What if leadership was less about authority and more about connection?Imagine a young boy in rural Zimbabwe, discovering the world through books borrowed from a modest village library. That boy is Alfred Chidembo, whose love for stories sparked a journey from his village to Australia, where he now serves in the Australian Public Service and leads a literacy charity, Aussie Books for Zim.In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke explores how the Ubuntu philosophy—“I am because we are”—has guided Alfred’s life and work. Alfred shares how empathy, storytelling, and genuine connection are at the heart of his mission. He also discusses how these values can enhance communication in government by fostering trust, understanding, and community engagement. It’s a heartfelt look at how empathy, flexibility, and the stories we tell can create lasting change. This episode is for anyone who believes that by lifting others, we all rise together.Discussed in this episode:Ubuntu philosophy and leadership through empathyPower of storytelling in connectionFounding Aussie Books for Zim charityBuilding relationships in public serviceOvercoming challenges with resilienceEnhancing government communication with trust Show notes:Aussie Books for ZimUbuntu | Alfred ChidemboUbuntu Philosphy | The CollectorLiteracy: the greatest treasure of all |TEDx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As cities around the world grapple with a wave of disinformation, how can they fight back and restore public trust? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Ika Trijsburg, leader of the Disinformation in the City project, to tackle this urgent question. Ika unveils the Global Response Playbook, a powerful toolkit designed to help cities counter false information at a local level. She walks us through its three-phase approach—pre-empting, pre-bunking, and debunking—and shows how cities can become hubs of trust and resilience.Drawing on many years of experience in city diplomacy and local government, Ika shares stories and insights on why disinformation impacts every layer of city life, from elected officials to public service teams. With her unique perspective, Ika emphasises the power of collaboration and the critical role cities play in protecting their communities. Full of actionable insights and real optimism, this episode is a must-listen for government communicators and public sector leaders who are ready to step up in the fight against disinformation.Discussed in this episode:How disinformation challenges local governments and impacts public trust.A three-phase strategy to tackle disinformation.Why cities are well-positioned to address disinformation where people experience policy firsthand.The importance of community-focused strategies to build trust and counter disinformation.Partnerships within and beyond government strengthen resilience to disinformation.How cities worldwide can share strategies and amplify impact through diplomatic collaboration.Show notes:-             Disinformation in the City Response Playbook | University of Melbourne-             Disinformation in the City Project | University of Melbourne-             Melbourne Centre for Cities | University of Melbourne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when disaster strikes?In this second-part episode of the GovComms Podcast, crisis communication expert Michael Player shares his experiences managing some of New Zealand’s most significant crises, including the Rena oil spill and Pike River mining disaster. Michael gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how he led teams through media storms, community unrest, and logistical challenges in the heart of chaos.Michael reveals the strategies that helped him succeed under pressure—building strong communication teams, adapting plans in real time, and working closely with local communities. His stories showcase the power of collaboration and the human side of crisis management.As crises become more common, how can we be better prepared? Michael discusses the need for frequent training and the importance of involving communities in recovery efforts. Whether you're in government communication or just curious, this episode offers key insights into managing chaos and building trust when it matters most.Discussed in this episode:·     Managing communication during disasters·     Assembling strong, adaptable crisis teams.·     Community involvement in disaster recovery efforts.·     Frequent tabletop exercises for crisis prep.·     Balancing media demands and operational focus.·     Collaborating across government and local agencies. Show notes:-             Tragedy at Pike River Mine – Rebecca Macfie-             The Rena grounding | NZ GOV-             Pike River | NZ GOV Royal Commission-             Exercise and Preparedness Tools | FEMA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to navigate a decades-long career in government communications while navigating ethics, changing media landscapes, and building lasting influence?In this special two-part episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Michael Player, a communications veteran with nearly five decades experience. From his very first job to his long stint with NZ Police, Michael shares the highs and lows of working in public sector communications.Join us as Michael reflects on the ethical backbone of the profession, revealing how great communicators must speak truth to power, even when it's uncomfortable. Michael’s journey is full of wisdom for both introverts and extroverts alike, proving that in a people-first profession, it’s the quiet listeners who often make the biggest impact.This episode is packed with insights on how to navigate the shifting tides of today’s media landscape, where misinformation abounds, and how to maintain influence in an ever-evolving field. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Michael’s career lessons on leadership, ethics, and crisis management will inspire you to step up, take initiative, and become a true communications leader.Discussed in this episode:·     Importance of initiative and building rapport·     Ethical responsibility and speaking truth to power·     The three A’s: accessibility, affordability, ability·     Being a good listener·     The evolving media landscape and digital platforms·     Career advice: patience and continuous learning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can digital communications spark real-world change and drive social impact? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke speaks with Nicholas Bruneau, a global leader in digital advocacy and purpose-led marketing. Together, they explore how Nicholas’ AGILE Framework for social impact communications inspires organisations to leverage digital tools, tell compelling stories, and mobilise communities. Through real-world examples like the “Raise Your Hand” campaign, which raised over $4 billion for global education, Nicholas reveals how digital strategies can inspire lasting movements and revolutionise public sector communications.Discussed in this episode:·     Digital communications for social impact through advocacy.·     AGILE Framework empowering public sector organisations.