People Inspired By Purpose - Purposely Podcast

In a recent interview with Mark Longbottom, Sarah Ramantanis shared her experiences as CEO of Young Australians in International Affairs, a voluntary organisation. She spoke about her journey into leadership and her approach to marketing and communications, which is built on clarity and accessibility.Sarah stepped into the role of CEO after working in various marketing and communications positions. She highlights the importance of understanding different audiences and engaging them effectively. Her leadership style prioritises simplicity and efficiency, ensuring information is clear and accessible to everyone.She offers practical advice for nonprofit leaders looking to improve communication. She stresses the need for clear messaging, both internally and externally. Strategic planning is also key. She recommends developing a three-year strategic plan with input from across the organisation so that everyone understands their role and contributes to the mission.Consistent and relevant communication matters more than frequency. Nonprofits should focus on the platforms that best serve their audience. For example, Sarah's organisation decided to deactivate its Facebook page when it no longer met their needs.She also values honesty about challenges. Sharing both successes and setbacks helps build trust and authenticity. Strong relationships with other organisations and stakeholders can strengthen a nonprofit’s work and broaden its impact.Being open to learning and adapting is another priority for Sarah. She sees value in diverse experiences and perspectives. To maintain balance and motivation, she suggests listening to your body, acknowledging achievements, and expressing gratitude. Taking care of yourself helps maintain energy and focus.She also emphasises the importance of being punctual and present in meetings. Showing up on time and engaging fully demonstrates respect and commitment. Consistency in these habits builds trust and a strong work ethic.Sarah Ramantanis’ approach to leadership and communication is based on clarity, authenticity, and strategic thinking. Her insights offer practical guidance for anyone in the nonprofit sector looking to strengthen their organisation’s impact.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic.This week's episode features David Rhode Nonprofit founder, Consultant & Author of Passionate Isn't Enough - A Practical Guide to Nonprofit Leadership.David founded Pitch In For Baseball in 2005, a charity that provides sports equipment to under-resourced communities. David left the charity in 2019, he joins host Mark Longbottom to share his experiences of setting up and growing a nonprofit, offering practical insights for others in the sector.He talks about the challenges of securing early funding without a track record and how personal connections played a key role in getting started. He explains how his first board, made up of friends and family, helped him access resources and build credibility.David also reflects on leadership, highlighting how passion and a clear vision helped him attract support. He discusses the strategic partnerships that strengthened his charity, including a collaboration with Little League International, which improved their ability to distribute equipment.Drawing on his background in branding at a Global corporate, David stresses the importance of a strong organisational identity. He shares how his understanding of funding evolved over time and how partnerships with major baseball teams expanded their reach.He also talks openly about the lessons he learned in board management. While his early board members were enthusiastic, he later realised the need for clearer expectations and more defined roles.Tune in for practical advice and insights from David’s journey in the nonprofit sector. His experiences highlight the value of persistence, partnerships, and learning along the way

Mark Longbottom spoke with Emma Maddren, CEO of Mercy Hospice in Auckland, New Zealand. Emma discussed the hospice’s mission, history, and the challenges of delivering end-of-life care. Mercy Hospice has a long-standing commitment to supporting people at the end of their lives, particularly those who may not receive adequate care through the traditional health system. The hospice movement, which began in the 1960s, grew from a community-led effort to ensure people receive dignified care in their final days. Emma highlighted the role of community involvement in hospice care. Mercy Hospice works closely with cultural groups, including indigenous communities, to ensure care is respectful and aligned with different cultural traditions. This approach helps provide tailored support for people with diverse needs. The hospice offers both inpatient and home-based care, depending on what suits patients and their families best. The aim is to allow people to spend their final days in a place where they feel most comfortable, often at home, with the necessary support to ensure dignity and comfort. One of the biggest challenges Mercy Hospice faces is funding. It relies on a mix of public funding, private donations, and community fundraising. Emma spoke about the increasing demand for services due to an ageing population and the need to balance specialist care with empowering communities to provide local support. Emma also shared her journey into healthcare and leadership. With a background in clinical work and leadership roles in the sector, she emphasised the importance of staying focused on patient and family needs. She also spoke about the need for work-life balance, noting that time with family and personal interests help her manage the demands of her role. The conversation with Emma Maddren provided a valuable perspective on the work of Mercy Hospice. The organisation’s focus on community engagement and culturally responsive care ensures that people receive the support they need at the end of their lives. As demand grows, Mercy Hospice continues to adapt while maintaining its commitment to dignified and respectful care.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic. This week's episode features Ed Mayo CEO at Pilotlight, discussing how skilled volunteering can help charities deliver their mission more effectively. Many small charities struggle to access professional expertise, yet skilled volunteers can play a crucial role beyond financial contributions. Ed discusses how volunteering can provide charities with vital skills in areas like finance, digital, and governance—while also offering professionals valuable experience in leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving. We also look at the mindset challenges charities face, particularly around funding, and why the real focus should be on strategic effectiveness. Ed shares insights on how businesses can benefit from engaging with charities, highlighting the exchange of skills that strengthens both sectors. 🎧 Listen now and explore how skilled volunteering can create real impact.

