Volunteer Matters - Ep 15: John Hughes

Exploring Leadership and Legacy with John Hughes | Volunteer Matters Podcast

Welcome to Volunteer Matters, a podcast coming to you from beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. In this episode, we sit down with John Hughes, the Executive Director of Craigdarroch Castle, a historic house museum with a rich tapestry of stories and a vital role in the community. Join us as we delve into John's journey from a jewelry designer to a nonprofit leader, the significance of the Castle, and the vibrant culture in Victoria’s nonprofit sector. We also discuss the importance of volunteers, leadership philosophies, and the overarching challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit landscape. John’s insights and experiences offer a compelling narrative for anyone interested in community service, leadership, and heritage preservation. Tune in for an enlightening conversation and discover the heart behind the history of Craigdarroch Castle.

00:00 Welcome to Volunteer Matters

01:05 Introducing John Hughes and Craigdarroch Castle

02:10 The History of Craigdarroch Castle

03:59 Craigdarroch Castle Today

09:29 The Role of Volunteers at Craigdarroch Castle

14:16 John Hughes' Journey to Executive Director

20:25 Starting a Journey in Goldsmithing

20:52 Early Influences and High School Experiences

22:16 Transition to Jewelry Design

23:29 Leadership and Business Skills

25:33 Challenges and Rewards of Leadership

27:54 Balancing Work and Personal Life

30:36 Reviving a Passion for Jewelry Making

32:28 The Future of Goldsmithing

35:02 Non-Profit Sector Insights

37:57 The Importance of Volunteering

41:07 Final Thoughts and Conclusion