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

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 takeaways
Caroline 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 for
Charity sector professionals
Current and aspiring charity leaders
Fundraisers and community organisers
Anyone 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.

In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey is joined by Matt Hyde, Chief Executive of the Lloyds Bank Foundation. Matt shares his inspiring journey from growing up above a family business rooted in community service, to leading major organisations like the Scouts and the National Union of Students, and now driving systemic change as a funder.

They explore the power of community-led change, the importance of resilience (both personal and organisational), and why strong networks and mental health support are crucial for charity leaders today. Matt also reflects on his transition from service delivery to funding, and why he believes charities play a vital role in a renewed vision for society.

Key takeaways

• Community-led change sits at the heart of sustainable social impact.

• Leaders thrive when they build strong support networks, mentors, and peer groups.

• Psychosocial and mental health support are essential parts of leadership resilience.

• Holistic funding — combining core support with organisational development — strengthens charities long term.

• Resilience is not only about the organisation but also about individual sustainability and self-management.

• Building wide networks beyond your immediate environment unlocks growth and new perspectives.

• The voluntary and community sector must play a central role in shaping a fairer, healthier society.

• Collaboration across government, business, and communities is key to systemic change.

• Learning from tough experiences is as valuable as celebrating successes.

• Leaders benefit from creating space to think strategically rather than working unsustainable hours.

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction and quickfire questions
07:00 – Matt’s early influences and community roots
09:00 – From student activism to leadership in student unions
12:40 – Becoming a young chief executive at NUS
19:00 – The role of networks and mentoring in leadership success
21:55 – The increasing challenges for charity leaders today
24:55 – Building resilience in people and organisations
27:20 – Transitioning into a funder role at Lloyds Bank Foundation
30:40 – The power of community-led change and funding models
33:50 – Working with Lloyds Banking Group and systemic change
37:20 – Unlocking local community potential
41:10 – Advice to my younger self: building networks and trusting the journey
46:00 – Closing thoughts

Perfect for

• Charity sector professionals

• Current and aspiring charity leaders

• Fundraisers and community organisers

• Anyone 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.

S2 | E9 – Sophie Castell on leadership, storytelling, and switching from Coca-Cola to charity

Episode summary
In this special edition of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Sophie Castell, Chief Executive of Myeloma UK, in honour of Myeloma Awareness Week.

Sophie shares her journey from a high-flying commercial role at Coca-Cola to leading a national charity that’s transforming the lives of people affected by myeloma, an incurable blood cancer.

The conversation touches on leadership lessons, the role of storytelling in fundraising, the power of strong sector networks, and the urgency of early diagnosis. Sophie also reflects on the transition from corporate to charity life, the need for resilience, and why staying open to new opportunities matters more than ever.

Key takeaways

• Sophie Castell is Chief Executive of Myeloma UK

• Myeloma Awareness Week highlights the importance of early diagnosis and symptom recognition

• Sophie’s journey began in the commercial world, including time at Coca-Cola

• Storytelling is a powerful tool in fundraising and engagement

• Peer support and sector networks are essential for charity leaders

• Charity leadership requires juggling multiple complex responsibilities

• Early diagnosis can dramatically improve outcomes for people with myeloma

• Resilience and adaptability are key leadership qualities

• A broad skill set helps navigate an evolving charity landscape

• Openness to new opportunities supports both personal and professional growth

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Sophie Castell and Myeloma UK
06:47 – Sophie’s journey into the charity sector
12:46 – Transitioning from commercial to charity leadership
17:45 – Building teams and strategy in a post-COVID world
23:53 – The significance of Myeloma Awareness Week
30:27 – Storytelling in charity work
32:13 – Advice to her younger self
34:07 – Outro

Get involved
Shine a light on myeloma during Myeloma Awareness Week by:

• Learning and sharing the symptoms

• Supporting research and patient care

• Joining the conversation online (#MyelomaAwarenessWeek)

Listen and follow
The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Follow the show on your favourite platform – and if you enjoy it, please like, share, and leave a review to help us inspire the next generation of changemakers.