Welcoming Shaun Robinson, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand to Purposely Podcast. Shaun brings both professional expertise and personal experience to his role. Having lived with bipolar disorder, Shaun understands the challenges it brings and is committed to improving mental health support for all New Zealanders. As CEO, Shaun is dedicated to enhancing mental wellbeing across Aotearoa. Under his leadership, the Foundation works towards a society where people do more than just cope—they thrive. Mental health, in his view, is not simply about the absence of illness but about fostering optimism, engagement, and a sense of purpose. Shaun promotes a shift away from the traditional model of treating symptoms and towards a proactive approach—empowering communities with the skills and knowledge to build lasting mental wellbeing. This perspective is captured in the idea of flourishing versus languishing: flourishing means feeling positive, connected, and engaged, while languishing is marked by a sense of emptiness and disconnection. His goal is to help as many people as possible reach a state of flourishing. Shaun is a strong advocate for practical, everyday actions that support mental health. The "Five Ways to Wellbeing" offer a simple yet effective framework: Connect – Build strong relationships and a sense of belonging. Give – Acts of kindness not only help others but also enhance your own sense of purpose. Take Notice – Be present and appreciate life’s small moments. Move – Physical activity benefits both body and mind. Keep Learning – Stay curious and open to new ideas. These principles are more than just concepts for Shaun—they are part of his daily life. He even keeps a magnet with the Five Ways to Wellbeing on his fridge as a constant reminder. Shaun’s experience with bipolar disorder has profoundly shaped his leadership and advocacy. He first noticed symptoms in his teens but was only diagnosed in his mid-30s. Living with bipolar has been both a challenge and, at times, a strength—giving him bursts of energy and focus that he channels into his work. Managing his condition has required a combination of medication, lifestyle habits, and strong support networks. This lived experience enables him to lead with authenticity and empathy, helping to break down stigma and foster understanding. By openly sharing his journey, Shaun reassures others that they are not alone and that mental health challenges do not define a person’s potential. Shaun believes that everyone deserves access to the resources and support needed to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their mental health challenges. Through his leadership, the Mental Health Foundation continues to champion a holistic, strengths-based approach—one that encourages people to take proactive steps toward wellbeing rather than waiting until they are struggling. His story is a powerful reminder that mental health is a journey, not a destination. By fostering connection, resilience, and a culture of support, Shaun is helping to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. The Five Ways to WellbeingA Personal Perspective on Mental HealthA Vision for a Thriving Society

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic. This week's episode features Vic Elizabeth Turnbull, the founder & CEO of MIC Media. If you're considering starting a podcast, this episode is particularly useful. Vic underscores the importance of understanding the "why" behind starting a podcast, whether it's for internal reasons like gaining clients or for external impact such as sharing compelling stories. She emphasises the need to identify your target audience and ensure that your content adds value to listeners. Vic offers practical advice, including using affordable microphones, recording in quiet spaces, and leveraging AI tools to improve audio quality. This episode aims to provide actionable insights for effectively delivering charitable missions through podcasting.

Paul Brown recently joined Mark Longbottom on the Purposely Podcast to share his unique career journey, which has taken him from corporate roles to leading nonprofit organisations, with a strong focus on international development. Paul began his career in the corporate sector after earning a degree in civil engineering. He worked in marketing roles at Ford Motor Company and ASB Bank. However, in 2000, his priorities shifted. Wanting to contribute to his community, he began volunteering at Starship Children’s Hospital. This experience sparked his passion for making a difference and led him to join ChildFund New Zealand. Stepping into the nonprofit sector presented a steep learning curve. Just two weeks into his new role, the Asian tsunami struck, requiring an urgent and effective fundraising response. This experience highlighted the need for organisations to be prepared for global emergencies and strengthened Brown’s commitment to the work. During his 17 years at ChildFund, Brown helped transform the organisation. He expanded its focus from fundraising alone to prioritising programme impact. He championed initiatives that supported long-term community development, particularly in the Pacific region, and worked to address local issues like inequality and child poverty in New Zealand. One of Brown’s key contributions to the sector was helping establish the Emergency Alliance, a coalition of nine aid agencies in New Zealand. The Alliance collaborates to respond more effectively to global emergencies, reducing inefficiencies caused by competition for donor funds. Its first joint appeal supported the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, although it faced challenges in gaining public engagement. Beyond his work with Emergency Alliance, Brown leads BoardWorks, a consultancy focused on improving governance across New Zealand. Through BoardWorks, he helps organisations strengthen their boards, ensuring they stay mission-focused and operate effectively. To hear more from Paul Brown and other leaders in the nonprofit sector, visit www.purposelypodcast.com.

