Education and health systems operate at the centre of public trust. Leaders in these environments face deeply human dilemmas — balancing equity, funding pressures, regulatory requirements and workforce strain.

This episode explores how purpose anchors judgement when no option is without cost. How do leaders prioritise access, sustainability and fairness simultaneously? What happens when institutional resources are constrained but community expectations are not?

The conversation reveals the moral weight carried by leaders in essential services — and how disciplined judgement sustains legitimacy in environments of constraint.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Equity and access in essential systems
• Contextual ethical dilemmas
• Resource allocation under pressure
• Trust in public institutions

Kelly Bayer Rosmarin, CEO and Group Managing Director Australian Unity and Dr Peter Collins - Executive Director, Peter Collins and Associates 

How does purpose move from statement to organisational discipline?

Purpose often appears in strategy documents — but far fewer organisations successfully embed it into governance, incentives and daily behaviour.

This episode explores how leaders translate purpose into operational systems. How are decisions filtered? How are trade-offs made visible? How is accountability reinforced?

The discussion surfaces how ethical reasoning capability is cultivated across leadership teams — not just at the top. Culture, performance metrics and governance structures must align if purpose is to guide behaviour under pressure.

Purpose becomes an operating system — shaping judgement before crisis arrives.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Embedding purpose in governance and strategy
• Leadership modelling and cultural alignment
• Incentives, accountability and behavioural signals
• Building distributed ethical reasoning capability

Will Harvey, Professor of Leadership - Melbourne Business School and Dr Peter Collins - Executive Director, Peter Collins and Associates 

As new forms of leadership emerge at the intersection of technology, behavioural insight, and social impact, how will purpose evolve? In this closing conversation, guests explore how data, economics, and human motivation can work together to drive a more inclusive and values-aligned future — one where purpose becomes an active force for systems change.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The next frontier of purpose-driven leadership
• Data, behavioural science, and the future of civic engagement
• Redefining leadership impact for emerging generations

With Thomas Walker - CEO of Think Forward & Hosted by hosted by Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson, Global Voices

This conversation examines how shared purpose builds momentum, trust, and collective action. Guests explore the beauty and friction of co-leadership and reflect on what it takes to align across difference in pursuit of the greater good.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Aligning across difference
• The dynamics of co-leadership and collaboration
• Purpose as a system-wide, relational practice

With Beth Eggleston - Co-Founder & Director at Humanitarian Advisory Group & Hosted by hosted by Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson, Global Voices

This conversation examines how shared purpose builds momentum, trust, and collective action. Guests explore the beauty and friction of co-leadership and reflect on what it takes to align across difference in pursuit of the greater good.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Aligning across difference
• The dynamics of co-leadership and collaboration
• Purpose as a system-wide, relational practice

With Thom Woodroofe – Senior International Fellow with the Smart Energy Council & Hosted by hosted by Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson, Global Voices

"Power Prosperity Planet" visit: https://www.booktopia.com.au/power-prosperity-planet-thom-woodroofe/book/9781923192751.html

Moving from reflection to action, this episode explores the realities of living one’s purpose in high-stakes, high-pressure environments. Guests share candid accounts of moments when values were tested, decisions were complex, and resilience became essential.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Leadership in messy, uncertain spaces
• Holding true to values under pressure
• Purposeful risk-taking and courage in action

With The Hon. Justice Michael Kirby AC CMG – Former High Court Justice, Human Rights Advocate & Hosted by hosted by Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson, Global Voices

This episode explores the origins of purpose — those pivotal moments that ignite a leader’s sense of direction. Through personal stories and reflections, guests unpack how identity, experience, and values shape leadership journeys and help distinguish ambition from deeper purpose.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Defining purpose on your own terms
• Identity, lived experience, and leadership emergence
• The difference between ambition and deeper purpose

With Dr Naba Alfayadh from Rahma Health & Hosted by hosted by Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson, Global Voices

In this Bonus Episode of The Future of Leadership Development, Dr Toby Newstead is joined by Professor David Day and Liz Gillies to explore a defining challenge of our time: the growing gap between the complexity of the world and the way we develop leadership.

