Advertise on podcast: GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

As we step into 2026, now's the time to ensure everyone's voice is heard. In this episode of GovComms, we revisit host David Pembroke's conversation with Richard Etienne: internal communications expert, author of The Introvert’s Survival Guide, and founder of The Introvert Space. Together, they explore how introverts can lead, influence, and thrive in workplaces that often reward volume over value. From overcoming self-doubt to navigating hybrid work, Richard shares powerful, practical strategies to help introverts find their voice without having to shout. He also offers advice for leaders on how to build inclusive teams where every personality type can succeed. Whether you identify as an introvert, manage one, or simply want to create more inclusive and effective teams, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable tips. Discussed in this episode:Why introverts often go unheard and how to change thatHow to build your personal brand without self-promotionThe hidden strengths introverts bring to leadershipWhat Theresa May taught Richard about quiet influence at the top Show notes:The Introvert Space | Richard EtienneThe Introvert’s Survival Guide | Richard EtienneQuiet | Susan CainBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an era of constant disruption, government communicators are being asked to lead without all the answers. In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke is joined by leadership experts Dr Marianne Broadbent and Adam Kyriacou to explore how communications teams can navigate AI and rising expectations, whilst building trust and impact. It’s an insightful discussion revealing why comms professionals are no longer at the ‘end of the line’, but rather central figures in enterprise performance. Join David, Marianne and Adam as they pull back the curtain on how to lead in the face of transformation. Discussed in this Episode How to integrate AI responsibly while maintaining a human-centred approachWhy trust, purpose, and psychological safety are now core leadership capabilities in the public sectorPractical ways comms teams can support senior leaders and build public trust Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if better communication starts with listening, not telling? In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Natasha Plowman: a communications strategist, advisor, and founder of Spinning Red. Together they explore how listening, empathy, and authentic storytelling can transform the way governments engage citizens. From unpacking the ineffectiveness of the old ‘broadcast’ model to examining the use of buzzwords in sustainability conversations, Natasha urges listeners to imbue their stories with honesty, empathy, and curiosity. In a world where government communicators are facing rapid transformation, this episode offers a timely reminder. Meaningful change begins with understanding your audience — not just speaking louder. DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEHow listening creates more effective and trusted communicationWays to communicate across five generations in the workplaceHow storytelling connects people and drives understandingWhy transparency builds credibility during complex changeHow curiosity and self-awareness improve leadership communication SHOW NOTESSpinning Red | Natasha PlowmanBreak the Silence Collective | Natasha PlowmanEmily’s List | Emily’s List AustraliaHigher Ground | Alison TaylorBlog | GovComms Podcast LinkedIn | GovComms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when authenticity becomes your greatest communication strategy? In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Oluchi Ezeugo, a leading corporate communications professional from Lagos, Nigeria, who’s helped organisations across Africa navigate change, crisis, and culture. Oluchi reveals how authentic storytelling transforms workplaces — building trust, inspiring teams, and connecting people to purpose. From guiding leaders through tough moments to rebuilding confidence after crisis, she shares practical lessons every communicator can use. For public sector and government professionals, this episode is a masterclass in real, human communication — showing that when you lead with honesty and empathy, trust follows. Discussed in this episode:Discover why authentic storytelling is the foundation of trustLearn how to communicate change with empathy and clarityExplore the power of internal comms to shape cultureHear how great leaders build psychologically safe teamsUnderstand how to rebuild confidence after professional setbacksHow AI and social media are reshaping communication Show notes:Blog | GovComms PodcastLinkedIn | GovComms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to thrive as a communicator in a rapidly changing world? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke speaks with Ross Monaghan, award-winning educator and communications leader from Deakin University. From his early days as a teenage journalist in Warrnambool to senior roles at Optus and the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association, Ross has seen the profession evolve from every angle. Ross shares why persistence and curiosity matter, how communicators can show leadership at any stage of their career, and why “dreaming big” is vital. He also unpacks the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence, urging communicators to take the lead on its ethical use. Discussed in this episode:Lessons from Ross’s early career in journalism and industry.Building confidence to chase opportunities others might not.Why leadership is about action, not job titles.Creating stronger workplace culture through human connection.Open, honest communication as a tool for solving conflict.The communicator’s role in guiding ethical AI adoption. Show notes:International Association of Business Communicators | IABCPanuara South community benefits from new Optus mobile tower | OPTUSAI Workshops | Ross MonaghanHypeCloudAI podcast | Ross MonaghanRoss Monaghan | LinkedInBlog | GovComms PodcastLinkedIn | GovComms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if everything you thought you knew about effective communication was wrong? In this episode, host David Pembroke speaks with James Healy, founder of The Behaviour Boutique and co-author of BS at Work. James has worked in