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