As global challenges intensify — from climate disruption and political polarisation to declining trust and the rise of generative AI — leaders are increasingly expected to navigate overlapping crises that no individual can solve alone. This Bonus Episode examines why traditional, individual-focused models of leadership development are no longer fit for purpose and explores the shift toward collective leadership capacity grounded in purpose, ethics, and shared responsibility.

Listeners are invited to rethink leadership not as a scarce commodity or positional role, but as a public good — essential to navigating complexity and shaping a more resilient, humane future.

Key Themes & Talking Points

• Why “hero leadership” models are breaking down

• Leader development vs leadership development

• Collective leadership as a response to complexity

• Purpose and ethics as anchors in uncertainty

• Leadership as a public good

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania, Professor David Day from Claremont McKenna College and Liz Gillies, CEO Menzies Leadership Foundation

The final episode looks ahead, asking what a national platform for leadership development should look like in order to meet critical transitions across health, education, climate, and productivity. Do these adaptive challenges demand a new way of leading? And if so, how do we build the individual and collective capabilities required to enable that shift? This conversation will leave listeners with insights into what it will take to ensure leadership development genuinely creates impact for the greater good.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The critical transitions ahead and what they demand of leadership.
• The capabilities leaders must develop to navigate these transitions.
• What a national platform for leadership development could look like.
• How to ensure leadership development is impactful, inclusive, and future-focused.

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania and Professor Rufus Black from University of Tasmania 

Impact at scale requires collaboration across governments, business, philanthropy, and communities. This episode explores real-world stories of distributed leadership, including Indigenous and citizen-led approaches that demonstrate how collective leadership can create more just and sustainable outcomes. Listeners will hear practical lessons on building trust, sharing power, and mobilising diverse groups towards common goals.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The value of distributed leadership across sectors.
• Indigenous and citizen-led models as exemplars of collective leadership.
• Building trust and partnerships to drive systemic change.
• What collective leadership teaches us about the future of leadership development.

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania and Jack Manning from AIME and Liz Gillies from Menzies Leadership Foundation

his episode examines the capabilities and mindsets leaders need to navigate unprecedented pressures—from climate disruption and geopolitical instability to social division and rapid technological change. We’ll discuss how leaders can not only survive but thrive by embracing emotional intelligence, systems thinking, and collaboration—and what it looks like to develop these traits in practice.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The crises shaping today’s leadership landscape.
• The pressures and tensions these crises create for leaders.
• Core mindsets: resilience, systems thinking, ethical reasoning, collaboration.
• How these capabilities can be developed through leadership education.

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania Professor David Snowden from The Cynefin Company

Leadership development is often promoted as the answer to major social, organisational, and global challenges. But how can we tell if it is truly effective? This episode explores how researchers, practitioners, and communities define “evidence,” from measuring individual growth to evaluating broader systems change. Listeners will hear what it takes to design, deliver, and assess programs that not only build capability but also deliver tangible outcomes for society.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The diversity of leadership programs and the problems they aim to address.
• What counts as “evidence” of leadership development.
• Balancing research perspectives with practitioner experiences.
• Measuring transformation: from personal leadership growth to systemic change.

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania Professor Nathan Eva from Monash Business School; Benny Callaghan from Systems Collaboration Partners

This episode explores why traditional 20th-century models of leadership are no longer fit for today’s realities. By examining the rise of adaptive, collaborative, and ethical approaches, we’ll consider how leadership development must evolve to serve a complex, interconnected world. Listeners will gain insight into what “leadership for the greater good” means in practice—and the risks, resistance, and rewards of reshaping leadership development for a future defined by change.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Why outdated “hero leadership” models no longer serve today’s challenges.
• The rise of adaptive, ethical, and collective leadership approaches.
• The influence of global trends on how we develop leaders.
• Guardrails to ensure leadership development creates positive, future-focused impact.