more than 60 countries and brings deep insights from behavioural science, anthropology, and psychology to the challenges facing modern organisations and governments. James unpacks why so much of work is “BS” and why policies often fail to change behaviour. He shows how context shapes decisions, why storytelling matters, and shares the simple EAST framework to help communicators cut through. Discussed in this episode:James’s path from economics to behavioural scienceLessons from the global financial crisisWhy massive handbooks never change behaviourHow culture and incentives drive decisionsWhere governments use behavioural science wellQuick wins for communicators on timing and delivery Show notes:BS at Work: Why So Much of Modern Work is BS and How Behavioural Science Can Make It Better | James HealyThe Behaviour BoutiqueAdopting AI: The People First Approach | James Healy, Paul GibbonsThe EAST framework | The Decision LabJames Healy | LinkedInThe B Word | Podcast by James HealyBehavioural Science | OECD ReportBlog | GovComms PodcastLinkedIn | GovComms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do bushfires, TikTok, and police comms have in common? For Kendall Masters, they’ve each shaped a sharp, no-nonsense approach to government communication. In this episode, she joins David Pembroke to unpack what it really takes to build trust, cut through the noise, and connect with the public — especially when time and attention are in short supply. Kendall shares lessons in agility, authenticity, and strategic clarity, from rolling out TikTok with Victoria Police to managing emergency comms during the 2019–20 bushfires and COVID-19. They explore the limits of video, the myth of reach-for-the-sake-of-it, and why good reporting is about more than numbers — it’s about telling the right story to the right people. Discussed in this episode:Moving from traditional media to digital-first commsLessons from bushfire and COVID-19 emergency responseWhen video works — and when it doesn’tLaunching TikTok with  Victoria PoliceDitching vanity metrics for meaningful reportingBuilding skilled, strategic comms teamsShow notes:TikTok | Victoria PoliceBlog | GovComms PodcastLinkedIn | GovComms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your comms team keeping up, or just keeping busy? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Mitchell Dye, the dynamic voice behind the City of Greater Geelong’s external communications. From community radio to leading digital strategy, Mitchell shares a front-row view of how local government is reinventing the way it engages with citizens—one authentic story at a time. David and Mitchell unpack what it takes to stand out in the crowded digital landscape, why the best communicators aren’t always in the comms team, and how to build trust through relatable, local voices. With fresh insights from years of hands-on experience, Mitchell offers a practical roadmap for future-proofing local government communication. Discussed in this episode:Reinventing comms in local governmentAuthentic storytelling vs polished brandingWhat community radio taught Mitchell about public commsFinding trusted voices beyond the comms teamManaging 24/7 comms without burning out Show notes:Planner | Microsoft94.7 The Pulse | Geelong Community RadioBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How will AI reshape the future of government communications—and what skills will you need to thrive? In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke is joined by Wayne Aspland, expert in public sector communication and AI strategy, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the role of communicators today and into 2030. Wayne shares how government teams can build AI capability, drive strategic alignment, and stay trusted in an era of rapid technological change. He also explains why human creativity, leadership, and critical thinking will be even more essential as automation accelerates. Discussed in this episode:How AI is reshaping communication rolesAchieving alignment across complex teamsBuilding AI skills as a teamManaging AI risks with clear guardrails Show notes:Day in the life of a comms person in 2030 | Wayne AsplandState of the Sector report | GallagherBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when your council loses public trust—and you’re the one answering the questions? In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Chloe Casey, Manager of Communications and Corporate Governance at the City of Casey, about leading through the fallout of the Operation Sandon investigation. Chloe shares how her team managed misinformation, community confusion, and the absence of elected councillors for almost five years, all while ensuring communications remained clear, composed, and responsive. She also reveals how they’re using AI, short-form video, and cold outreach to connect with the City of Casey, home to one of Australia’s most culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Her insights offer practical guidance for any government communicator navigating through change. Discussed in this episode:Leading through crisis with clarity and speedCombining comms and governance for stronger responsesEngaging CALD communities with targeted outreachUsing AI, video, and plain English to boost impactShow notes:Brolly | Social Media ManagementBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the best ideas in your team are the ones you never hear? In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Richard Etienne—internal communications expert, author of The Introvert’s Survival Guide, and founder of The Introvert Space. Together, they explore how introverts can lead, influence, and thrive in workplaces that often reward volume over value. From overcoming self-doubt to navigating hybrid work, Richard shares powerful, practical strategies to help introverts find their voice—without having to shout. He also offers advice for leaders on how to build inclusive teams where every personality type can succeed. Whether you identify as an introvert, manage one, or simply want to create more inclusive and effective teams, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable tips. Discussed in this episode:Why introverts often go unheard—and how to change thatHow to build your personal brand without self-promotionThe hidden strengths introverts bring to leadershipWhat Theresa May taught Richard about