In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Tarn Bright, Co-Chief Executive of Home for Good and Safe Families. With honesty, laughter and depth, Tarn shares a remarkable personal and professional journey that spans foster care, homelessness, the corporate world, and now charity leadership.

From sofa surfing at 16 to leading a major merger in the children’s sector, Tarn’s story is one of grit, purpose and transformation. She reflects on the oath she made as a lonely teenager to ensure no young person ever feels as isolated as she once did, and how that promise shaped her life’s work.

We hear how she blagged her way into a corporate job, became a high-flyer at Diageo, and eventually pivoted to community ministry, social justice, and senior leadership in the charity world.

Tarn also unpacks the 2024 merger between Home for Good and Safe Families: why they did it, what made it work, and how staff culture and trust were central to its success.

With moving stories and practical insight, this is a must-listen episode for anyone navigating leadership, growth or major change in the charity sector.

Tune in to hear:

• Why personal experience and purpose still drive Tarn’s leadership
• How two charities merged without losing their identity or their people
• The importance of culture, curiosity and courage in transformation

Tarn and her Co-CEO Kat are taking on the Gear Change Challenge this July, cycling from the South Coast to Scotland in just four and a half days to raise funds.

Find out more and support their ride at safefamilies.uk/gcc

• 00:00 Introduction to Tom Bright and His Journey
• 05:00 The Importance of Joy and Laughter
• 07:55 Balancing Personal Life and Leadership
• 10:56 Transitioning into the Charity Sector
• 13:52 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose
• 16:55 The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth
• 19:50 The Nudge Towards Meaningful Work
• 23:46 A Journey of Faith and Community Engagement
• 28:24 The Merger of Home for Good and Safe Families
• 34:40 Navigating Organisational Change and Culture
• 40:49 Impact of the Merger on Services and Advocacy
• 44:32 Calls to Action: How to Get Involved

The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow, like and review to help us spotlight more inspiring voices from across the sector.

#charityleadership #changemakers #merger

In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey sits down with Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, for a conversation packed with vision, candour and big ideas.

Hilary reflects on her early days in campaigning and advocacy, and how a bold strategic reset helped shape one of the UK’s most ambitious and fast-growing medical research charities.

From navigating complexity to knowing when to say no, Hilary shares the leadership lessons that have defined her 10-year journey as CEO.

You’ll hear how Alzheimer’s Research UK scaled from 45 to nearly 300 staff, increased income from £10 million to £60 million, and kept mission and culture at the heart of it all. Thisepisode is a must-listen for anyone curious about leading through change, building strong teams, and creating space for innovation in the charity sector.

Tune in to hear

• What it really takes to lead a charity through growth and transformation
• How to build a resilient culture without losing sight of impact
• Why clarity, collaboration and courage matter more than ever
• Practical advice for future leaders shaping the sector

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Hilary Evans-Newton and Alzheimer’s Research UK
06:21 – Quickfire Questions: Personal Insights and Interests
10:51 – Journey into the Charity Sector: Early Career and Advocacy
16:07 – Transitioning to Leadership: Experiences at Age UK
20:24 – Becoming Chief Executive: Opportunities and Challenges
23:21 – Evolution of Leadership and Organisational Growth
27:12 – Key Leadership Policies for Growth
29:37 – Learning from Setbacks and Strategic Prioritisation
33:38 – Culture, Values and the Human Side of Leadership
36:28 – Alzheimer’s Research UK: Mission, Impact and the Future of DementiaResearch
41:14 – Reflections on Career and Confidence
43:53 – Closing Thoughts

The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow, like and review to help us spotlight more inspiring voices from across the sector.

#charityleadership #changemakers #dementiaresearch #nonprofitinnovation #charitysector

In this episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey chats with Rhonda Nicklin, Chief Executive of Swings and Smiles – a charity supporting disabled children and their families through inclusive play and respite care.

Rhonda shares how her background in nursing and her lived experience as a parent led her into the charity sector. From service user to CEO, she unpacks the power of play therapy, the challenges of running a small charity in a post-COVID world, and how confidence, collaboration and community sit at the heart of her leadership.