With Toby P. Newstead from University of Tasmania Professor Ron Riggio from Claremont McKenna College + Dr Polly McGee from DisCo | Disruptive Consulting

In the final episode of A Purposeful Edge: Leading in Uncertainty, Dr Peter Collins is joined by Rob Scott, CEO of Wesfarmers and former Olympian, to explore how courage, purpose and reform can shape Australia’s future. Listeners gain insights on leading through uncertainty and redefining long-term value creation.; challenging leaders to think generationally, act collaboratively, and lead for the greater good.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The kind of leadership needed to navigate uncertainty and drive reform.
• How courage and clarity of purpose build resilient teams and systems.
• The private sector’s role in creating shared, long-term value.
• Lessons on discipline, focus, and leadership under pressure.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Rob Scott from Wesfarmers

This episode will explore how leaders in science can play a transformative role in responding to complex global issues such as climate change, pandemics, and social inequality. Listeners will gain insights into the role of purpose in scientific inquiry, how to overcome resistance to innovation, and strategies for mobilising science to influence policy and public trust.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• The role of scientific research in tackling 'wicked problems' like climate change and public health crises.
• Why courage is essential in pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry.
• Navigating public trust in science during times of polarization.
• How purpose-driven science can shape a more sustainable and equitable world.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Dr. Megan Clark AC

This episode will explore how courageous leaders in the private sector are redefining success by blending commercial imperatives with social impact. Highlighting the importance of embedding purpose and adaptability into corporate strategies, plus its role in building resilience and supporting employee well-being - driving sustainable outcomes during challenging times.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• How business leaders can manage economic uncertainty while maintaining social responsibility.
• Strategies for balancing financial performance with values-driven leadership.
• The importance of adaptability in fostering innovation and resilience.
• How corporate leaders can engage employees and customers in purpose-driven strategies.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Linda Mellors from Regis Aged Care 

This episode will explore how courageous leadership can address social fragmentation, counter misinformation, and foster empathy. Examining the complexities of navigating migration, asylum, and social cohesion in turbulent times — listeners will hear insights on practical strategies for building trust, promoting intercultural understanding, and creating inclusive environments where communities can thrive.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• How leaders can navigate tensions surrounding migration, asylum, and cultural divides.
• Practical strategies for building trust and strengthening social cohesion.
• Countering misinformation to create inclusive and informed communities.
• Supporting displaced and marginalized communities through purposeful leadership.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Paris Aristotle AO from Foundation House Victoria 

This episode will explore the complexities of mental health reform, with a focus on the long-term commitment required to shift systems, reduce stigma, and improve access to care. Listeners will hear how purpose-driven leadership can inspire sustained change, promote community resilience, and address the increasing mental health challenges facing individuals and families.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Why mental health reform requires long-term resilience and courageous leadership.
• The growing mental health crisis and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.
• How leaders can champion mental health reform in workplaces and public policy.
• Personal reflections on leadership through adversity and systemic inertia.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Rachel Green from SANE Australia 

Episode three will explore how courageous leadership can help reshape legal frameworks to keep pace with social and technological advancements. From the implications of artificial intelligence to innovations that improve access to justice, this episode will explore how purpose-driven leadership can balance digital transformation with social responsibility.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• How technology is reshaping the legal landscape — and what this means for leadership.
• The courage required to challenge traditional legal frameworks and embrace innovation.
• Balancing technological advancements with ethical practice and justice.
• How leaders can embed purpose and trust in digital transformation strategies.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Terri Mottershead from Mottershead International Pty Ltd 

Episode two will explore how courageous leadership can foster new approaches to Indigenous engagement, including strengthening partnerships between public, private, and community sectors. Reflecting on the importance of building trust, this exploration will promote cultural understanding, and amplify Indigenous voices to create positive social impact.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• How public and private sectors can collaborate to advance Indigenous reconciliation.
• The courage required to challenge stereotypes and build inclusive frameworks.
• The power of Indigenous knowledge in addressing contemporary societal issues.
• Strategies for embedding Indigenous voices in leadership and decision-making.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Dr Terri Janke from Terri Janke and Company 

Episode one will explore how leaders can step away from established norms to create more adaptable, purpose-driven institutions. Reflecting on how higher education, governance, and leadership frameworks are evolving, this episode will examine how leaders can embrace disruption while maintaining a clear sense of purpose.