quiet influence at the topShow notes:The Introvert Space | Richard EtienneThe Introvert’s Survival Guide | Richard EtienneQuiet | Susan CainBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trust is on life support. People are tuning out. Tech is speeding up. Noise is everywhere. So how can government communicators break through? In this powerhouse episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke is joined by Ros Weadman – strategic communication expert, author, and driving force behind the Elevate Local Government Communications Summit 2025 – to unpack what it really takes to cut through and connect in today’s chaotic communication landscape. Ros doesn’t pull punches. With four decades in the game, she makes it clear: the old ways of pushing messages just won’t cut it. It's time to ditch the jargon, lead with heart, and communicate with courage. This is more than an episode—it’s a call to arms for public sector communicators who want to build trust, lead with purpose, and transform how government speaks to the people it serves. Discussed in this episode:How to ditch “message selling” and embrace bold, emotional storytellingThe real reason people feel disconnected—and how to bring them backHow to paint a vision people can believe in (and see themselves in)What’s broken in community engagement—and how to fix itWhy communicators must stop hiding behind process and step up as leadersShow notes:Elevate Local Government Communication Summit | GOVCOMMEvaluation Framework for Strategic Communication | PRIABlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Google still the king of search or has AI changed the game forever? The way people find information is undergoing the biggest shift in decades and government communicators can’t afford to be left behind. In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Jim Stewart, CEO of Stewart Media, about the seismic shift in digital search and what it means for public sector communication. A 25-year SEO veteran, Jim explains why this transformation is as significant as the birth of the internet and how government agencies can stay visible in AI-driven searches. From optimising government websites for AI-driven platforms to ensuring search bots can access critical public information, Jim breaks down the practical strategies to stay ahead. This isn’t just another tech trend – it’s a fundamental shift in how people find and use information. If you're in government communications, you can’t afford to ignore it. Tune in now to learn how to keep your content discoverable, credible and ready for the AI era. Discussed in this episode:Learn how AI is reshaping search and SEO strategies.Discover why government communicators must adapt to AI search.Find out how to keep public sector content visible online.Expert tips on optimising websites for AI bots.Explore AI tools that enhance communication and accessibility.Understand the future of government messaging in the AI era.Show notes:NotebookLM | GoogleChatGPT | OpenAITrends | GoogleHow Robots.txt works | GoogleBeyond Google: Mastering Search in A World Of AI Assistants | Jim StewartWebsite | StewArt MediaBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great communicators aren’t born—they’re made. In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke chats with Dr. Louise Mahler, an expert in leadership communication, about the art of presence, authenticity, and confidence. With a background in business and opera, Louise brings a unique perspective to what makes a great communicator—and why government professionals need to master these skills. Louise shares practical techniques to improve public speaking, from voice control and body language to storytelling and audience engagement. She explains the power of the "rule of three", how to structure compelling messages, and why good communication starts with breathing and body awareness. Whether you’re presenting to stakeholders, leading a team, or engaging the public, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you command attention and build trust. If you want to captivate, connect, and communicate with impact, this is the masterclass you need. Discussed in this episode:Gravitas builds trust through presence, authenticity, and confidence.Strong delivery relies on voice, body language, and gestures.The rule of three makes messages clear and memorable.Overcome self-doubt with mantras and better posture.Storytelling, humour, and connection keep audiences engaged.Breathing and structure improve communication impact. Show notes:Website | Louise MahlerGravitas | Louise MahlerThe 5 Canons of Classical Rhetoric | ThoughtCoThe Rule of 3 | Leadership GardenGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Governments generate endless information, but so much of it goes unseen. So, how do we turn it into content people actually care about? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke chats with Heather Lansdowne, a leader in transforming social media in government. As the social media manager at the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Heather and her team are turning heads in the government space, proving that data can be engaging, relatable, and even fun. She’s helped reshape how agencies communicate, bringing bold ideas and engaging content to the table. Her fresh approach connects with audiences in ways traditional comms never could. From navigating government approvals to making stats go viral, Heather shares how agencies can rethink their content strategy. She talks about building trust with leadership, using humour to engage audiences, and why governments need to act more like digital publishers. Whether you're a social media pro or a government communicator looking to push boundaries, this episode is full of insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you create content that truly connects. Discussed in this episode:Making government content engaging by turning reports into stories.Building trust with leadership to get buy-in for social strategies.Using humour to make statistics fun and relatable.Navigating approvals while staying compliant.Exploring social media trends in government.Showcasing ABS’s social media success.Show notes:Data Release Calendar | ABSGraphic Design App | CanvaSocial media | ABSGovComms Podcast | Blog Transcript:A transcript of this episode can be found here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.