·     "Raise Your Hand" campaign·     Storytelling and digital tools to drive community engagement·     Post-pandemic shifts and growing risk aversion in digital strategy·     Data-driven strategies for greater communication impact Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if small behavioural tweaks could transform government policies and change society for the better?In this exciting episode of GovComms, David Pembroke chats with Sharon Rosenrauch, Principal Behavioural Scientist at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water. They uncover the powerful impact of behavioural science in the public sector, diving into how these insights can tackle misinformation, drive lasting change, and strengthen collaboration between scientists and communicators. Plus, she introduces game-changing tools like the EAST framework that are helping government departments revolutionise their strategies for more effective communication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, Adrian Brown, Executive Director of the Centre for Public Impact, explores the evolving role of government in society and the importance of public legitimacy, trust, and resilience. Adrian discusses how governments can adapt to crises like COVID-19 by becoming more agile and citizen-centered, and highlights the role of innovation in public administration. Adrian also shares strategies for improving government-citizen communication, the significance of cross-sector collaboration, and the ethical considerations necessary for successful government innovation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke interviews Alison Senti, a strategic communications professional with a career spanning both public and private sectors. Alison shares her journey from hotel management and legal marketing to consulting at KPMG, and various positions within government departments. Alison outlines the role of government communicators during major events, drawing on her experiences with the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit.This episode also explores the importance of social cohesion, evaluation, and accountability in government communication. Alison shares insights on the future of the public sector and reflects on the evolving landscape of government communication and the vital role it plays in supporting public trust and policy implementation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke interviews Bob Jensen, a leading expert in crisis communication with over four decades of experience in emergency and disaster risk management. The episode dives into Jensen's extensive career, including his roles in the US Air Force, the State Department, and FEMA, as well as his work with international organizations like the World Bank. Jensen shares insights from his career, emphasizing the importance of having robust systems in place for effective crisis communication and the need for regular training and exercises to ensure preparedness.Jensen discusses the critical role of crisis communication in managing public perception, particularly in the face of disinformation. He introduces the concept of pre-bunking, where organisations anticipate and address potential disinformation before it spreads, and highlights the increasing use of AI by malicious actors to create deepfakes and spread false narratives. Jensen stresses the importance of understanding and countering these tactics, using technology to detect manipulated content, and developing clear, proactive communication strategies.The conversation also touches on the challenges of communicating the impacts of climate change and the necessity of making such information relatable and understandable for the public. Jensen emphasises the importance of empathy and respect in communication, particularly when addressing widespread issues like climate change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke sits down with Stanley Henry, founder and CEO of The Attention Seeker, a New Zealand-based, New York-inspired advertising agency. Stanley shares his fascinating journey from growing up in South Auckland to establishing a successful career in hospitality, which eventually led him to start his own agency. He emphasises the importance of understanding and engaging with audiences by creating content that resonates with them rather than focusing solely on the message the speaker wants to convey.Stanley elaborates on how The Attention Seeker transitioned from leveraging LinkedIn for personal branding to becoming a full-service agency offering content creation across multiple platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. He details their iterative content production process, which involves constant testing and refining based on performance data to ensure effective communication. Stanley also discusses the diverse range of clients they serve, from small businesses to large corporations, and the consistent onboarding process that ensures a deep understanding of each client's needs.Throughout the conversation, Stanley provides valuable insights for government communicators, stressing the need to focus on what their audience wants to hear and to integrate their messages into existing narratives. He cites the example of Jacinda Ardern's social media strategy to illustrate how effectively listening to and engaging with the audience can lead to successful communication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke speaks with Dr. Nathan Borgford-Parnell, the science lead at the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) Secretariat. Dr. Borgford-Parnell provides an in-depth look at the CCAC's mission to mitigate short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), such as methane, black carbon, hydrofluorocarbons, and tropospheric ozone. He emphasises the coalition's efforts to integrate climate and air pollution policies to achieve multiple benefits, including improved public health, labor rights, and population resiliency. The discussion highlights the scientific understanding of SLCPs, their sources, and the immediate and long-term advantages of reducing emissions.The conversation dives into the challenges of communicating the complexities of climate change and the importance of presenting climate actions as delivering multiple benefits to various communities. Dr. Borgford-Parnell critiques the limitations of using CO2 equivalents as a metric for all greenhouse gases, advocating for a more nuanced approach to treating each pollutant as unique. He provides real-world examples of how different pollutants interact with ecosystems and human health, illustrating the need for tailored communication and policy development.Dr. Borgford-Parnell also addresses the impact of misinformation and disinformation on climate action, offering strategies to combat these challenges by focusing on the multiple benefits and engaging diverse constituencies. He shares his optimism about the potential to achieve climate goals through existing technologies and policies, despite the current trajectory of global emissions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke welcomes back Jennifer Muir, a communication professional with over 25 years of experience in the not-for-profit, government, social impact, and civil society sectors.Jennifer, who has recently been appointed to the Global Alliance board for Public Relations and Communication Management, shares insights into the Global Alliance's mission and her role in leading international collaborations and community connections across the Asia-Pacific region. Her discussion emphasises the rapid growth of the communication profession in Asia and the need for aligning professional standards globally.The conversation also discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the communications field. Jennifer highlights the importance of a human-centered approach to AI, urging communication professionals to understand and responsibly use AI tools. She discusses the slower adoption of AI in government due to regulatory and privacy concerns, contrasting it with the faster-paced technology advancements in the private sector.Jennifer also shares information about the upcoming World PR Conference (WPRF) in Bali in November 2024, a great opportunity for communicators for professional growth and networking opportunities. More information about this conference can be found at: https://www.globalalliancepr.org/wprfDiscussed in this episode:Professional capability frameworks and their alignment in the ASEAN region.Importance of trust and transparency in corporate and government communications.Role of the Public Relations Institute of Australia and its recent name change.The benefits of attending international communication conferences for professional development.Show notes:Jennifer Muir | LinkedInWorld Public Relations Forum | Global Alliance PR Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke interviews Tim Gavel, a veteran sports broadcaster who has transitioned into the role of Media Director at Sport Integrity Australia, an Australian Government agency aimed at promoting safe and fair sports.Tim shares insights from his extensive career in media and broadcasting, detailing his journey from a disc jockey in Western Queensland to a highly respected commentator in Canberra. The discussion highlights his relentless work ethic and the skills he developed over decades, which he now applies to his current role in the public service.Tim provides an in-depth look at the multifaceted issues managed by Sport Integrity Australia, including anti-doping, sexual