Expect insights on the risks, resistance, and rewards that come with leading differently in a complex world.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• How global shifts are impacting educational institutions and leadership in academia.
• The role of universities in fostering civic engagement and social impact.
• Courageous decision-making in navigating the tension between tradition and innovation.
• Insights into how education leaders can prepare students for complexity and uncertainty.

Dr Peter Collins from Peter Collins and Associates: Dr Rufus Black, University of Tasmania 

Jennifer discusses the importance of boards aligning culture with corporate purpose and values, shifting from “can we” to “should we” in contemporary governance.

She shares insights on how boards can influence organisational culture, including examples from the recent Qantas culture report, and the role of leadership in driving cultural change.

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Jennifer Robertson from Board Matters

Quentin explores the role of ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in turning around toxic environments.

He discusses why focusing only on “bad apples” doesn’t solve the issue and how leaders can create sustainable change by addressing the wider organisational culture and relational dynamics.

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Quentin Jones from Culture Capital 

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Matt Howell from Nystar

Siobhan explores the alignment of ethical business practices and profitability, the rise of ESG factors in investment decisions, and how sustainability influences organisational culture.

She also discusses the moral obligation of businesses to address social justice issues and the impact on corporate culture.

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Siobhan Toohill a corporate sustainability specialist 

Facing significant challenges, the AOC conducted a comprehensive review leading to reforms in governance, people development, transparency, and accountability.

The result? A cultural shift that has positively impacted both the organisation and the broader Olympic community.

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Amie Wallis from the Australian Olympics Committee

There’s a growing societal expectation that organisations – and organisational leaders – should take a more active role in creating social value, not just for shareholders or customers, but for everyone, particularly those most marginalised.  

Given trust is at the core of social license to operate and building social value, we will explore the erosion of trust by many Australian organisations and what leaders can do to increase the trust, confidence and the social value of their organisations.  

Kristy shares her insights on how senior leaders need to balance their fiduciary responsibility, keeping the organisational purpose at the core, the role of values and how to balance social responsibility in economically difficult times.  

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Kristy Muir from Paul Ramsay Foundation

Shareholders, investors, regulators are all interested in understanding the culture of an organisation, as poor culture very often leads to poor outcomes for investors and consumers, it impacts on the integrity of the Australian financial markets, and erodes investor, consumer trust and confidence, impacting the wider eco system in which it operates.  

Somali shares her practical experience in how to measure and understand this mercurial concept of culture. 

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Somali Cerise from Elizabeth Broderick & Co

Resources: 

• Professor Day’s article on systems-based approach to development: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/7/548
• ANU School of Cybernetics white paper on Cybernetic Leadership: https://cybernetics.anu.edu.au/projects/cybernetics-leadership/

In this episode of Talking Leadership Development, we present key insights from the February 21st webinar. Hosted by Toby Newstead, PhD, the conversation involved leading scholars and experienced practitioners who engaged in a rigorous discussion on these pressing questions. Whether you are responsible for designing leadership programs, teaching leadership, developing others, or enhancing your own capabilities, this conversation offers research-driven perspectives and practical strategies to elevate leadership development in complex and evolving environments.

Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Dr. Ruchi Sinha from Nanyang Technological University Singapore; Dr. Scott Allen from Cox School of Business Executive Education, Southern Methodist University; Prof. Ronald Riggio from Kravis Leadership Institute - Claremont McKenna College

In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Professor Katherine Daniell & Professor David V. Day. The conversation focuses on the distinctions between leader and leadership development, and between event-based, practice-based, and systems-based approaches to development. David highlights that while traditional leadership development focuses on individuals, effective leadership development should aim to enhance the collective capacity of groups or organisations, especially in addressing complex challenges. Catherine echoes this viewpoint, noting that her cybernetics program focuses on collective development, selecting entire cohorts rather than individuals to foster systemic change.

• https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/14/7/548

• https://cybernetics.anu.edu.au/projects/cybernetics-leadership/

In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Dr Matt Barney & professor John Antonakis about the challenges of accurately measuring leadership behaviour, differentiating it from mere perceptions, which are often influenced by biases. Dr. Barney discusses advances in AI that enable the capture of precise behavioural data, a "game changer" in leadership evaluation, while Professor Antonakis highlights issues around traditional behavioural assessments and the importance of understanding nuanced perceptions.

