Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Menzies Leadership Forum

What kind of leadership does the next chapter demand?

In environments of heightened scrutiny and institutional fragility, leadership requires moral clarity and disciplined restraint.

Through a Defence or national service lens, this episode explores how leaders remain anchored in purpose when obligations are formal, stakes are high and public legitimacy must be protected.

The series concludes by examining leadership as guardianship — holding authority on behalf of others and sustaining institutional trust in times of uncertainty.

Key Themes:

• Duty and obligation
• Ethical reasoning in high-stakes environments
• Institutional legitimacy under pressure
• Leadership as guardianship

Brigadier John Fenwick (Retd), Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra in the faculty of Business, Government and Law, and a moderator/facilitator with the Cranlana Centre for Ethical Leadership  

How do institutions hold purpose across time, not just performance cycles?

Some institutions are designed to steward capital, assets or public trust across generations. Their decisions shape not just quarterly performance, but long-term national resilience.

This episode examines how leaders balance fiduciary discipline with broader responsibility — particularly when volatility and political pressure compress decision-making timeframes.

What does ethical reasoning look like when trade-offs unfold across decades? How do leaders remain anchored in purpose when market cycles and media cycles pull in different directions?

Stewardship is reframed not as caution, but as leadership maturity — the discipline to hold long horizons in short-term environments.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Intergenerational accountability
• Governance under volatility
• Ethical reasoning across time horizons
• Trust sustained over decades

Will Hetherton, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer - Future Fund

How does purpose show up in decisions, trade-offs, and action?

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

What catalyses clarity, conviction, and commitment?

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

Bonus Episode: Leadership as a Public Good — Developing Collective Capacity for a Complex World

What kind of leadership is needed when no single person can hold the whole picture?

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

What kind of leadership do we need to shape the future we want?

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 

What happens when leadership is shared, not centralised?

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

What does it take to lead in an age defined by polycrisis?

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

How do we know when leadership development actually makes a difference?

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

How do we build the courage to challenge tradition and embrace new ways of thinking?

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

As this eight-part series concludes, we reflect on the leadership Australia needs to meet this moment — bold, purpose-driven and future-focused.

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

Science is a powerful force for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges — but courageous leadership is needed to drive meaningful change.

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

How do leaders of global organisations align performance, trust and long-term responsibility?

Leadership at scale carries a particular gravity. Decisions made in boardrooms ripple through workforces, communities, capital markets and national systems. The larger the enterprise, the wider the consequence.

This episode explores the tension between performance and responsibility in global organisations operating under intense scrutiny. How do leaders sustain commercial discipline while maintaining social licence? How do they navigate transition, geopolitical complexity and stakeholder expectation without eroding institutional trust?

Purpose is examined not as a statement of values, but as a stabilising anchor when competing pressures intensify. When every decision carries reputational, economic and societal implications, ethical judgement must operate in real time.

The conversation surfaces what leadership capability looks like at scale — and how legitimacy is built, sustained or lost.

Key Themes & Talking Points:

• Social licence and institutional legitimacy
• Ethical reasoning under competing stakeholder claims
• Navigating transition in global systems
• Trust as a leadership outcome

Caroline Cox, Chief Legal, Governance and External Affairs Officer - BHP

Business leaders are navigating an increasingly volatile world where financial instability, social unrest, and environmental concerns are reshaping corporate responsibility.

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 

Social divisions are widening across the globe, placing increasing pressure on leaders to foster inclusion and strengthen community ties.

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 

Meaningful change in mental health requires courageous leadership that embraces both resilience and compassion.

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 

As the legal sector rapidly evolves, leaders are faced with difficult decisions about ethics, technology, and tradition.

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 

Reconciliation requires leadership that is bold, thoughtful, and committed to creating meaningful change.

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 

How do we build the courage to challenge tradition and embrace new ways of thinking?

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 

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Jennifer Robertson about the board's role in sustaining cultural and ethical integrity, beyond compliance.

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

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Quentin Jones from Culture Capital about addressing and transforming toxic cultures.

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 

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Matt Howell, the former Chief Executive Officer of Tomago Aluminium. Matt shares the incredible turnaround story of Tomago, an aluminium smelter in the Hunter Valley, NSW, where he served as CEO for nine years. He discusses the cultural change journey that not only resulted in significant financial returns but also improved safety standards to world-class levels, increased efficiency, and enhanced working conditions for employees. This transformation created the largest and most efficient aluminium smelter in Australasia, all underpinned by the value of care. Matt shares how he and the executive team led both the culture and business turnaround, the lessons learned, and key insights on how to architect and cultivate a culture for the greater good.

Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Matt Howell from Nystar

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Siobhan Toohill, a corporate sustainability expert, about strategies that benefit shareholders, customers, and society.

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 

What kind of leadership does the next chapter demand?

In environments of heightened scrutiny and institutional fragility, leadership requires moral clarity and disciplined restraint.

Through a Defence or national service lens, this episode explores how leaders remain anchored in purpose when obligations are formal, stakes are high and public legitimacy must be protected.

The series concludes by examining leadership as guardianship — holding authority on behalf of others and sustaining institutional trust in times of uncertainty.

