Basket Case Clubs

Hosted by CPR Group

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113

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-AU

About the show

CPR Group's podcast channel - where we discuss how we've turned basket case clubs into showcase clubs!

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June 4, 2026Episode 11352 min

Ep 113: Smarter Grants with AI - City of Moreton Bay Series

The grant application isn't the hard part. Having the right plans in place for the project is.In this episode, Michael and Steve unpack the key lessons from the recent Grants and AI workshop delivered as part of the City of Moreton Bay Community, Sport and Recreation Training Series.They challenge the common "what grants can we get?" mindset and explain why successful organisations focus on identifying the projects their community actually needs before searching for funding opportunities. From strategic planning and project readiness to stakeholder engagement and evidence gathering, they explore why the best grant applications are built long before the application form opens.They also discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini are changing the grant-writing landscape, sharing practical ways clubs can use them to save time, strengthen applications and reduce their reliance on external grant writers.Because grants don't create great projects. Great projects attract great grants.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vumCw-yhVF8--------This episode is part of our ongoing collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay and continues the post-workshop discussions designed to help clubs better understand their responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls and build stronger, more sustainable facilities for their communities.Got a question you’d like answered in a future episode? Send it through to info@cprgroup.com.au. It might just feature in an upcoming Basket Case Clubs episode!--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

May 22, 2026Episode 11240 min

Ep 112: Breaking Point Mini-Series — Part 1: The Hidden Pressure in Community Sport

In this episode, we kick off our brand-new Breaking Point Mini-Series and we’re starting with a hard truth: from the outside, community sport looks like it’s thriving… but underneath, the pressure is building.Participation is strong. Facilities are full. Everything appears to be on track.But behind the scenes, volunteers are carrying more than ever before.We’re talking about:The growing burden on club volunteersWhy so many committees are stuck in survival modeThe gap between rising expectations and limited capacityAnd the uncomfortable reality that the system itself might be the problemThis isn’t about blaming volunteers, it’s about recognising the pressure they’ve been quietly absorbing for years.Because most clubs don’t collapse with a bang…they simply fade away.This episode sets the foundation for the series ahead, where we’ll unpack what’s really driving this pressure and what needs to change before community sport reaches its true breaking point.Tune in now for a raw and honest look at the hidden realities of grassroots sport and why “just getting by” isn’t going to cut it anymore.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2dwmJPaZpzI--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

May 14, 2026Episode 11158 min

Ep 111: Supercharged Episode - Constitution Confessions: Risks, Rules and Governance Gaps

In this supercharged episode of Basket Case Clubs, we unpack the real-world governance issues hiding inside club constitutions.From outdated rules and confusing membership structures to weak dispute processes and governance gaps, this conversation dives into the common constitutional pitfalls that can quietly create risk for clubs and community organisations.Drawing on practical examples, constitutional “confessions” and insights from almost three decades of working with clubs across Australia, this episode will help you work out whether your constitution is genuinely protecting your organisation… or quietly holding it back.Leading the charge are Steve Connelly and Matt McEwan from CPRG, sharing the red flags, reality checks and practical takeaways every club committee should know.If your constitution hasn’t had a proper look in a while… this one’s worth your time.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nNESk5lxqfA--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

March 27, 2026Episode 11056 min

Ep 110: Building a Modern Student Union - A Conversation with WSUSU

In this episode, we’re doing things a little differently.Instead of breaking down a basket case, we’re going behind the scenes of something built right from the ground up… the brand new Western Sydney University Student Union.Michael is joined by Richard Martino (WSUSU) and CPR Group’s own Nathan Butcher to unpack what it actually takes to design a modern student union - one that reflects busy, diverse students, embraces digital engagement and rethinks traditional governance models.From a 9-person SRC model to grassroots representation, transparent consultation and a structure that balances independence with strong university relationships, this episode dives deep into the decisions, challenges and “oh wow this could fall over” moments that shaped the final outcome.We talk:What a modern student union actually looks likeWhy transparency and trust were non-negotiablesHow to work with your university (without losing your advocacy edge)The messy reality of governance, stakeholder management, and big changeWhy sometimes the journey matters just as much as the destinationThis isn’t your typical Basket Case Clubs episode, but if you’re in the sector, thinking about change or just wondering what the future of student leadership looks like… this one’s a must-listen.Tune in for a deep dive into building something that might just become a beacon model for the sector.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pPAysO60eZc--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