Additional Resources: 

Dr Matt Barney

3 Transdisciplinary measurement through AI: hybrid metrology and psychometrics powered by large language models

Professor John Antonakis:

Learning Charisma, by John Antonakis, Marika Fenley and Sue Liechti 

John Antonakis, Google Scholar 

John Antonakis, ResearchGate 

In this episode, the discussion delves into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, leadership, and complexity. Dr Herrington brings her expertise in visual neuroscience to explore how the human brain processes patterns, textures, and the impacts of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s. The conversation shifts to the intricate ways leaders’ brains manage complexity, focusing on the critical roles of the prefrontal cortex, thalamus, and basal ganglia in metacognition, decision-making, and inhibition.

This episode also examines how stress influences problem-solving, emphasising the delicate balance between maintaining cognitive engagement and avoiding overwhelm. By understanding these dynamics, leaders can optimise their executive functioning and navigate complex challenges more effectively. Whether you’re a leader, a neuroscience enthusiast, or simply curious about the brain’s role in tackling complexity, this episode will inspire you to think deeply about how we approach leadership in an interconnected world.

Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Jess Herrington, Neuroscientist and Futures Specialist at ANU School of Cybernetics, The Australian National University.

Leading academics and seasoned practitioners unpacked critical challenges in leadership development and revealed promising ways forward. Hosted by Toby Newstead, PhD, the discussion delves into how leadership development, according to the panellists, must go beyond surface-level skills to embrace a deeper sense of purpose, empathy, and collective responsibility. It’s about navigating complex social and organisational challenges with a strong sense of purpose and accountability.

Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Professor Michelle Ryan, Gender Equality Expert, Professor of Social and Organisational Psychology; Dr Tomas Remenyi, Science Translator & Climate Scientist; Sara Redman, Leadership & Culture Consultant; Prof. David Day, Professor of Psychological Science and Leadership

In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Professor Christopher Pietroni and Dr Rachel Lilley about whether leadership truly makes a difference, particularly in the context of global populism and its impact on organisational narratives. The discussion delves into how leaders often resort to simplified, comforting messages to address complex issues, exploring the implications of this trend on both political and organisational levels. They examine the need for leaders to balance simplicity and complexity in communication, emphasising the importance of revealing genuine dilemmas to engage their teams effectively.

Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor Christopher Pietroni from University of Birmingham; Rachel Lilley from University of Birmingham

In this episode of the Leadership Navigating Complexity podcast, host Dr. Aiden Thornton speaks with Jackie O'Dowd, CEO of Realising Potential, about complexity leadership and its practical applications in today’s business environment. Jackie shares her insights on the challenges faced by senior leaders, emphasising the struggle to align strategies, engage employees, and deploy technology effectively. She discusses the paradox leaders encounter between maintaining current customer satisfaction while preparing for future demands.

Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Jackie O’Dowd from Realising-Potential

In this episode, host Dr. Aiden Thornton explores the fundamentals of complexity theory with Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding complex adaptive systems—networks with many interconnected parts that exhibit emergent properties. West emphasises that these systems, such as cities, are more than just the sum of their individual components. He also discusses the Institute's unique structure, which fosters interaction among a small group of scholars and visitors, allowing for dynamic exchanges of ideas without the rigidity of tenure.

Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West

In this episode, host Dr. Aiden Thornton delves into the concept of complexity leadership with guests Dr. Kerry Elliott and Alessandra Capezio. Together, they explore how leadership has evolved to address today’s interconnected challenges, underscoring the importance of collective approaches and adaptive skills. Their conversation highlights the need for innovative tools and strategies to navigate complex environments, setting the foundation for deeper insights in the episodes to come.

