Starts at the Top Podcast

Episode 73 - Jim Sanders, Director of Innovation and Transformation at RNIB

AI and Accessibility: RNIB's Innovative Approach to Inclusive Technology

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!

In tech news, Zoe and Paul discuss the recent BBC Panorama programme about screen time for children and parenting, Can We Live Without Our Phones?

 

Notes
Find out more about RNIB
https://www.rnib.org.uk/

BBC Panorama programme - Can We Live Without Our Phones?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gdqzxypdzo

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.

Episode 72 - Tim Cook, founder of AIConfident talks to us about Ethical AI

Ethical AI: Charting the Course for Responsible Leadership

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.

Paul and Zoe also discuss the role of social media in the UK riots and what this means for organisations using these platforms.

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
Find out more about AIConfident
https://www.aiconfident.co.uk/

UK Riots
Third Sector article https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/zoe-amar-uk-riots-turning-point-sector-fights-racism/management/article/1883476
News Agents’ episode about the far right on and offline https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/inside-the-cult-of-the-far-right/id1640878689?i=1000664840838

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.

 

Episode 71 - Devi Thomas of Microsoft Philanthropies and Dan Kershaw CEO of Furniture Bank

Demystifying AI: A Charity Leader's Guide to Digital Innovation

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:
Find out more about Furniture Bank https://www.furniturebank.org/about-furniture-bank/ and their AI generated campaign https://www.furniturebank.org/postcard/

Leadership news:
Article about new Labour MP intake https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c727ny2jd84o

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.

Episode 70 - Polly Neate, CEO at Shelter

Leading Through Crisis: Polly Neate on Resilience, Empathy & Speaking Truth to Power

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.

Please note our interview with Polly was recorded before the UK election was announced.

 

Notes
Find out more about Shelter

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

 

Tech news

BBC story- Bot or not: Are fake accounts swaying voters towards Reform UK?

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

Guardian article on the UK’s first AI MP:

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

Guardian article on smart doorbells and election campaigning:

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/article/2024/jun/17/canvassing-to-empty-houses-knocking-on-doors-in-the-smart-doorbell-era

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.

Episode 69 - Berry Cochrane, CEO of digital mobilisation agency, Forward Action

As the UK hurtles towards a momentous election, the digital landscape has become a fierce battleground where the fight for hearts and minds is being waged. In this crucial episode, we sit down with Berry Cochrane, CEO of digital mobilisation agency Forward Action, to explore how charities and organisations in the for good space can harness the power of digital to drive change and build people power at scale.

With a wealth of experience from leading digital teams at Greenpeace and Amnesty International UK, Berry brings a unique perspective on what it takes to stand out in a crowded online space. She shares eye-opening insights on how organisations can craft creative campaigns that cut through the noise and prompt meaningful action, like Forward Action's impactful work on the Rwanda deportation flights.

But as the election looms, the challenges are mounting. Berry dives deep into the pervasive issue of online misinformation and disinformation, offering practical strategies for how charities can prepare and protect their communities from the onslaught of fake news that threatens to drown out vital voices.

In a world where traditional mobilisation tactics are losing their edge, Berry reveals the urgent need for organisations to innovate and adapt. She explores the untapped potential of digital organising to build volunteer power and shares how Forward Action is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of AI-powered campaigning.

As the stakes couldn't be higher, this episode is a clarion call for progressive leaders to embrace the power of digital mobilisation. Berry challenges us to create meaningful calls to action that inspire people to become agents of change, reminding us that every click, share, and online action has the potential to shape the future of our society.

Tune in to discover how you can navigate the digital minefield of this election year and emerge as a force for good. The time to mobilise is now – let's seize this moment and build a movement that will be felt for generations to come.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through the latest AI election developments, including how these technologies are being used to target younger voters.

Please note our interview with Berry was recorded before the UK election was announced.

 

Notes
Find out more about Forward Action

https://forwardaction.uk/

Tech news

 

TikTok users being fed misleading election news- BBC story https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1ww6vz1l81o

Broadcasters cannot stop ‘deepfakes’ and misinformation on election day- Yahoo news
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/broadcasters-cannot-stop-deepfakes-misinformation-121540189.html
Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.