March 19, 2026Episode 10943 min

Ep 109: Rethinking Facility Management - City of Moreton Bay Series

You don’t own your facility, you’re its custodian… and it’s your responsibility to leave it better than you found it for future generations.In this episode, Steve and Michael dive into the often-misunderstood world of facility management for community clubs and not-for-profit organisations, unpacking what clubs really need to know to manage their facilities effectively.Building on the recent Facility Management workshop delivered as part of the City of Moreton Bay Community, Sport and Recreation Training Series, they break down everything from understanding your lease obligations to navigating the different types of maintenance - operational, statutory, preventative and reactive - cutting through the confusion and explaining it all in plain English.Along the way, they explore the mindset shift that underpins it all: thinking like a custodian, not an owner. Because when clubs plan ahead, build sinking funds, maintain assets properly and work in partnership with Council, they set their facilities and their communities up to thrive long into the future.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a36D886RfWc--------This episode is part of our ongoing collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay and continues the post-workshop discussions designed to help clubs better understand their responsibilities, avoid common pitfalls and build stronger, more sustainable facilities for their communities.Got a question you’d like answered in a future episode? Send it through to info@cprgroup.com.au. It might just feature in an upcoming Basket Case Clubs episode!--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

March 16, 2026Episode 10822 min

Ep 108: They Don’t Quit, They Drift Away: The Silent Exit of Volunteers

Most volunteers don’t quit dramatically. They slowly disengage and disappear.It usually starts small. A little less engagement in meetings. Cameras off. Phones out. Then missed meetings. Then fewer messages. Before long, they’re gone and committees are left wondering what happened.In this episode of Basket Case Clubs, Michael and Steve explore the subtle warning signs committees often miss before a volunteer drifts away. From reduced participation in meetings to missed messages and quiet withdrawal, these early signals are easy to overlook, but they can make the difference between losing a volunteer and keeping one.The discussion also highlights an important leadership lesson: it’s not just the president’s responsibility to notice when someone is struggling. Every committee member has the opportunity to step up, check in and ask a simple but powerful question:“How are things with you?”If you’re part of a club committee and want to retain good volunteers instead of watching them quietly disappear, this episode will help you recognise the warning signs early and take action before they drift away.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8-6ods7B83o--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

March 9, 2026Episode 10730 min

Ep 107: The Role of the Vice President (And Why it Matters)

In this episode of Basket Case Clubs, the Basket Case Bros dive into one of the most misunderstood roles in club governance... the Vice President.Ask five committee members what the Vice President actually does and you’ll probably get five different answers. For many clubs, the role has become a legacy position with no clear purpose, leaving volunteers feeling undervalued or stuck picking up everyone else’s leftover jobs.In this episode, you'll learn:Why some clubs are removing the Vice President role entirelyThe hidden cost of volunteers sitting in meetings without a clear purposeHow unclear roles lead to burnout and poor governanceA simple two-step job description that can make the Vice President role valuable againIf your club has ever wondered what the Vice President is supposed to be doing, or whether you even need one, this episode will give you practical ideas to clarify roles and strengthen your committee.Tune in for another conversation about governance, leadership and making volunteer committees work better.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mVYIc5waAOc--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

January 28, 2026Episode 10656 min

Ep 106: Supercharged Episode - How Strategic Planning Sets You Up for Long-Term Success