abuse, integrity in sports betting, and racial abuse. He discusses the dynamic leadership of David Sharpe, the CEO of Sport Integrity Australia, and the challenges of building a robust framework for the organisation on the go. Tim elaborates on his daily routine, which involves early morning media analysis and maintaining strong relationships with journalists to ensure transparency and accurate reporting.The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, such as the Minister’s office and national sports organisations. Discussed in this episode:Tim’s strategy for handling media inquiries and building trust with journalists.The role of the National Integrity Framework in Australian sports.The evolution of Sport Integrity Australia’s communication strategies.Innovative educational initiatives for athletes using virtual reality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined by Strath Gordon, Head of Public Affairs and Communications at the Australian Olympic Committee.With the 2024 Paris Olympics starting in July, Strath shares insights into the planning involved in preparing for the Olympic games, including the introduction of 460 Australian athletes to the public and the coordination required to manage media coverage for the event. He emphasises the importance of storytelling in sports communication, and discusses the AOC’s plans for effective on-ground media communication in Paris to ensure all athletes receive appropriate coverage and support.Reflecting on the Tokyo Olympics, Strath highlights the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, from the postponement of the games to maintaining constant communication with athletes to keep their spirits high. He touches on the lessons learned during this period, such as the critical role of effective communication and the necessity of leveraging technology to stay connected with stakeholders.Strath outlines how the AOC adapts to the rise of streaming services and digital media by providing content that enhances the viewing experience across various platforms. Additionally, the conversation highlights the AOC's community engagement efforts, such as the Olympics Unleashed Program, which aims to inspire young Australians by connecting them with Olympians. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined by Mardi Stewart, the Branch Manager of Campaigns and Strategic Communication at the Department of Social Services.As a leader with extensive experience in strategic communication and public campaigns, Mardi shares insights on creating impactful and award-winning campaigns. From the foundational aspects of embracing a learning mindset to the intricacies of campaign management, she highlights the multifaceted approach required to navigate and excel in government communications.Leadership in public communication not only involves the strategic dissemination of information but also encompasses fostering resilience and passion among communication professionals. Mardi emphasises the importance of loving what you do, and that passion fuels perseverance and success in any professional endeavor.Mardi also explores the role of public communication campaigns in addressing societal issues and enhancing community well-being. She outlines the structured processes behind successful campaigns, from initial research to creative development and rigorous evaluation.Discussed in this episode:Mardi Stewart's journey and passion in public sector communications.Key campaigns like "Stop it at the Start" and community awareness initiatives.Importance of mentorship and professional networks in communications.Challenges and shifts in media landscapes impacting government communication. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms, we continue our conversation with Bevan Hannan, General Manager of the Communications Division at Services Australia.Bevan delves into the complexities of government communication, drawing on his extensive experience to explore how crises like the Bali bombings have shaped public narratives and the role of media in managing these narratives.Bevan reflects on the human aspects of communications and shares lessons learned from coordinating the government's response and supporting affected families. He explains how he strategically used media to maintain control over the public discourse and ensure sensitive handling of the aftermath.The conversation also ventures into the future of communication in public service, particularly the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Bevan discusses the potential for AI to enhance service delivery and improve the accessibility and efficiency of government communications.The episode takes a reflective turn as he addresses the Robodebt scandal, considering its impact on public trust and the essential role of integrity in government communications.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, we are joined by Bevan Hannan, General Manager of the Communications Division at Services Australia.Bevan shares insights into the nuances of crisis communication during the COVID-19 pandemic, and outlines the strategies and technologies employed by Services Australia to manage public information needs effectively.Bevan also discusses the challenges and strategies of maintaining team dynamics in a remote and hybrid work settings, and emphasises the importance of a supportive and collaborative culture. He highlights how his team adapted to ensure productivity and engagement despite the distance.Furthermore, Bevan explores the significant role of government spokespeople in delivering complex information to the public. He stresses the importance of trusted, non-political figures in building public trust and ensuring clear communication from the government.Discussed in this episode:Impact of mentorship and networking in Bevan's early career development.Bevan's lessons from transitioning from sports journalism to the public service.Balancing between in-person and remote work for team effectiveness.Evolution of government communication practices pre and post-COVID.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined once again by Stephanie Speck, who is now the Head of Communications for the Green Climate Fund, for a conversation focusing on effective climate change communication.With extensive experience in public sector communication globally, Stephanie shares insights into empowering climate-impacted communities to tell their authentic stories through "Story Sovereignty." This approach humanises climate change and grounds narratives in real-life experiences.Stephanie also delves into the strategic evolution of the Green Climate Fund's communication, moving from output-focused tactics to strategies that prioritise reputation, return on investment, and relationship building, aiming to enhance global impact and drive effective climate action.The conversation explores the challenge of misinformation in climate discourse, with Stephanie highlighting strategies to counter false narratives and the emphasising the importance of accurate communication in building trust and consensus on climate issues.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on GovComms we are joined by Andrea Garcia, a communication professional with over 15 years’ experience working for various organisations.Andrea shares her stories working in UNICEF, Weber Shandwick and the New York State Court System in the United States and the Canberra Light Rail project, Museum of Australian Democracy (MOAD), and the Canberra Institute of Technology in Canberra, Australia.Discussed in this episode:Andrea's work across various sectors, including government, non-profit, and private sectors.The importance and strategies of stakeholder engagement and community consultationThe role of integrated marketing communications in effectively disseminating information and engaging with diverse audiences.The transition from working in high-profile, private sector roles to more community-focused, public sector positions.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms Podcast, we are joined by Ruth Dewsbury, a communication strategist with more than 20 years’ experience in government communications in the Australian federal government. Her most recent role was as a Senior Director of Communications at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.Along with host David Pembroke, Ruth reflects on the significant changes in the communication landscape, particularly the shift from traditional methods like typewriters and carbon paper to the digital revolution, which introduced new communication channels and tools, and the impact of the 24-hour news cycle.