Night Owl Philanthropy Podcast - What's Your Why?

In this episode of Night Owl Philanthropy - What Is Your Why?  - Dean Jones interviews Graham Duxbury, CEO of Groundwork. Graham 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.

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 organisation, the importance of early intervention, and the challenges and successes in the sector.

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.

In this episode, Vicki Beavers, founder and CEO of The Sleep Charity, shares her personal journey with sleep deprivation, the importance of sleep for wellbeing, and how her charity is transforming sleep support across the UK. Discover practical insights, the science behind sleep, and how targeted interventions can change lives. Vicki shares her inspiring journey from personal struggles with sleep to leading the Sleep Charity, highlighting the importance of sleep for health, mental well-being, and societal impact. This episode explores her innovative approaches, partnerships, and insights into transforming sleep issues into a national movement for better health.

In this heartfelt episode, Steve Phillip shares the story behind The Jordan Legacy, shaped by the loss of his son to suicide and his determination to help prevent other families from experiencing the same pain. He reflects on grief, hope and the importance of open conversations around suicide prevention and mental health. The interview also explores the role of social media, collaboration and community action in raising awareness and building support. It is a moving conversation about turning personal loss into practical action, and about what it takes to create hope, understanding and change.

In this episode, Ian Nutt, Director of Fundraising and Engagement at Heart of England Forest, shares his journey through the worlds of nature, arts, and charity. He discusses the importance of long-term vision in environmental work, the power of community engagement, and the personal benefits of connecting with nature and creativity.

In this episode, Ashley Samuels-McKenzie shares his journey and explores the transformative power of music and media in youth development, social impact and creative pathways. The conversation looks at the role of storytelling, creative education and mentorship in helping young people build confidence and unlock potential, especially when facing adversity. It also reflects on the wider value of creativity as a tool for opportunity, connection and positive change. It is an inspiring discussion about how culture, imagination and support can shape brighter futures.

In this inspiring interview, Melanie Beck MBE DL shares her journey from elite sports to community leadership, emphasising the importance of growth, resilience, and inclusion. Discover how her experiences in sports, city development, and charity work converge to create meaningful social impact, especially in learning disability services. In this insightful interview, Melanie Beck MBE DL shares her experiences and insights on supporting adults with learning disabilities, building inclusive communities, and leading with purpose. Discover practical strategies for fostering genuine inclusion, empowering learners, and creating resilient organizations that make a lasting impact.