What happens when you bring together charity, people and community? In this episode, Jane sits down with Jo Reeder — experienced communicator, fundraiser and senior leader — for a conversation about belonging, confidence, career twists, and the power of connections that count.

Jo shares what school felt like in the 80s, how being boxed into “teacher, nurse or office job” didn’t reflect her gifts, and how she built a meaningful career by leaning into what she was good at: people, communication and community.

This episode is packed with honest reflections on navigating the working world, finding the confidence to walk away from unhealthy environments, and why network and relationships are everything — especially in the charity and not-for-profit space.

In this episode, we cover

• ​ Why belonging has shaped Jo’s whole life and career
• ​ School in the 80s: when grades were everything and options felt limited
• ​ “I didn’t feel as good as my friends” — and what that can do to confidence
• ​ The moment Jo decided: “I’m never being treated like that again.”
• ​ What confidence looks like now: building a toolkit over time
• ​ How theatre and performance develop transferable skills for work
• ​ Jo’s journey through BT, local press, fundraising, senior leadership and CEO roles
• ​ What a CEO/Chief Exec in the charity/not-for-profit sector actually does
• ​ Where charity funding comes from — and why collaboration matters now more than ever
• ​ What Jo would tell her younger self: be curious, listen, build relationships
• ​ A fun School Run memory: the pyjama school run (and the sweet shop stops!)

About Jo Reeder

Jo Reeder is an experienced communicator, fundraiser and senior manager with a love for all things charity, people and community. She has worked across fundraising, marketing and leadership, and is passionate about collaboration and strengthening communities through meaningful partnerships.

Connect with Jo

• ​ Find Jo on LinkedIn: Jo Reeder

Connect with Jane / Little Voices

• ​ Instagram: @theschoolrun_official / @mrsjanejames
• ​ Little Voices: @littlevoiceslimited + www.littlevoices.org.uk

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@littlevoiceslimited

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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it.

This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real