“Things have changed massively in the whole communications land... Especially with the digital revolution.” – Ruth DewsburyRuth emphasises the need for clear communication objectives by ‘going back to the basics’, and clear outcomes to effectively determine target audiences, messages, and channels.“While there have been massive changes, a lot hasn't changed like the general approach to communications, strategic communications in its entirety hasn't changed, and in some ways, I think there's a real need to get back to basics." – Ruth DewsburyRuth also talks about the unique challenges of communicating about climate change, including dealing with disinformation, engaging diverse audiences, and the importance of addressing climate anxiety, especially among young people.“Disinformation has just gone wild, and different groups in the community are responding in different ways. There's huge climate anxiety with young people, in particular, something like 67% of young people think." – Ruth DewsburyTune in to gain insights into gathering authentic stories to make government communications more relatable and effective, and more.Show notes:Ruth Dewsbury | LinkedInFollow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GovComms Podcast is back with brand new episodes.Our first episode of the season welcomes back Alex Aiken, the Executive Director for Government Communications in the UK, who was our very first guest when the podcast debuted in 2015 as the 'InTransition Podcast'. The landscape of government communication has evolved since then, and this episode dives into the latest developments.Host David Pembroke and Alex Aiken explore the collaborative efforts between the UK Government Communication Service (GCS) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Alex sheds light on the OECD's role in auditing and evaluating the UK's government communication practices, sharing insights into the process.“One of the things that the OECD asked us to do was submit UK Government Communications to a what they call a country scan. What they really mean is an audit of UK Government Communications and the report we published next month early in February. Now that takes a degree of courage.” – Alex AikenThe episode also delves into the UK Government's communication response to the war in Ukraine.“When it was inevitable that the Russians were set to invade then we set up what we call the Government Information Cell. This was to bring together all the specialists that you need to deliver modern high volume communications into one place so we could have a fast, coordinated, and effective UK Government Communications response.” – Alex AikenIn a world where disinformation is rampant and synthetic media is an emerging threat, Alex emphasises the importance of compelling storytelling.“I think that the absolutely central point is unless you can tell your story brilliantly, you will fall victim to disinformation. On the 24th of February 2022, I listened to Boris Johnson thinking through the challenges we faced... 'Putin must fail.' That is our policy. Putin must fail." And that in a sense is a story that we told then and a story we're telling now"​ – Alex AikenFurthermore, Alex discusses the potential of artificial intelligence, and how the UK government seeks to use it as a ‘force for good’.“The London Summit recently had a whole range of countries around the world looking at the threats but also the opportunities. As the Government Communication Service, we are seeking to bring together all the plans, the strategies, the knowledge that we have and create a large language model where we can plug all that in" – Alex AikenTune in to gain insights into the UK Government’s strategic communication frameworks, such as OASIS and PITCH, and much more.Discussed in this episode:The evolving role of government communication.Impact of technology and the challenge of mis- and disinformation.OECD's involvement in government communication.UK Government’s strategic frameworks: OASIS and PITCH.The importance of international collaboration.Show notes:Guide to campaign planning: OASIS | Government Communication ServiceLaunch of PITCH: a strategic communication tool | Government Communication ServiceFollow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's episode marks the final episode of Govcomms 'From the Vault'. In this episode, host and CEO of contentgroup, David Pembroke, revisits his conversation with Tim Price, the Acting Director of Strategic Communications and Content at the Australian Federal Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.David begins by exploring where Tim's career began - creating massively successful fan websites for Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff. Tim explains"when I look back on my career, I was like, 'Well, that's really where it all started'. Back then, there was no such thing as a digital career. There was no such thing as a career in social media. So I travelled the wave of the constantly changing nature of digital and social media and into government as well."The pair discuss the challenges of a new narrowcast world and the importance of building a sense of community no matter the type of communications you are executing. On top of this, the one key takeaway from this episode is the importance of building connections. Tim explains that making connections with individuals throughout your organisation can greatly benefit you when it comes to having a seat at the table from the get-go.Stay tuned for a brand-new Govcomms episode coming Wednesday 7th February. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on GovComms 'From the Vault,' we revisit our conversation with a special guest, the CEO of the Open Government Partnership, Sanjay Pradhan.Sanjay joined OGP in May 2016. Prior to joining OGP, he served as the Vice President for Leadership, Learning, and Innovation at the World Bank, as well as the Vice President of the World Bank Institute, and as the Director for Governance.David Pembroke, CEO and Founder of contentgroup, discusses with Sanjay the mission of OGP and its role in addressing governance challenges faced by ordinary citizens. Using three examples from Nigeria, Ukraine, and Costa Rica, Sanjay illustrates the impact of OGP in the real world. The pair explore the true effect OGP has in making governments more transparent, participatory, inclusive, and accountable."When you think of democracy, you think of the ballot box, citizens cast their vote, but all these problems existed beyond the vote. They continue to not get these services. So OGP is a way to indeed focus on the ballot box, but also beyond the ballot box empowering citizens to shape and oversee their government every year, every day, not just once in a few years when we cast our precious vote. "They also delve into how digital technology has influenced the transparency of governments and how OGP can counter the rise of authoritarianism by tackling both domestic and external drivers.Topics discussed in this episode include:Building citizens' trustInclusion of marginalized groupsTaking democracy beyond the ballot box. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Govcomms 'From the Vault', we revisit our conversation with Osama Saeed Bhutta, who is currently the Director of Communications, Policy & Campaigns at Shelter UK. At the time of this conversation, he was the Director of Communications at Amnesty International.Osama started out as a volunteer organiser and press officer for the Stop the War movement in the UK, which later landed him a position with the Scottish National Party as a media and research officer.Fast forward a decade and a remarkable career with news organisation Al Jazeera. His role at Amnesty International was to unite and mobilise the world against ever worsening humanitarian crises, widening gaps in wealth, education and equality and more refugees than ever before in the history of the world. Along with host David Pembroke, Osama discussed the intersection of public relations and government communications, exploring how effective communication strategies can help build trust, credibility, and support for government initiatives.