Episode 68 - Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers - How Leaders Can Champion LGBTQIA+ Inclusion

The Safe Space Imperative: How Leaders Can Champion LGBTQIA+ Inclusion

We chat with Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers

As the UK gears up for a historic election, the need for safe, inclusive spaces has never been more critical. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lucy Straker (she/they), co-founder of Proud Changemakers, to explore how they're transforming the landscape for LGBTQIA+ people across civil society.

Lucy shares the inspiring story of how Proud Changemakers was born from a burning desire to create a platform where LGBTQIA+ voices could be heard, celebrated, and empowered. From their groundbreaking podcast to their vibrant social media presence, Lucy and their team are on a mission to spark change and foster belonging in a world that often feels anything but safe.

We dive deep into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in organisations of all sizes, from the isolation of being the sole representative in a small charity to navigating the complex dynamics of large LGBTQIA+ networks. Lucy offers invaluable insights on how leaders can cultivate genuinely inclusive environments where every person can thrive.

With a career spanning over 15 years in the voluntary sector, Lucy brings a wealth of expertise in communications, campaigning, and community building. They reveal the game-changing potential of grassroots movements like Proud Changemakers to drive sector-wide transformation and imagine a bold future where their model could revolutionise inclusion across all industries.

At a time when the stakes couldn't be higher, this episode is a rallying cry for leaders everywhere to stand with the LGBTQIA+ community, champion diversity, and build a society where every voice is valued. Tune in to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to lead the change.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through what’s new in the world of AI. Please note this episode was recorded before the UK general election was announced, on 22 May 2024.

 

Notes
Find out more about Proud Changemakers

https://linktr.ee/proudchangemakers

 

Tech news

LinkedIn post about AI and inclusion https://www.linkedin.com/posts/zoeamar_artificialintelligence-charities-inclusion-activity-7197151633812668417-EGjE?

BBC story about Geoff Hinton and Universal Basic Income https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnd607ekl99o.amp

Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.

Episode 67 - Nels Abbey, broadcaster, satirist and author of ‘The Hip Hop MBA’

Beats and the boardroom: what leaders can learn from hip hop

We chat to Nels Abbey, broadcaster, satirist and author of ‘The Hip Hop MBA’

 

What can organisations learn about leadership from the unlikeliest of teachers - hip hop's biggest moguls? On this thought-provoking episode, we're joined by writer, broadcaster, media executive and satirist Nels Abbey to break down the invaluable leadership insights found in his new book The Hip Hop MBA.

From the book's origins after a chance London street encounter to unpacking why hip hop icons like Jay-Z, Missy Elliott and 50 Cent deserve to be studied alongside traditional business legends, Nels compellingly redefines the way we think about leadership success.

We explore the resilience, decision-making skills, and sheer grit required for rap artists to beat the odds and build enduring empires. Nels shares priceless lessons from the paths of visionaries like Ice Cube walking away from a record deal and Suge Knight's tragic downfall after his ambition went unchecked.

How have hip hop's greatest overcome adversity to display a leadership mastery that leaders should study? Nels argues that nurturing this same authentic, passionate, innovative mindset is exactly what we all need  to escape the traditional, myopic view of what a leader should be.

Get ready to have your preconceptions shattered as Nels uses hip hop's most controversial and unlikely success stories to teach an urgent masterclass in courageous, forward-thinking leadership. You'll never see the boardroom the same way again.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through what’s new in the world of AI.

 

Notes

Nels Abbey’s new book https://canongate.co.uk/books/3972-the-hip-hop-mba-lessons-in-cut-throat-capitalism-from-raps-moguls/

Follow Nels on social media:

https://twitter.com/nelsabbey?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/nelsabbey/

 

Tech news

AI and the Met Gala https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-68968708

Open AI releases Deep Fake detector https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/07/technology/openai-deepfake-detector.html

Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.

Episode 66 - Mark Shayler, Founder of Ape and Author of ‘You Can’t Make Money From A Dead Planet’

Sustainability: From Buzzword to Business Imperative

We speak to Mark Shayler, Author of ‘You Can’t Make Money From A Dead Planet’

 

Can profit and planet truly go hand-in-hand? How can leaders get sustainability on the boardroom agenda and baked into the DNA of their organisation? In this candid chat, Mark Shayler - bestselling author, sustainability guru and founder of Ape, a sustainability and innovation studio - pulls no punches on what it takes to make environmental responsibility a revenue-protecting business imperative, not just a box-ticking exercise. Mark joins us to discuss his recent book ‘You Can’t Make Money From a Dead Planet.’