Visit the charity - https://www.swingsandsmiles.co.uk/

Key takeaways

• Rhonda’s leadership journey was shaped by her personal connection to the cause.

• Swings and Smiles uses play therapy to support the emotional and social needs of disabled children.

• Demand for services has grown significantly since the pandemic.

• Trust, empathy, and consistency are key to building relationships with families.

• Rhonda draws on her nursing background to inform her leadership style.

• She believes in learning from mistakes and leading with authenticity.

In this inspiring episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, host Adam Stacey sits down with Mary Oakes, Chief Executive of Opportunity International UK, to explore her fascinating journey from studying equine science to leading a global development charity focused on financial inclusion.

Mary shares how she “fell into fundraising,” why mentorship and international fieldwork have shaped her leadership, and how Opportunity International is helping women and marginalised communities create brighter futures throughmicroloans. From the story of a young refugee entrepreneur tohonest reflections on women in leadership, this conversation is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical inspiration.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• How Mary transitioned from equine science to a purpose-driven fundraising career
• The role of international experience in shaping effective charity leaders
• What Opportunity International is doing to empower communities through microfinance
• Why mentorship, networking, and self-belief are vital for sector leadership
• The unique challenges facing women leaders in the charity world
• How Opportunity offer a “hand up, not a handout”

Key takeaways

Mary’s career shows how an unconventional start can lead to incredible impact. From her early fundraising days atTearfund to leadership roles at World Vision and now Opportunity International, her story reflects the value of saying yes to opportunities, building strong networks, and staying grounded in purpose.

She champions microloans as a transformative tool for dignity and empowerment - particularly for women - and offers heartfelt encouragement to the next generation of charity leaders.

About our guest

Mary Oakes is the Chief Executive of Opportunity International UK, an organisation that empowers people in poverty to transform their lives through financial tools, training, and support.
With a background spanning several international development charities, Mary is a passionate advocate for dignity, inclusion, and sustainable change.

Why you should listen

If you're exploring a leadership path in thecharity sector or passionate about financial empowerment and gender equity, this episode delivers practical wisdom and heartfelt stories. Mary’s reflections offer encouragement for aspiring leaders - and a powerful reminder that purpose-led work can begin in the most unexpected places.

Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast onYouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more interviews with leaders creating real impact in the nonprofit world.
Learn more about Opportunity International at www.opportunity.org.uk
Connect with Adam Stacey on LinkedIn for more discussions on charity leadership and recruitment.

Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mary Oakes and Her Journey04:54 Mary's Path to the Charity Sector

07:49 Early Days in Fundraising at Tearfund

11:03 Expanding Horizons: Experiences at World Vision

13:59 Impact of Field Visits on Fundraising

16:58 Transitioning to Leadership Roles

19:43 Navigating Challenges in the Charity Sector

23:07 Building a Supportive Network

25:55 Becoming Chief Executive of Opportunity International

29:10 Opportunity International's Mission and Work

32:08 Real Stories of Impact from Refugee Settlements

34:54 How to Support Opportunity International

37:57 Advice to Younger Self and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Charity Changemakers, we’re joined by Raakhi Shah, CEO of The Circle – a global feminist organisation founded by singer and activist Annie Lennox. Raakhi shares her inspiring journey through the charity sector, starting with her early work at Oxfam and UNICEF, and leading to her current role championing women’s rights across the globe.

Raakhi reflects on her leadership journey, including the unique challenges she faced stepping into the CEO role during the pandemic. She opens up about how The Circle works to end violence against women and empower women and girls through grassroots partnerships, advocacy, and funding.

We explore the vital importance of team culture in a remote setting, the power of global feminism, and why advocacy and fundraising for women’s rights movements have never been more crucial. Raakhi also offers brilliant advice for futureleaders on embracing non-linear career paths and the importance of resilience, networks, and values-led leadership.