“When you’re trying to get into people’s hearts, that kind of fact-based approach, which has historically been the approach of NGOs, is less successful, and at the moment, we are being eaten for breakfast as a movement.”Discussed in this episode:When images work against you and disempower your audienceThe problem with highlighting the problemThe need for positive messaging in the harshest timesThe importance of publicising the historicalThe role of the internet in uniting people and the need for people to get out from behind their keyboards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you interested in public health advocacy?This week on Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our conversation with Clare and Alice Collins, a mother-daughter duo who run Insight Communications- a multi-award winning agency specialising in communication management for cause, culture, community and health organisations.We highlight the complexities surrounding asbestos awareness, including the challenges and strategies involved in educating the public about this often-overlooked health hazard. Clare and Alice discuss innovative approaches to public engagement and awareness campaigns, highlighting the importance of effective messaging in public health initiatives.As they navigate through their journey in the public health sector, Clare and Alice offer valuable lessons learned from their extensive work in raising awareness about asbestos. Through their case study on asbestos awareness, they discuss the significance of community involvement and government action in tackling such public health challenges.Discussed in this episode:Utilising a holistic approach in communication through multiple channels.Targeting influential figures for effective public health awareness.Forming key stakeholder partnerships for efficient information distribution.Employing detailed strategic planning for campaign objectives.Applying a 'day in the life' technique for audience engagement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russell Grossman wears many hats; he was, and still is the Director of Communications at the Office of Rail and Road, an Executive Committee member and adviser to the BoardIn this episode from the archives, Russell Grossman and David Pembroke discuss the best practices in government communication, and the establishment of the Government Communications Services (GCS) in the UK.We hear about Russell’s experience as Director of Group Communications at the UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, as well as International Chair of the IABC and Director of Engage for Success.Discussed in this episode:Maximising communications budgetsUsing a project management approach to reform communicationsCreating long-term marketing strategiesStrong bold leadership and sharp project managementFuture directions and innovations within the GCS. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our podcast with the Founder & Managing Director of Propel, Roger Christie. This podcast in particular investigates the role of social media and how government communicators can use social media effectively.Founder and CEO of contentgroup, David Pembroke, asks Roger tips to start conversations in organisations that are notoriously risk-averse when providing responses quickly to events online. Roger then stresses the importance of not trying to sell social media, but rather see social media as a meeting point.Continuing the conversation, Roger talks about the importance of understanding the environment in which your organisation is operating to avoid mistakes in a public and permanent forum. In Roger’s words, “Don’t build a fort in a battle”.Discussed in this episode:How to position social media as a way to overcome barriersThe P-L-A-N FrameworkRole of Individual vs the organisation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our conversation with Ian Cleary, Founder of the acclaimed social media training business and blog, RazorSocial. He joins host David Pembroke remotely from Dublin, Ireland.With over 15 years in the software industry, Ian shares his technical expertise in utilising various applications to boost your content marketing efforts. Ian's RazorSocial, a global leader in providing expert advice on social media tools, has been a game-changer in the digital marketing industry. Tune in as Ian unveils the essence of selecting the right tools to enhance your social media marketing and blogging, encapsulating insights from his venture, the RazorSocial Training Academy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As communicators, we should all know by now that internal communication is the beating heart of any healthy organisation. Because without it, everything falls apart. And though that may sound scary there are plenty of tools available to introduce smooth internal communication to your department or agency.In this week's Govcomms 'From the Vault', we look back at our 2018 conversation with Rita Zonius, a communication strategist and consultant based in Australia, where we discussed the deployment of enterprise social media, or large-scale internal communication.Rita shares insights on various topics related to communication, such as the importance of storytelling, the impact of technology on communication, and the role of leaders in fostering effective communication within their organisations.With a rich career in the bank sector, Rita was the Head of Internal Communication for ANZ for more than a decade. One of her biggest achievements was the implementation of an enterprise social network to connect over 60,000 ANZ employees around the world. After leaving ANZ in late-2017, Rita has become a leading consultant in the field and recognised internationally for her work in enterprise social networking. Under the alias The Enterprise Social Engineer she now works with brands around the world assisting them with all their internal comms needs.Discussed in this episode:What is enterprise social networking and why is important?The increased efficiency from implementing internal social networksMeasuring risks and challenges in internal communicationTraining your team in teamwork, not technologyPerfecting internal content, creating an internal narrative Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our insightful conversation with Howard Parry-Husbands, CEO and Founder of Pollinate, one of Australia’s consulting and market research leaders in the world of branding, innovation and communications. The conversation explores how systems thinking can be used to solve complex problems.Howard emphasises that everything is interconnected, suggesting that solving one problem might unintentionally cause another. Using the Murray Darling Basin as a case study, he explains how humans often struggle with understanding complexity and instead rely on cause and effect. To bridge this gap, Howard champions the use of metaphors, visuals, and storytelling to communicate complex messages to the public.Discussed in this episode:Definition of systems thinking, and how it can be used by communications professionals.The benefits of understanding systems thinking from a policy perspective.Comparing the management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, New Zealand, and the US.The drawbacks of a single-message strategy in government communications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit a conversation between our host David Pembroke and Russell Sparkman, who is one of the pioneers of global content marketing and a believer in its inevitability. As the Co-founder of FusionSpark Media, Inc., Russell brings more than two decades of expertise to the table, specifically focusing on how content marketing can solve complex challenges in government and non-profit sectors.The conversation explored the multifaceted benefits of content marketing for public and non-profit organisations. Russell discussed how strategically crafted content can not only engage but also empower citizens.Established in 1999, FusionSpark Media boasts a diverse portfolio of content initiatives, specialisng in sectors such as environmental conservation, public health, and sustainability. With a global presence through offices in the United States and Japan, FusionSpark Media collaborates with a dynamic network of professionals skilled in marketing, PR, digital media, and journalism.Russell’s versatile role in these impactful projects extends from new business development to content strategy, and even to hands-on content creation through photography and videography. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our insightful conversation with Claire Madden, author of ‘Hello Gen Z: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials’ and social researcher on generational engagement. Along with David Pembroke, Claire explores the technological cultural shift and what communicators can learn from these leaders of tomorrow though still young today.By 2030, it's projected that Gen Z will make up one-third of the Australian workforce, setting the stage for an evolution in the way we communicate and work. This conversation explored the essential role of social media in shaping this generation's worldview and explore why it's crucial for governmental bodies and the public sector to harness their unique skill sets.Discussed in this episode:Generational change and how Gen Z broke the mouldThe material and technological impact on Gen ZWhat technology has done to how people learn, research and communicateWays government and the public sector can utilise the skills and abilities of Gen ZGen Z are born knowing the rules of social media engagementAdvice to effectively communicate and talk with Gen Z Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Govcomms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke is joined once again by the Founding Director of Social Marketing @ Griffith, Professor Sharyn Rundle-Thiele.Joining us from Queensland, Sharyn is an expert in all things social marketing. Drawing from her background in commercial marketing, her current research focuses on applying marketing to benefit both people and the planet. She has worked on numerous social marketing projects that help tackle issues such as marine pollution in Indonesia, unhealthy eating habits of military personnel, domestic pet and wildlife interactions and teen drinking habits.In this conversation, we revisit the concept of ‘social marketing’ and uncover the positive impact it can create. Sharyn also highlights some of her recent work that involved mitigating koala threat from dogs and raising awareness of the importance of cleaning leaves in gutters.We conclude the episode with details about the Change 2023 conference hosted by Social Marketing @ Griffith, which will take place on the 19th and 20th of October, with options to attend either in-person or online. This conference delves into the latest insights and best practices for achieving measurable change that benefits people, communities, and the planet. Govcomms listeners are eligible for a 10% discount on their tickets using the code CONTENTGROUP10. Reserve your spot today by visiting their website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/griffith-business-school/social-marketing-griffith/change-conference Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit a conversation between our host David Pembroke and Amanda Dennett, a former Head of Digital Experience at the Australian War Memorial, who is now the Senior Manager at creativeXpeople, Synergy Group. Amanda is an experienced communication professional, specialising in digital communication strategy, crisis communication, and media issues management.The Australian Government is increasingly harnessing digital platforms to create engaging and informative content. This conversation delves into the findings of Amanda’s research on the way the Australian Government is using social media. Amanda highlights industry success stories and the future direction of online communications.Discussed in this episode:How to measure a social media strategyGetting permission from senior leaders to deliver communication strategiesWhere has social media been used successfully in the public sector?The key skills of a communicatorCreating credible and consistent information for online platforms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our insightful conversation with Shannah Hayley, which took place at the Content Marketing World 2016 conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Shannah is the Director of Communications and Community Outreach for the city of Plano, Texas, with responsibilities in strategic planning for all aspects of the city’s communications, marketing and community outreach.Along with David Pembroke, she discusses how local governments can capitalise on unfavorable incidents and utilise content marketing to enhance social awareness for their communities. Shannah shares her successful strategy which turned a disparaging comment from the reality TV show "Real Housewives of Dallas" into a powerful marketing tool.When a cast member compared Plano to an uncomfortable conversation, Shannah seized the opportunity to transform it into a clever marketing campaign. She embraced the phrase "It's a little Plano in here" and turned it into a meme of civic pride, effectively raising awareness for the city through content marketing. “It started a whole campaign of ‘It's a little Plano in here,’ and that was a saying that popped up in our community…” - Shannah Hayley.By capitalising on unfavorable incidents and utilising content marketing, Shannah demonstrated how local governments can increase social awareness and turn challenging situations into positive exposure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms ‘From the Vault’, we revisit our insightful conversation with Nicole Thomson-Pride. Nicole is a professional speechwriter and communication coach with experience working across the Australian government, private sector and not-for-profit organisations. Her previous workplaces include the New South Wales Government, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, and Department of Defence.Nicole's passion for communication emerged at a young age, when she had a work experience placement at CLEO magazine at just 13 years old. This passion led her to successfully complete an undergraduate and postgraduate qualification in the field. Today, Nicole excels as a professional speechwriter, with keen interest in understanding human cognition to write speeches that can better influence and persuade.In today's ever-evolving landscape, characterised by increasingly complex issues, Nicole stresses the importance of having some of the smartest people in the country working in communication, because good communication can help shape and change the world.Discussed in this episode:JFK and using cognitive understanding to underpin his greatest speechesEmotional decision-making at the crux of human beingsPlacing audiences in a threat or reward state, using the the NeuroLeadership Institute's SCARF (Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, Fairness) Model®Finding the balance of art and science in communicationsThe current opportunity for communicators to be creative Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose podcast series, we are in conversation once again with the University of Adelaide’s Dr. Taylor Willmott and Professor Jodie Conduit for the sixth and final instalment of the series. Jodie is the lead investigator on the Australian Research Council (ARC) funded ‘Collective Engagement Towards Social Purpose’ project, and has been working closely with Taylor on the analysis of qualitative data from interviews with community engagement managers and leaders of social purpose organisations. She stresses the importance of storytelling as a tool for leaders to connect with people. It's only with that really deep understanding and almost feeling the emotional connection as well, that for someone having gone through it, that we can start to have a common understanding of where we want to go and really connect with those people. – Professor Jodie Conduit Also joining us in this episode is Dr. Taylor Wilmott, a member of the University of Adelaide's research team for the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose research project. She emphasises the importance of the leader being a participant in workshops to ensure everyone feels like their voices will be heard. The leader has to be there as a participant and someone who is managing their power dynamics in the room and is able to step back, and recognise that everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses including themselves, and how best can we leverage them and make sure that everyone feels like their voice will be heard in the room. – Dr. Taylor WillmottThe conversation focuses on 7 tips for effective leadership in collective engagement:People-first.Make it tangible.Create access points.Get the right people in the room.Create a safe space.Empower people.Celebrate success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of GovComms' 'From the Vault,' we revisit our insightful conversation with Ian Andersen, who dedicated 35 years to improving communication for Europeans at the European Commission. As a passionate Participatory Innovation Adviser, Ian strived to foster genuine engagement and co-creation with stakeholders, even in the midst of the challenges posed by online discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the interview, we delve into Ian's remarkable journey as an Interpreter. He shares valuable insights, highlighting the crucial factors that contribute to an interpreter's success. Ian also emphasises the crucial role of active listening in achieving sustainable outcomes, and the importance of involving everyone in policy-making discussions.