Having advised big hitters like Nike, Bacardi and WPP, saving them over $200 million a year through greener practices, Mark offers real-world insights for leaders wanting to shift sustainability from greenwashing to genuine competitive advantage. This is an honest discussion about squaring profit with planet, getting buy-in from leaders, and Mark shares simple steps that will help even small organisations begin their journey towards sustainability. This is essential listening for any organisation that is serious about doing good business, and business for good, in the 21st century.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss the latest AI developments.

 

Notes

Mark Shayler’s new book https://www.koganpage.com/responsible-business/you-can-t-make-money-from-a-dead-planet-9781398612020

Ape Studios https://www.thisisape.co.uk/

Tech news

Share your views in The Charity Digital Skills Report survey

Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.

 

 

Episode 65 - Nikki Bell, Co-Founder of Fundraising Everywhere - Why we need to talk about grief in the workplace.

Why we need to talk about grief in the workplace

We chat with Nikki Bell, Co-Founder of Fundraising Everywhere

 

Bereavement will affect all of us in our lifetime. So why aren’t we talking about it more in the workplace?

We explore this topic with Nikki Bell, co-founder of Fundraising Everywhere, in this episode of Starts At The Top. Last year she and the Fundraising Everywhere team lost a close friend and colleague, Mandi Hine-Conway.

This is a brave and honest conversation about why we need to talk about grief more at work, and how to support colleagues who have lost someone. We’re very grateful to Nikki for being so candid and for her warm and open-hearted discussion of why and how we need to look after the people we work with better.

Every conversation we’ve had with Nikki has been inspiring and life-affirming and this is no exception.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode is an open and honest conversation about grief and how leaders can best respond to death and grief in the workplace. If these are topics you would like to avoid at this time, please be kind to yourself and come back to this episode at a later date.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss the latest AI developments.

 

Notes

Fundraising Everywhere https://www.fundraisingeverywhere.com/

Tech news

Microsoft’s new London AI Hub

https://www.itpro.com/business/microsofts-new-london-ai-hub-is-another-huge-vote-of-confidence-in-the-uks-tech-sector

Music artists take on AI

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-68717863

Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.

Episode 64 - Dr Lucy Ryan, Managing Director of Mindspring International and author of ‘Revolting Women: why midlife women walk out (and what to do about it)’

Women in leadership special part 4: Dr Lucy Ryan, author of ‘Revolting Women’ on why midlife women are leaving the workplace

We speak to Dr Lucy Ryan, author of ‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’

Did you know that by January 2023 the number of women not in work had risen by 151,000 compared to 2020? More than twice as many women as men were not working because of family responsibilities.

So when we saw that Dr Lucy Ryan had written a new book about why midlife women are leaving the workplace in their droves we knew we had to talk to her. Managing Director of Mindspring International for the last 20 years, Lucy has trained, consulted with, and coached over 10,000 leaders in global, blue-chip companies across 29 countries. She is also the author of ‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’ , a book about one group that is often ignored in EDI strategies: midlife women.

We asked Lucy about what leaders need to do to turn back the tide of talented midlife women who are leaving the workforce. By the time women reach middle age they have accumulated a huge amount of knowledge and experience, and organisations cannot afford to lose them. We discuss how leaders can prevent this from happening. Lucy takes us through her agenda for change - and tells us why we all need to get behind it.

Thank you to Lucy for a wonderful conversation. It left us feeling inspired and energised, and we hope it does the same for you.

In tech news, Paul and Zoe discuss social media addiction and how they’re trying to break bad habits with their phones.

 

Notes

‘Revolting Women:Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out’ https://practicalinspiration.com/book/revolting-women

Mimdspring https://mindspring.uk.com/pages/lucy-ryan

Tech news

The Honest Broker blog on dopamine culture https://www.honest-broker.com/p/the-state-of-the-culture-2024

The Guardian’s course on screentime reduction

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/mar/19/reclaim-your-brain-readers-screen-time-reduced

Email us with your questions and ideas for future episodes startsatthetop@gmail.com

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.