David Rhode, recently joined me, Mark Longbottom, on the Purposely Podcast from New York. During our conversation, David shared insights from his journey as a founder and nonprofit consultant, highlighting lessons from his upcoming book, Passion Isn’t Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders. Passion Isn’t Enough reflects David’s belief, rooted in personal experience, that passion alone is insufficient to start, scale, and sustain a successful charity. The book offers actionable guidance and lessons drawn from David’s journey, equipping nonprofit leaders with the tools to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful impact. Reflecting on the project, David described it as one of his most meaningful endeavours, emphasising its focus on practical strategies and solutions. A Founder’s Journey David’s deep understanding of the nonprofit sector stems from his personal experience founding and leading a charity. In 2005, he established Pitch In For Baseball and Softball, an organisation dedicated to providing sports equipment to underserved communities. This initiative was inspired by David’s love for sports and his desire to create opportunities for children in need. Over the years, the organisation has impacted nearly one million young people, fostering their physical, emotional, and social development. David’s journey was not without obstacles. In the early days, he relied heavily on the support of friends, family, and professional networks who believed in his vision. The turning point came during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when Pitch In For Baseball and Softball adapted to provide disaster relief, delivering equipment to affected communities. This experience underscored a critical lesson: while passion ignites a mission, adaptability and strategy sustain it. David’s success as a founder reinforced his belief that passion must be paired with strategic planning, professional management, and disciplined execution. He credits much of his achievements to the unwavering support of his family, who played integral roles in the organisation’s journey. From assisting with board meetings to participating in international deliveries, their collective commitment was a cornerstone of the nonprofit’s success. After nearly 15 years leading Pitch In For Baseball and Softball, David transitioned to a consultancy role, mentoring nonprofit leaders and helping organisations navigate their challenges. Through this work, he has provided tailored guidance to countless executive directors, empowering them to lead with clarity and purpose. The idea for Passion Isn’t Enough stemmed from David’s desire to extend his impact beyond one-on-one coaching. Drawing from his own experiences and incorporating insights from 20 other nonprofit leaders, the book serves as a comprehensive guide to effective nonprofit management. David collaborated with a research assistant and sought feedback from young leaders to ensure the book’s relevance and practicality. Inspiring Sustainable Impact David’s hope is that Passion Isn’t Enough will empower nonprofit professionals to overcome challenges, maintain focus on their missions, and drive meaningful change. He emphasises the importance of discipline, strategic planning, and avoiding mission creep to ensure long-term success. As David continues to inspire and mentor nonprofit leaders, his new book stands as a testament to his belief that combining passion with strategy is the key to creating sustainable impact. By sharing his founder’s story and the lessons he has learned, David aims to inspire a new generation of leaders to pursue their missions with purpose and precision. For more insights and to hear David’s full interview, visit www.purposelypodcast.com.  

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This week's episode features Margi Mellsop CEO at Middlemore Foundation.

First published in 2024, Mark Longbottom interviews Ian Bird, the new CEO of ⁠Community Foundations Australia ⁠(CFA), to the Purposely Podcast. In this episode, Ian shares his vision for the future of Australian community foundations, drawing from his extensive experience as the former CEO of Community Foundations of Canada and his remarkable career as an Olympic hockey player. Interestingly, Ian represented Canada in field hockey at the Australian-hosted Olympics in 2000 in Sydney, as well as in South Korea. Having played hockey from a young age, Ian speaks passionately about his love for the sport and the camaraderie it fosters. A natural leader, Ian began his career in Vancouver and later founded the first youth Field Hockey club in Quebec, called Chelsea Phoenix Field Hockey, where he also served as the head coach. Under his guidance, the Quebec team achieved multiple national championships. During his tenure as the CEO of Community Foundations of Canada from 2011 to 2020, Ian Bird proved to be a transformational leader. He oversaw the organisation's evolution into a "network of purpose" by fostering collaboration with various sectors and addressing diverse priorities, including reconciliation with Indigenous communities, gender equity, social finance, and evolving patterns in giving. Ian's primary goal as the CEO of CFA is to expand the reach of community foundations across Australia. Currently, only slightly over half of the Australian population has access to a local community foundation. With more than 40 community foundations already established, Ian aims to build upon the existing strength and vision within the network. He firmly believes that Australian community foundations have the potential to leapfrog ahead in development by incorporating Indigenous peoples' experiences from the start and drawing on the Australian ethos of directness and openness. Ian Bird is a champion for inclusivity in Australian community foundations. His vision revolves around creating opportunities for those who may not typically participate. He aims to develop a network that ensures all Australians have access to a community foundation, fostering self-determination and empowering communities to generate funding and solutions on the ground. By building a strong network of purpose, community foundations can address local issues and collaborate on challenges that transcend any one community, such as climate change and housing challenges. Ian draws inspiration from the success of the community foundation movement in Canada, which has a rich history spanning 100 years. He highlights the importance of highly trusted local institutions that allow neighbours to witness and participate in giving. The Canadian experience has shown that having a tangible place to make a gift accelerates the pace of giving and creates a social messaging that encourages more philanthropy. Ian aims to replicate this success in Australia by leveraging existing infrastructure and fostering partnerships with private funders, universities, health authorities, and other civil organisations. Ian believes that the current moment presents an opportunity for Australians to create a different future by sharing resources and building a true community support infrastructure. By fostering grassroots-driven change and community-based self-determination, Australia can become more resilient and effectively address pressing issues with a fresh perspective. Ian's vision aligns with the shared agenda of political leaders across parliamentary parties, emphasising the power of collaboration and collective action.