S2 | E9 – Sophie Castell on leadership, storytelling, and switching from Coca-Cola to charity

Episode summary
In this special edition of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, Adam Stacey speaks with Sophie Castell, Chief Executive of Myeloma UK, in honour of Myeloma Awareness Week.

Sophie shares her journey from a high-flying commercial role at Coca-Cola to leading a national charity that’s transforming the lives of people affected by myeloma, an incurable blood cancer.

The conversation touches on leadership lessons, the role of storytelling in fundraising, the power of strong sector networks, and the urgency of early diagnosis. Sophie also reflects on the transition from corporate to charity life, the need for resilience, and why staying open to new opportunities matters more than ever.

Key takeaways

• Sophie Castell is Chief Executive of Myeloma UK

• Myeloma Awareness Week highlights the importance of early diagnosis and symptom recognition

• Sophie’s journey began in the commercial world, including time at Coca-Cola

• Storytelling is a powerful tool in fundraising and engagement

• Peer support and sector networks are essential for charity leaders

• Charity leadership requires juggling multiple complex responsibilities

• Early diagnosis can dramatically improve outcomes for people with myeloma

• Resilience and adaptability are key leadership qualities

• A broad skill set helps navigate an evolving charity landscape

• Openness to new opportunities supports both personal and professional growth

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Sophie Castell and Myeloma UK
06:47 – Sophie’s journey into the charity sector
12:46 – Transitioning from commercial to charity leadership
17:45 – Building teams and strategy in a post-COVID world
23:53 – The significance of Myeloma Awareness Week
30:27 – Storytelling in charity work
32:13 – Advice to her younger self
34:07 – Outro

Get involved
Shine a light on myeloma during Myeloma Awareness Week by:

• Learning and sharing the symptoms

• Supporting research and patient care

• Joining the conversation online (#MyelomaAwarenessWeek)

Listen and follow
The Charity Changemakers Podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Follow the show on your favourite platform – and if you enjoy it, please like, share, and leave a review to help us inspire the next generation of changemakers.