Episode 44... and Debra and Peter’s 44th birthday, right? 🎂 (well, not quite, but close enough 😉).This week’s conversation covers three big themes in the charity world:First up, party political conferences. Are they really worth the time and money for charities, or just expensive networking sessions filled with bad white wine? Debra and Peter share why these events can feel unwelcoming, tribal, and sometimes downright pointless.Next, they explore a bold move: five funders teaming up on a £15 million initiative to tackle child poverty. Is this the future of grantmaking or just a well-meaning experiment with some inevitable hiccups? Peter reflects on lessons from his Lottery days, and Debra unpacks the risks and rewards of genuine co-funding.Finally, the spotlight turns to the power and responsibility of funders. From local grant officers who truly know their communities, to the tension between AI automation and the irreplaceable human touch, they discuss how funders can use their voice and infrastructure to make lasting change.It’s a mix of sharp insights, humour, and a reminder that sometimes the best birthday treat is just a pizza in front of the telly.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 43! Debra and Peter dive into some of the toughest issues facing the UK charity sector and wider society.They begin with Peter’s joy at Somerset’s cricket triumph before quickly turning to more serious matters: the protests around Donald Trump’s state visit, the disturbing rise of racism and anti-immigration sentiment, and how politicians and the media fuel unfounded fears. Debra argues strongly against framing prejudice as ‘legitimate concerns’, and both hosts reflect on the stark contrast between attitudes to Ukrainian refugees and asylum seekers from elsewhere.The conversation then shifts to leadership. How long should a chief executive stay in post? What’s the difference between a tough job and one that makes you miserable? Debra shares frank stories about her early years at DSC, including staff hostility, and gives practical advice on tackling bullying—whether from above, below or sideways.Plus: some sharp words on government reshuffles, and why constant ministerial change makes life harder for charities.What do you think: are immigration fears being mishandled, and how long is too long in a leadership role? Let us know in the comments.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 42 takes us from Somerset cricket glory to some of the sector’s toughest debates.Peter kicks off with tales of nail-biting wins and rubbing shoulders with cricket legends at a South African charity event. But the conversation soon widens to Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams and the unseen, everyday role of charities in keeping society ticking.From there, Debra and Peter tackle flags and patriotism. What do symbols really mean? When does pride tip into exclusion, and why do flags make some people feel celebrated while leaving others intimidated? Expect frank exchanges on history, nationalism and belonging.Then it’s on to Prince Harry’s £1m donation to Children in Need. Does motivation matter, or should charities simply welcome the funds? This leads into a wider exploration of “tainted money”, trustee responsibilities and the Charity Commission’s rules on refusing donations.It’s an episode full of sharp contrasts: cricket and community, pride and discomfort, generosity and suspicion. And as ever, Debra and Peter bring warmth, candour and a touch of humour to the hardest questions in the sector.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: Justin Martin

In Episode 41, Debra and Peter start with a surprise escape story featuring Peter’s cat Hetti, but quickly turn to a much bigger theme: trust. From mischievous pets to newly promoted staff, they reflect on how leaders know when to let go and how to find the right balance between support and autonomy.Debra shares why she prefers hiring for potential rather than experience, and why the 50th anniversary of DSC is a good time to remember—and question—your founding principles.Then, a fiery segment on meetings, sparked by England cricket captain Harry Brook’s comment that meetings are a waste of time. Debra is having none of it. The hosts explore how meetings are actually crucial to effective leadership, team building and problem solving. Expect talk of De Bono’s Six Hats, appreciative inquiry and “what if” thinking.Finally, they wade into the eternal debate: are there too many charities? Debra and Peter offer a firm defence of choice, diversity and grassroots energy, arguing that the sector’s complexity is a strength, not a flaw.Plus: cricket, cats and a few gentle digs at Thames Water.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: Gabby Poznansky

Episode 40! Debra and Peter return with a packed conversation that moves from the cricket ground to the boardroom and into the heart of the refugee sector.They reflect on what good trusteeship really means, and why it’s not just down to the chair to keep everyone informed. Boards work best when responsibility is shared, and when every trustee knows they are fully accountable.The discussion then turns to a pressing issue: refugee and migrant charities facing growing hostility. From online abuse to threats at the office door, Debra and Peter explore how organisations can balance the need for transparency with the duty to protect staff and volunteers. It’s a sobering reminder of the climate many charities now operate in, and a call for compassion over hostility.