Dr Aiden Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Kerry Elliott from Australian Council for Educational Research; Alessandra Capezio from The Australian National University (ANU) 

This podcast adaptation delves into the complexities of leadership development, posing the critical question: "Leadership development for what?" With global investments in leadership programs, panellists explore the ultimate purpose behind them, considering whether the goal is personal advancement, organisational growth, or driving social change. Featuring perspectives from leadership scholars, Indigenous educators, and practitioners, the discussion emphasises the importance of mentorship, values-driven leadership, and addressing real-world issues like equity, justice, and climate action. The podcast challenges the status quo, calling for leadership development to be more inclusive, purpose-driven, and focused on creating meaningful impact in today’s complex world.

Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Dr Michael Lickers from Royal Roads University; Liz Gillies from the Menzies Foundation; Will Smith from JCP Youth; Herman Tse from Monash University & Harvard Business Review; and Suze Wilson from Massey University School of Management. 

Welcome to the eighth episode of the series, "Reflection and Action," Featuring Rebecca McGrath FAICD, Director, Macquarie Group.

In our final episode, we spotlight Rebecca McGrath, a leading ASX Director whose bold advocacy for climate action and a zero-carbon economy highlights the power of purpose in leadership. Her clarity and dedication to these vital issues exemplify how purpose can drive impactful change.

Rebecca’s story echoes the theme shared by all our podcast guests, each demonstrating a strong sense of purpose—whether drawn from 60,000 years of Indigenous traditions or the challenges of coal mining and space exploration. Purpose weaves through their experiences, building trust and nurturing potential.

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Peggy O'Neal’s journey into leadership began in the coal fields of her US hometown, where she grew up surrounded by a tough, working-class environment. A pivotal influence in her life was her mother, who instilled a sense of purpose and encouraged Peggy to break barriers by studying law, making her the first in her family to do so.

Fast forward to her new home in Australia, Peggy’s leadership path has been marked by significant achievements. She became a leader in law, served as Chancellor of RMIT University, and was President of the Richmond Football Club, leading the team to three premierships in just four years. Central to her success is her unwavering sense of purpose—creating opportunities and uniting people. This sense of purpose is reflected in her approach to leadership: fostering trust, building connections, and consistently repeating these behaviours until they become defining habits.

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Welcome to the sixth episode of the series, "Wisdom, Courage, and Resilience in Leadership," featuring Dr Robyn Miller, Chief Executive Officer, Mackillop Family Services. 

Our most recent podcast guest, Dr Robyn Miller, imparted a profound understanding that a leader with a clear sense of purpose can effectuate change even amidst complex challenges. With over 40 years of experience in addressing family violence, sexual abuse, and other deeply confronting issues, Dr Miller’s palpable sense of optimism becomes evident. Her discussion highlights how a reinforced sense of purpose and meaning serves as a catalyst for tackling obstacles. This foundational element has endowed her with the wisdom, resilience, and courage necessary to navigate her distinguished career with remarkable effectiveness.

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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The report paints a concerning picture of Australia’s civic health, revealing declines across three crucial dimensions: civic awareness and engagement, belonging and connecting in the community, and volunteering and giving.

Liz and Sam explore these findings in depth, offering a compelling analysis of the challenges in measuring leadership for the 'greater good', the alarming trends of distrust and polarisation, and the vital role each of us plays in fostering a healthier civic environment. Whether you're passionate about leadership, civic engagement, or simply curious about the future of our democracy, this episode is a must-listen.

Welcome to the fifth episode of the series, "Collaborative Leadership and Collective Responsibility," featuring  Lily Nguyen, Partner at Lander & Rogers.

Lily Nguyen, is one of the 930,000 people who arrived in Australia as refugees post-World War II. In the late 1970s, Lily was a baby carried by her mother on a perilous journey from war-torn Vietnam to Malaysia and eventually to Australia. Now a respected lawyer, Lily’s leadership reflects the power of family and community in nurturing leadership, a common thread throughout her narrative which affirms how leadership purpose often stems from deep-rooted values and the influence of the collective around us. 

Click through to listen and be inspired by powerful stories of leadership and purpose!

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Welcome to the fourth episode of the series, "Building and Leading Ethical Cultures," featuring Tony Shepherd AO, Chair of the Boards of the Greater Western Sydney Giants, the Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association and the Sydney Cricket Ground Trust.