Key takeaways
• A mission-driven career – Raakhi’s passion for social justice led her into the charity sector.
• Feminist leadership – The Circle centres grassroots women-led movements around the world.
• Leading through change – Raakhi became CEO during COVID-19, facing unique pressures.
• Team culture – Remote leadership requires intentional connection and strong communication.
• Advocacy and empowerment – The Circle is committed to long-term systemic change.
• Global need – Women’s rights advocacy is more vital than ever in today’s world.
• Embracing your path – Raakhi encourages future leaders to see value in a non-linear journey.
• Balance and boundaries – Looking after yourself is key to sustainable leadership.
• Collective impact – Raakhi calls on others to join the movement and support feminist causes.

Tune in and hear Raakhi’s inspiring reflections on feminism, leadership, and making lasting change.

Get involved
Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more inspiring conversations withnonprofit leaders who are making a difference.

Learn more about The Circle at ⁠https://thecircle.ngo⁠.
Connect with ⁠Adam Stacey⁠ on LinkedIn for more discussionson leadership, recruitment, and impact in the charity sector.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Raakhi Shah and The Circle
03:55 Raakhi’s journey into the charity sector
06:45 Working at Oxfam and UNICEF
09:52 The personal impact of international development work
12:51 The Circle – mission, vision and values
15:47 Advocacy and global feminism
23:33 Leadership through crisis
24:47 The growing urgency of women’s rights advocacy
27:06 How to get involved with The Circle
29:29 Becoming CEO during a pandemic
31:25 Leadership development and support networks
34:47 Building team culture remotely
39:11 Balancing personal and professional roles
43:20 Advice for future nonprofit leaders
The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify,Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!

In this episode of Charity Changemakers, we have the pleasure of hearing from Phil Kerry, the CEO of New Horizon Youth Centre, who takes us through his inspiring journey from a mathematics teacher to a leader in the charity sector tackling youth homelessness in London.

Phil opens up about the challenges he’s faced in his career, particularly the pressures of leading through times of crisis, and how his background in education shaped his approach to leadership.

Phil reflects on the pivotal role that community engagement plays in successfully addressing the complex issue of youth homelessness, sharing his insights on building partnerships and mobilising resources within localcommunities.

He also sheds light on the innovative fundraisingstrategies that have helped New Horizon sustain and expand its vital work, particularly in times of financial uncertainty.

Additionally, Phil discusses the importance of LinkedIn asa powerful tool for networking and storytelling, explaining how it has allowed him to connect with like-minded individuals, organisations, and supporters, amplifying the impact of his work and spreading awareness of youth homelessness.

Key takeaways

• From education to leadership – Phil transitioned fromteaching to charity work after volunteering abroad.
• Navigating challenges – The pandemic tested theresilience of the charity sector, demanding new leadership strategies.
• Power of community – Building strongconnections is crucial in his role.
• Leveraging LinkedIn – A key tool fornetworking and amplifying impact.
• Youth-centred approach – New Horizon providesdirect support and insights into youth homelessness.
• Funding success – Despite sectorchallenges, the organisation has increased its funding.
• Collaboration over competition – Phil believes inthe infinite game approach to leadership.
• Work-life balance – Encouraging leaders toset boundaries and invest in personal well-being.
• Advice for future leaders – Be generous, buildrelationships, and embrace long-term impact.

Tune in and gain insights on leadership, youth homelessness, and impact!

Get involved      Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more interviews with leaders who are making an impact in the nonprofit world.

Learn more about New Horizon Youth Centre at https://nhyouthcentre.org.uk.

Connect with Adam Stacey on LinkedIn for more discussions on charity leadership and recruitment.

Chapters

00:00 Transitioning from Teaching to Youth Work

10:39 Career Development and Leadership in the Charity Sector

13:33 The Role of a Chief Executive

16:25 Connecting with Frontline Services

19:31 Challenges Faced in Recent Years

21:31 Navigating Leadership Challenges in Uncertain Times

30:55 The Role of LinkedIn in Building Connections

38:29 Understanding New Horizon's Mission and Impact

The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Follow us on your favourite platform, like and review the show to help us spread the word and empower the current and next generation of changemakers!