“Generating solutions start with the conversation. By focusing on actually listening, we can get to results that are sustainable, that people will actually happily engage in rather than try to flee from it.”Furthermore, Ian states that adopting a participatory policy-making framework reduces the influence of lobbyists and is the most productive way of involving stakeholders. As the interview concludes, effective strategies for harvesting and hosting productive conversations are explored, providing valuable insights for successful communication endeavors.Discussed in this episode:Why communication is leadership made fleshHow to develop your listening skillsHosting and harvesting conversations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on GovComms ‘From the Vault’, we dip into the archives to a conversation between contentgroup CEO David Pembroke, and Head of ‘City Communications’ for the City of Vienna’s Press and Information Services, Martin Schipany.They reflect upon how the City of Vienna has developed their communications approach across Martin’s career. The city is now working across multiple media projects and using content communications to create a strong relationship with their citizens."We created the so-called 'citizen journey'. Citizen journey is comparable to the customer journey as we know it from marketing, or also content marketing, so you know in which situation your customer needs which kind of information." - Martin SchipanyDiscussed in this episode:How do you get the attention of the political media officersWhy all government departments need to discover their citizen’s journeyWhere Europe is in their adoption of content marketingWhy communications team should be close to the leadershipHow do you convince government to adopt digital? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of a new season of the Govcomms podcast, "From the Vault." In these episodes, we travel back in time to the best conversations we had on the podcast with leaders, experts, and innovators in communications from around the world.This time, we will be revisiting our conversation from 2015 with Alex Aiken, the Executive Director of Communications for the United Kingdom (UK) Government.In this interview, Alex explains to host David Pembroke his approach to modernising government communications in the UK, the changing expectations of citizens, and the need to move from analogue to digital communication. They also delve into how digital communication has improved the delivery of government services, the challenges of government communicators and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose podcast series, we chat with Prof Ingo Karpen who is a Professor of Business and Design at the University of Adelaide and Karlstad University in Sweden. Ingo is also a Chief Investigator on the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose project, with a strong interest in improving lives and systems, and a desire to work with researchers and entrepreneurs to effect positive social change in various contexts.In conversation with our host David Pembroke, Ingo explores the role of human connections and relationships in collective engagement, with a particular focus on the importance of compassion.When it comes to social change, there is far less talk of compassion. Often, we look at charts, figures. We're interested in performance indicators. We try to assess the way we have performed in various ways, but often we don't put enough primacy on the on the human beings involved. It's a really fundamental phenomenon in society that can make a difference on a on a daily basis. – Prof Ingo KarpenAlso joining us in this episode is Dr. Taylor Wilmott, a member of the University of Adelaide's research team for the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose research project. She provides further insights into building compassionate communities.I think in terms of creating compassionate communities, there's two sides. There's the bottom up side to creating a compassionate community where it's really community members that are driving the collective and the change. The other side is the top-down model where policy changes in government or health systems are what further change and potentially what enable community members to feel empowered. – Dr Taylor WillmottDiscussed in this episode:The importance of human connections and relationships in collective engagementMechanisms for transitioning from individual engagement to collective engagement to achieve changeUnderstanding and practicing compassion in engaging othersPromoting positivity, purpose, and avoiding blame and judgment in collective engagement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Govcomms, we are joined by the Deputy Secretary of Revenue NSW, Scott Johnston. Scott is an internationally recognised statistician specialising in economic analysis, with a history of working as a senior leader across the Australian and United Kingdom public sectors.With our host David Pembroke, Scott discusses why Revenue NSW started to focus on a more customer-centred approach.“The tension of an organization that's primary purpose through history has been about collecting revenue - 40% of NSW budget comes from us - to stepping back and thinking, ‘Well, if we can provide an exceptional service to three and a half million people, the revenue will take care of itself’. But actually the relationship we have with people, which is an ongoing one, can thrive. That's made us fundamentally look at things differently.” – Scott JohnstonFurther, Scott discusses his views on integrating automation technology and artificial intelligence to improve customer experience.Tune in to the episode to learn how Scott’s leadership in digital transformation and focus on providing high quality customer service is creating impact at Revenue NSW.Discussed in this episode:Leading digital transformation and customer-centric designMitigating risks when integrating automation and AI technologyBeing a humble leader and driving effective collaboration Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"This story of Orange Sky really started a few years, before Orange Sky got kicked off in high school, my best mate, Nic and I went to school together and our school actually ran a food service for people doing it tough. So we had this opportunity when we were 15, to head out, cook breakfast for people, a kilometre from where we went to school who were sleeping in the park or sleeping, crisis accommodation centres around that centre." - Lucas Patchett In the latest episode of the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose podcast series, we chat with Lucas Patchett whos is the co-founder of Orange Sky alongside his best mate Nic Marchesi. Orange Sky is a platform that provides " for every day Australians to connect through a regular laundry and shower service. The focus is on creating a safe, positive and supportive environment for people who are too often ignored or who feel disconnected from the community. Our volunteers are not social workers or experts on homelessness - they are empathetic listeners and great conversationalists."Dr. Taylor Wilmott, a member of the University of Adelaide's research team for the Collective Engagement for Social Purpose