Tony Shepherd, is a distinguished figure who has led the Business Council of Australia and made significant contributions across both private and public sectors in tackling major challenges by dismantling conventional barriers, addressing issues like productivity, decarbonisation, and Indigenous reconciliation across ASX companies and football clubs. He frequently discusses the importance of mentoring, respect, and learning from experts, highlighting a leadership philosophy that embraces the human dimension entirely. 

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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This webinar adaption explores the backdrop of the multi-billion-dollar leadership industry, within which little consensus exists in relation to what leadership actually is or how to develop it, and in consideration of the often-bemoaned gap between research and practice, Talking Leadership Development showcases diverse perspectives in an effort to distill synergies and lift the understanding and practice of leadership development in Australia and beyond. 

Hosted by Dr Toby Newstead and Dr Joey Crawford from the University of Tasmania, the panel included Adam Gowen from Country Universities Centre Southern Shoalhaven; Professor Amy Tian from Curtin University; Associate Professor Nathan Eva from Monash University; and Katherine Ellis, CEO of Leadership Victoria. 

Welcome to the third episode of the series, "Navigating Challenges with Purpose," featuring Andrew Crisp AM APM, former Australian police officer, Emergency Management. 

Andrew Crisp has held several notable roles, including Deputy Commissioner in Victoria’s Police Force, part of the counter-terrorist unit at Vic Pol, service in Papua New Guinea, and participation in Australia’s peace-keeping mission in Timor-Leste. He was also a key leader in managing COVID-19 and Emergency Management in Victoria.

Over 30 years, he has worked to bridge gaps between various migrants and other communities in Victoria, solidifying his purpose as being a ‘connector’: building trust and reaching out, even to those with critical views of Victoria Police. 

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Welcome to the second episode of the series, "The Foundation of Purpose," featuring Australian astronaut, Dr Beth Jens, NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Engineer. 

Dr Jens, was instantly inspired when NASA came to her hometown of Geelong to talk about space when she was 16 years old, her life has never been the same since. She now works for NASA in the United States and has dedicated her working life to being an astronaut who will go on a mission to Mars. 

Beth holds purpose as a guide to her life. To quote JFK, “we do these things not because they are easy but because they are hard and because we need to push the limits of human possibilities to new frontiers – whether that be in space, or medical research or in the way we teach and inspire young people to realise their full potential and their purpose.”

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Welcome to the first episode of the series, "Purpose and Leadership," featuring Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, and Menzies Foundation Board Director.

An Arrernte/Luritja woman from Central Australia, Catherine's mission is of rich tapestry that culminates in traditions of Indigenous storytelling, kinship, and community, all foundational pillars of leadership and resilience for over 60,000 years.

“He had blue eyes.” This poignant memory, captures the lasting impression her grandfather had of the government official who took him away from his parents.

Despite this painful history, Catherine has found a profound purpose inspired by Aristotle's concept of human flourishing, a dedication and contribution that is deeply seeded in ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experience well-being and the full breadth of opportunities available in life. 

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In complexity, the anchor that ensures progress is made is the identification of a shared purpose, underpinned by the values and principles that enact that purpose. Often referred to as the ‘north star’, purpose galvanises action, creates the imperative and provides the context to reconcile what matters most. It is the thing that shapes who and what we want to become.

It is through this lens, the Leadership: Pivot to Purpose podcast series, hosted by Dr Peter Collins, will feature the perspectives of eight, multi-sector, influential figures, with each episode offering insights into how individuals navigate challenges and lead with courage, wisdom, and resilience. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this series promise to engage, enlighten, and empower listeners to embrace purpose-driven leadership in their own lives.

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Join us as we explore how Web3 can revolutionise community finance and challenge financial inequities.

What is Web3? Web3 is the next generation of the internet where individuals control their digital lives through blockchain technology, enabling secure and transparent interactions. 

Facilitated by Liz Gillies, CEO, Menzies Foundation, this podcast features insights from

• Joy Anderson, Founder and President of Criterion Institute;
• Michelle Baldwin, Senior Advisor at Community Foundations of Canada and contributor to SuperBenefit DAO; 
• Anna Powell, CEO of Collaboration for Impact.

