Charity Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank in Canada.

Devi shares invaluable insights on how AI is reshaping the charitable landscape, from streamlining operations to attracting new talent. She emphasises the sector's unique position to become "architects of AI solutions" for social good, challenging charities to lead the charge in ethical AI adoption.

Dan Kershaw's story is nothing short of inspiring. He takes us through Furniture Bank's journey from AI novice to innovator, demonstrating how even small charities can harness AI's power with creativity and a dash of courage. From AI-generated imagery tackling 'furniture poverty' to multilingual volunteer support, Dan's practical examples prove that the potential of AI is within reach for all.

Zoe and Paul discuss how leadership might change under the new Labour government.

Notes:

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Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.

We chat with Polly Neate, CEO at Shelter

As the UK faces a defining general election amidst a deepening housing emergency, bold and resilient leadership has never been more crucial. In this raw and revealing episode, Polly Neate CBE, CEO of Shelter, shares hard-won lessons from her decades on the frontlines fighting for social justice.

Polly offers an unflinching look at the challenges of leading a charity through nonstop change and fighting for social justice in a world increasingly fractured by fear and polarisation.

Drawing on her experiences at Shelter, Women's Aid, and beyond, Polly makes a compelling case for the power of empathy and lived experience to cut through the noise and forge genuine connection. She challenges leaders to rethink authenticity, embracing consistency and boundaries as the foundations of trust and impact.

As charities face mounting pressure to stay silent, Polly issues an urgent rallying cry to speak truth to power. She shares how Shelter is harnessing creativity and the power of storytelling to put the housing emergency firmly on the election agenda - and inspires listeners to find their own voice and conviction.

Tune in for a master class in leading with integrity, grit, and heart. Learn how to support your teams through the toughest of times, stay grounded in purpose, and mobilise the public to drive systemic change.

In a political landscape reshaped by COVID and Brexit, this episode is a must-listen for any leader seeking to navigate uncertainty and lead the charge for a more just and compassionate society. Get ready to be moved, challenged, and inspired to act.

Notes

https://www.shelter.org.uk/

Tech news

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1335nj316lo

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/article/2024/jun/10/brighton-general-election-candidate-uk-first-ai-mp-artificial-intelligence

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.