research project, also joins us in this episode."So we spoke about a different food van, we spoke about showers in the first instance to, but then we said, "Well, actually let's just do one thing, do it well, give it a go and then we can build on it from there." And that I think has been a really key foundation to what we do now. It's really simple. It's doing a couple of things really well and then plugging in and collaborating with other service providers to make the biggest impact possible." - Lucas PatchettDiscussed in this episode: The importance of prioritising one thing at a time. How to overcome challenges and flip roadblocks into positive outcomes. Why you should have a clear and simple vision.To check out everything Orange sky does head to: https://orangesky.org.au/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this latest episode of GovComms we revisit a conversation from the 2022 Digital Government Festival hosted by the University of Melbourne. Robert Christie, Founder and Managing Director of Propel, Stephanie Speck, Chief Communications Officer at the Victoria Department of Education and Training, and David Pembroke, CEO of contentgroup, discuss the potentiality of active participation within the digital landscape for the public sector. "If you're not active in managing what you look like, what you say, your reputation and voice online, then someone else will be using that as an opportunity." - Stephanie Speck.As Pembroke points out, the current challenge lies in maturing relationships between government agencies and departments, as well as political officers, to find a space in which the guardrails are respectful and understood so that the public is better informed about what the government is doing.Tune in for tips galore and to find out how you can improve your digital reputation. Discussed in this episode:Managing your online presenceGovernment and its digital reputation The importance of continuous, focused, content and communication  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Arm yourself with the evidence you need to make a case... We shouldn't sit there in our own little bubbles and focus on our communication skills only... At the end of the day, we are business people just like everybody else, and we need to act like business people." - Sia Papageorgiou.Host David Pembroke engages in a discussion with multi-award-winning strategic communications leader and Managing Partner at the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence, Sia Papageorgiou."Our job is to build relationships with people. That is the key component of our role." I mean obviously strategic planning is important and you can't be an effective communication professional if you don't plan strategically. " Tune in to discover how to make a "real impact from often simple ideas." - David Pembroke.Discussed in this episode: How to demonstrate impact and create value through communications.Making a "real impact from often simple ideas." - David Pembroke.Building relationships with your audience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Doing that allows us to be more personalised with our communications. And that's definitely the future for us in government communications, you know? Making it more personalised. To be honest, the less we communicate the better. Because people are so busy these days, they don't want to hear from you with emails every day, or how many emails do you get every day in your inbox? It's so frustrating and we understand that. We get that feedback from customers.." - Angela Kamper A new GovComms season begins with Angela Kamper. Angela is the Executive Director for Brand Digital and Communications at the New South Wales Department of Customer Service. Host, David Pembroke, chats with Angela about how her previous career in journalism has helped her in her role at the Department of Customer Service."Sometimes people are a bit skeptical of journalism, so when you first start in government, people have been burnt perhaps, in the past or story hasn't been told the way they want it wanted it to be told. So when you come in as a journalist, you need to kind of sell yourself a little bit in the beginning, and start really focusing on building those internal relationships and showing how your storytelling can help them to get the right message across in a better way, so people can listen and engage with content." - Angela KamperThe pair discuss how the view of Government communications has changed throughout the years."In the past, people would often go to comms in a crisis. But now they've realised that, well, we actually have to engage the community before we make a decision. So we are playing a different role now, and we are really demonstrating that when you engage the community, you get a much better policy outcome, or programme outcome" - Angela Kamper Finally, David and Angela share some of the key aspects of the Department of Customer Service that make it a global leader in citizen-centric communications. Discussed in this episode:Personalising Government Communications The benefits of a Journalist background The inner workings of the Department of Customer Service Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we give you a 2022 reality mega mix.We revisit some of the key conversations from 2022 with the likes of Melinda Maddock, Richard Morecroft, Tim Price, Evan Ekin-Smyth, Melanie Gibbons, Deborah Rice and Stephanie Speck.Join in one the conversation as we talk all about the fundamentals of communications. "I think we need to move away from BAU plus COVID. BAU is COVID now. There is no going back to normal. We are in the next normal and systemic complex risk that we have to deal with." - Stephanie Speck"I really feel like modern digital communication, it's still got the elements of storytelling which have existed for thousands of years. Humans want to connect with other humans and we connect through stories. ". - Tim PriceDiscussed In this episode: The art of storytellingSolutions to some of the key issues the communications field facesHow you can use social media and digital content to your advantageSome key skills for any and all communicators Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we take to the air and view the state of government communication from 30,000 feet.With a little help from some of the guests we interviewed in 2022, we embark on a nostalgic trip down memory lane. As part of our best bits episode, we bring back some of our key conversations with guests Carlotta Alfonsi, Sanjay Pradhan, Karine Badr, Jodie Conduit, Patrick Kidd and Sharyn Rundle-Thiele."Citizens actually look at the government as unitary. They don't understand or necessarily care about the silos of the internal bureaucracy of government. When they see disjointed or not coordinated messages coming their way, it can create confusion and it can actually undermine the efficacy of each of the communication of different ministries that might on their own be quite well crafted and effective." - Carlotta Alfonsi"The fact that the nature of work is changing, technology is being used across all jobs. Nine out of 10 jobs will need people who are digitally literate in the next three years". - Patrick KiddDiscussed In this episode: The importance of citizen centric governmentChallenges of facing both misinformation and disinformationCohesive CommunicationWhy collective engagement is so important Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wanting to look at the crystal ball of communications?In this special episode we dive into the future of communications.David Pembroke, CEO and Founder of contentgroup, who hosts the podcast regularly, sits down with long-time friend Andrew Bell. As they fast forward to 2023, they discuss what may be next for government communications."The ambition for communication inside government and the public sector should be to better explain and better listened to people such that there is a greater understanding because ultimately, if there is a better understanding, we can build trust because that is a challenge. The Edelman Trust Barometer in Australia this year showed that only 52% of Australians trust government institutions." - David PembrokeDiscussed in this episode: RecruitmentWhy communications should be seen as a long-term career in the APSMeeting the needs of citizens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.