Learn more -

REPORT: Designing Web3 Financial Innovations for Social Change

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This important work is powered by Menzies Foundation and in collaboration with Criterion Institute.

Working systemically, Menzies Foundation is committed to exploring the culture infrastructure and capability platform to build citizen leadership, resilience, and new ways of thinking to inform the development of governance and capital flows to support the agency and autonomy of communities to flourish.

In this episode, Liz Gillies, CEO Menzies Foundation and newly appointed Menzies Senior Research Fellow, Leadership and Complexity, Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton explore the recent appointment, and the relationship between purpose and the capability required to lead in complexity; all with the understanding that these are essential elements if we are to drive positive change for the greater ‘good’. 

Cindy plays a crucial role in our Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship initiative, focusing on empowering Indigenous Women and as an industry PhD fellow, she has not only contributed significantly to the Maganda Makers program but also serves as the storyteller shaping the narrative at the core of our mission.

In this episode, we delve into her transformative journey over the past few years and discover the profound insights and knowledge her PhD has unearthed and how it continues to shape and inform our ongoing work.

We are excited to celebrate Cindy's extraordinary contributions and explore the impact of her work on Maganda Makers and beyond.

Join Alex Hannant and Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore catalytic philanthropy, systems transformation and uncover the conditions we need to accelerate regenerative and distributive futures.

Alex Hannant is Executive in Residence, Griffith Centre for Systems Innovation and Director, Pocketknife

Join AIME Co-CEO's; Parul Punjabi and Suzie Winkelman togther with Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore purpose and leadership, the collaborative journey and the patterns that humans hold with each other and the world around us

Join Al Jeffery and Menzies Foundation CEO, Liz Gillies as they explore purpose and leadership in what is an increasingly complex, polarized, tribal and challenging world.

Al Jeffery is an internationally renowned community-designer, group-facilitator, author and leadership expert in service to our hyperconnected-yet-deeply-fragmented world. As Co-Founder and Director at The Base Between (formerly Base Commons), Al explores the themes of disconnection prevalent today, designs and facilitates spaces for re-connection in communities, leadership and the lives of individuals. With his creative career starting at just 12 years old, Al has been listed in Australia’s Top 30 Entrepreneurs Under 30 twice in a row and nominated for Young Australian of the Year.

Take a moment to join Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO and CEO, Regen Melbourne, Kaj Löfgren as they unpack purpose and leadership.

Kaj is also the Entrepreneur in Residence at Small Giants Academy where he collaborates on the Academy’s education and storytelling initiatives, including the Impact Safari program and the Mastery of Business and Empathy.

Jesuit Social Services works to build a just society where all people can reach their potential and flourish as human beings. A just society is a safe society where everyone can have healthy, fulfilling relationships built on respect. 

This initiative is supported by an outstanding advisory board, comprised of Australian experts in the law, technology and ethics. And today I'm absolutely delighted to welcome Cam Whitfield, our very esteemed chair of the advisory board. Cam is a partner at help at Herbert Smith Freehills, specializing in digital law, cyber security and emerging technologies, and an honorary senior fellow and lecture at the Melbourne Law school. Prior to going back to private practices this year, Cam was a partner at PWC, focusing on digital and technology, cyber security and digital trust.

Born and raised in the East Kimberley, Natasha is passionate about positive social change and righting injustices. Aware of the challenges within the Kimberley region, she is solutions-focused and positive about the future.

Together we strive to highlight the importance of building platforms focused on women’s economic empowerment to support these women to help themselves, support their families and communities, connect to markets and access financial services.

In this episode, Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO and Jennifer Dulski, CEO and Founder of Rising Team, explore how empowering managers to build a more engaged, connected, and successful team is an increasingly important component of leadership in a globalized, digitized, tribal world. 

In this episode, Liz Gillies, Menzies Foundation CEO has the benefit of exploring Anna's wisdom and corporate insight in this conversation about leadership.

Focused on the cutting edge of understanding the skills and capabilities required for this future, the program will focus on the type of leader and leadership attributes required to lead in an increasingly connected, complex and adaptive world.

Liz Gillies, CEO sat down with Professor Genevieve Bell to discuss the new initiative and consider the future leadership landscape.