Debra also highlights this thoughtful LinkedIn post by José Blazquez on the subject: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jose-pablo-blazquez_refugeeswelcome-empathyinaction-charitysector-activity-7366443037574492161-EAiv?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAXFFmEBuE48r931JfDxY9By6LgWGDUJkvUAnd for leaders heading into autumn, there’s practical advice on creating boundaries that actually work. From the “acting-in-absence” policy, to why your diary shouldn’t look like a supermarket barcode, to the now-classic glass vs plastic balls metaphor, it’s about leading well without burning out.Plus: baking, Brussels, and a few friendly grumbles about cricket.Have a thought to share? Comment below or email us with your views!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blazquez

Leadership comes first. When a chair walks into a staff away day, the power in the room shifts. Debra and Peter explore how to be present without taking over. Set expectations clearly, invite staff to shape the work, listen with intent, and keep your own opinions light so the team can do its best work.Then, what you wear and why. Clothes send signals whether we like it or not. From suits and ties to hoodies and T-shirts, they unpack how context shapes choices, how to show respect without losing authenticity, and why women still get judged more harshly. Zelensky at the White House comes up as a useful example of principle meeting pragmatism.Finally, volunteers on the street. Where is the line between helpful community action and risky vigilante patrols? The Bournemouth case prompts a look at safeguarding, accountability and why collaboration with the police beats going it alone.Plus: three cats testing a new cat flap, a Brussels away day with the Five Rights Foundation team, bins and fly tipping, and a nod to Amanda Jade Wellington at the Oval.Tell us how you handle leadership presence at away days, what dress signals work in your context, and where you stand on street patrols. Add your thoughts in the comments.YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 38 finds Peter settling into life in Somerset after a house move that involved three cats, upside-down beds, and a crash course in rural fruit-picking. But between the rhubarb and the plums, there’s been time for big conversations.Debra’s recent viral LinkedIn post on why leaders should never criticise their predecessors kicks off a deep dive into leadership transitions, respecting the past while building for the future, and the value of framing change positively. The pair share personal experiences, from NSPCC history exercises to 15-year-old work experience gone awry, all showing how fresh eyes and old habits collide.The discussion widens to the hard truths about volunteering: its true costs, why it’s not a free resource, and the tension between financial necessity and community values – illustrated by the Samaritans’ controversial branch closures. And finally, they dissect the Charity Commission’s report on Sentebale, exploring how governance can collapse without clear behaviour codes and conflict resolution rules.Plus, Somerset County Cricket Club turns 150, there’s cider talk, and Debra offers Peter culinary suggestions for his glut of pears.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline

More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/

More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change: https://www.dsc.org.uk

Podcast Producer: José Blazquez

Debra and Peter are back, with plums, pears and punchy opinions.Peter shares what it’s like to chair a global board for the first time (hint: annual accounts are involved), while Debra unveils a secret weapon for apple harvesting. But most of this week’s chat tackles the big stuff:Child online safety: With Ofcom’s new Online Safety powers kicking in, Peter reflects on years of advocacy for stronger digital protections. They take on free speech sceptics, tech company excuses, and why we wouldn’t let kids near unsafe toys. So why accept it online?Board governance: From trustee-only sessions to strategic away days, Peter’s debut meeting at Five Rights Foundation prompts an honest exchange about what boards really need to work well.Doom loops vs determination: Debra explains why she compared the Lionesses’ Euro run to charity sector resilience, and why grim media headlines don’t reflect the full story.All that, plus why apple mush is the enemy and how a heavy-duty grabber changed Debra’s life.Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Links and resourcesDebra’s Lionesses piece (DSC blog): https://www.dsc.org.uk/content/what-charities-can-learn-from-the-england-womens-football-team/Five Rights Foundation: child-rights resources – https://5rightsfoundation.com/resources/Ofcom’s Online Safety Act consultation – https://www.ofcom.org.uk/online-safety/illegal-and-harmful-content/protecting-children-from-harms-online/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez