Podcasts with purpose

Dan was also keen to encourage listeners to associate innovation with the NFP sector, something they wouldn't necessarily do otherwise.

“When in reality, for those of us that work here, we know it’s (NFP) one of the most innovative sectors going around. So, we are on a bit of a mission to change that perception through the podcast.”

Dan said the podcast aimed to achieve this by inviting sector leaders onto the show and encouraging them to share the innovative things they are doing.

“We hope we can shine a bit of a spotlight on the good work that is happening out there.”

The podcast has racked up more than 100 episodes and has attracted a sizeable cohort of senior leaders of NFPs and social enterprises as guests and listeners.

“About 60% of our audience is based in Australia but we now have a pretty big overseas following in countries like the U.S, Germany, U.K and even Uganda!” said Dan.

Dan believes one of the reasons podcasting has exploded as a medium is that it has become a channel of choice for busy people.

“They often don’t have the time to sit down and watch a one-hour video or read a long article. Podcasting is perfect as it can sit in their ear whilst they are multitasking.”

Podcasts with purpose

Feel like relaxing over summer with some of the best NFP-focused podcasts on offer? Here's a wrap of our favourites.

Purpose Buzz

“Thought-provoking conversations with inspiring people doing meaningful work” is how podcast creator and author Matt Romania describes his ad-free, self-published podcast.

Listeners can learn the stories of how guests came to be involved in the not-for-profit or charity sector, what they’ve learned from their experiences and how to connect with their causes.

The Secret Life of Carers

Produced by Carers Australia, this podcast highlights the unique experiences of Australia’s 2.65 million unpaid carers.

Tune in to hear stories from everyday people reflecting on their role as a carer; those they support and the services they access.

You can also learn from selfless carers how to become a better carer for those in need in your own life.

The Good Life: Andrew Leigh in Conversation

Not strictly NFP themed, but Charities Minister Andrew Leigh uses his podcast as a vehicle to interview people about living a happy, healthy, and ethical life.

The long list of guests has included author Tim Winton, broadcaster Andrew Denton and swimmer Emma McKeon.

ACNC Charity Chat

A one stop shop for all things charity related brought to you by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

Philanthropy Australia podcast

Each episode features a discussion about what's on the minds of the nation’s philanthropists and motivated movers and shakers in the for-purpose sector.

Topics range from advice on how to improve giving in your life to information about Philanthropy Australia events.

Small but Mighty

Crafted by the Small Non-Profits Alliance, this podcast offers expert advice and resources for – you guessed it – small not for profits.

Features include interviews with charity leaders and deep dives on hot topics that are top of mind for many organisations in the sector.

The Village Lantern

“Bringing light and love to families living with hidden conditions” is how this heartfelt podcast aimed at families who have children with neurodiverse conditions such as autism is presented.

Hosted by Anna Oxley Rintoul, the CEO of social enterprise It Takes a Village, the podcast features regular interviews with parents, medical experts and community leaders and offers sage advice on a range of topics.

All this is tied together with thoughtful conversations with co-hosts Charlotte Adorjan and Our Community’s very own Annabel Rattigan.

Charitable

If the options we’ve already highlighted aren’t enough to sate your for-purpose podcast appetite, check out this extensive list of Australian and overseas offerings curated by Apple on iTunes.