In this supercharged episode of Basket Case Clubs, we’re sharing the full recording of one of our most popular webinars, where we break down strategic planning that actually works for clubs.Strategic planning isn’t about ticking a box, chasing grants or producing a glossy document that gathers dust. Done properly, it’s your organisation’s roadmap, helping committees stop firefighting the urgent stuff and start focusing on what really matters for long-term success.In this episode, we break down:What strategic planning really is (and what it definitely isn’t)Why “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is one of the most dangerous mindsets for clubsHow to move from good intentions to clear, achievable goalsThe difference between doable, stretch and truly game-changing goalsWhy clarity around your why matters more than a wordy mission statementHow to turn big-picture thinking into practical action your committee can actually followWhether your club has never had a strategic plan, your current one has expired or you’re ready to take things from good to great, this episode will help you think differently about planning. If you’re serious about building a sustainable, future-ready club or community organisation, this is one episode you don’t want to skip.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aPg-cAmQRyE--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

January 19, 2026Episode 10557 min

Ep 105: Supercharged Episode - Scaling Your Club for Real Success

In this supercharged Basket Case Clubs episode, we’re bringing you the full replay of one of our popular 2025 webinars, all about scaling your club and maximising the use of your facilities. If you’ve ever felt stuck between ‘just surviving’ and actually thriving, this one’s for you.Michael breaks down what growth really looks like for community clubs and not-for-profits, and spoiler alert, it’s not just about chasing more members. From understanding the different stages of club growth, to knowing when systems, people and paid support become critical, this session is packed with practical insights you can actually use.You’ll hear:Why not-for-profit doesn’t mean no profit, and why profit is where growth livesThe four (plus one) stages of club growth and how to spot where your club really sitsHow to scale sustainably without burning out volunteersSmart ways to unlock value from your facilities and multi-use spacesSimple financial levers that can dramatically improve your club’s capacity without major riskThis is the kind of episode you’ll want to pause, rewind and take notes on, because it goes beyond theory and into real-world club decision-making.If you’re serious about turning your club into a showcase club, this webinar-turned-podcast is just what you need.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DmzEm_EVCfc--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.

January 13, 2026Episode 10455 min

Ep 104: Supercharged Episode - How to Make Multi-Use Facilities Work for Everyone

Multi-use facilities sound great on paper… but in the real world? They can turn into absolute basket cases if they’re not set up and managed properly.In this supercharged webinar episode, we’re bringing you a recording from one of our sessions in 2025 on maximising multi-use facilities, and more importantly, avoiding the conflicts, politics and power struggles that so often come with them.We dig into why multi-use facilities are necessary, where they most commonly go wrong and what councils, clubs and facility managers can do to make them work in practice. From design mistakes and maintenance blow-outs, to governance gaps, unclear tenure and full-blown turf wars (yes, literally), this episode pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening on shared grounds.You’ll hear practical frameworks for:Setting facilities up right from the startCreating clear rules, policies and objective standardsManaging competing interests without burning relationshipsHandling conflict when sharing arrangements boil overMoving from “win-lose” standoffs to solutions that actually stickIf you’re involved in community sport, council facilities or shared precincts, this episode is packed with real-world lessons, hard truths and tools you can put straight into action.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J2reYKnxXBs--------Need a constitution check-up? Make sure yours is working for you, not against you. Submit your constitution for a free assessment by CPR Group's expert team here: www.cprgroup.com.au/constitutionassessment--------🥇 If you'd like a chance to win some fantastic Basket Case Clubs merchandise, simply leave us a review on the Apple Podcasts app or your preferred podcast platform.If you're seeking additional support, then reach out to us. We're eager to share the wealth of knowledge we've accumulated over the years!Sign up to our newsletter to stay in the know!Stay in the know about our other upcoming FREE webinars!Check out our previous episodes!Follow us on InstagramFollow Michael on InstagramAdd Michael on LinkedInAdd Steve on LinkedInAdd CPR Group on LinkedInFind us on FacebookFind Michael on FacebookContact Us -------- Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for entertainment and information purposes only. The information provided is correct at the time of recording but may not reflect the latest developments. This podcast does not constitute legal, financial or other advice and should not replace the guidance of professional advisors. Always seek qualified professional advice.