Key Themes:

• Duty and obligation
• Ethical reasoning in high-stakes environments
• Institutional legitimacy under pressure
• Leadership as guardianship

Jo Tarnawsky, Former Chief of Staff to the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good, host Michelle Bloom speaks with Amie Wallis, Chief of People and Culture at the Australian Olympic Committee, about their cultural transformation journey over the past 8 years.

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

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Professor Kristy Muir is the CEO of the Paul Ramsay Foundation and a Professor of Social Policy at UNSW Sydney Business School on how leaders can cultivate and embed social value into their organisational cultures.  

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

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Somali Cerise on the art and science of measuring culture. We explore the tools and metrics available to measure culture, off the shelf options, versus a research approach and if it is indeed possible to measure organisational culture at all. We discuss if we are all on the same page in what we mean by culture, what is being measured and the purpose and value of measurement.  

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

In this episode of Cultivating Cultures for the Greater Good podcast, host Michelle Bloom speaks to Yolanda Saiz, CEO of St Vinnies, NSW about the foundational role that leadership plays in defining organisational culture. Culture is most typically defined as “the way we do things around here”. It is communicated in several ways through symbols and language such how people dress and talk to each other. It is also communicated through the organisational values that are deemed good and inform how people behave and make decisions. But culture is also shaped by the unspoken agreements, the shadow values within the organisation that drive unintended behaviours and consequences and really determine “the way things get done around here.   Yolanda shares some examples of how she and the leadership team at St Vinnies have cultivated a culture for the greater good. She also shares the transformational journey of the “Vinnie’s stores”, underpinned by the “no mission without margin” mantra.   Michelle Bloom from ANSTO; Yolanda Saiz from St Vinnies

Episode eight: In this episode of Leadership: Navigating Complexity, host Dr. Aiden M.A. Thornton is joined by a distinguished panel of leadership scholars and practitioners to explore the evolving challenges of leadership in an era of rapid change. Featuring Professor David V. Day, Professor Samuel Wilson, Dr. Kerry Elliott, and strategist Scott Ko, the discussion delves into key issues such as social divisiveness, polarized thinking, epistemic complexity, and burnout in a world of constant disruption. The conversation examines the struggle to align diverse worldviews, the limitations of binary thinking and quick fixes, and the role of connection and shared meaning in fostering progress. With insights into the transformative impact of AI on leadership, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives for leaders, strategists, and anyone navigating complexity in an ever-changing world.

Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor David V. Day from Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College; Professor Samuel Wilson  from Swinburne University of Technology; Dr. Kerry Elliott from ACER; Scott Ko from ColourSpace Gallery 

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/

 

The Answers to Your Leadership Development Questions: What constitutes truly effective leadership development? With an abundance of theories, frameworks, and methodologies available, how can we discern which approaches are most effective—and in what contexts? More critically, how do we measure genuine developmental progress in leaders?

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

Episode seven: Systems-Based Approaches to Fostering Leader and Leadership Development, featuring Professor Katherine Daniell, Director of the School of Cybernetics at The Australian National University & Professor David V. Day, Professor of Psychological Science & Leadership, Academic Director of the Kravis Leadership Institute at 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.

Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Professor Katherine Daniell from the School of Cybernetics at The Australian National University; Professor David V. Day from Kravis Leadership Institute at Claremont McKenna College Professor David V Day:

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

The ANU's perspective on cybernetic leadership:

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

 

Episode Six: On The Measurement of Leadership, featuring Dr Matt Barney, Founder and award-winning Organisational Psychologist & Professor John Antonakis, Organisational Behaviour in the Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Lausanne, Switzerland. 

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.

Dr Aiden M. A. Thornton from The Australian National University (ANU); Dr Matt Barney from TruMind.ai; Professor John Antonakis from HEC Lausanne - The Faculty of Business and Economics of the University of Lausanne. 

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 

Episode Five: The Neuropsychology of Complexity Leadership, featuring Dr Jess Herrington, Neuroscientist and Futures Specialist at ANU School of Cybernetics, The Australian National University.

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.

"Challenges & Opportunities in Developing Leadership" What stands between us and more effective leadership development? From the research-practice gap to emerging challenges like generative AI and leader burnout, traditional approaches are being tested like never before.

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

What guides leadership when compliance is not enough?

Financial institutions operate within highly regulated environments — yet regulation cannot resolve every dilemma.

This episode explores the limits of compliance-based governance. When risk models fail to capture social consequence, where does judgement reside?

Leaders reflect on how moral clarity, disciplined reasoning and institutional culture shape decisions under uncertainty. Purpose operates as a stabilising anchor when formal controls are insufficient.

Key Themes:

• Governance beyond compliance
• Moral judgement under uncertainty
• Risk, accountability and consequence
• Trust in financial institutions

Michael Saadie, CEO & Chairman JBWere

Episode Four: Bridging Theory and Practice in Complexity Leadership, with Professor Christopher Pietroni & Dr Rachel Lilley

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

Episode Three: Real-World Examples of Complexity Leadership, with Jackie O’Dowd, Founding Partner/CEO of Realising-Potential

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

Episode Two: The Fundamentals of Complexity Theory, with Shannan Distinguished Professor Geoffrey West

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

Episode One: Introduction to Leadership and Complexity, with Dr Kerry Elliott & Associate Professor Alessandra Capezio

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) 

"Leadership Development for What?" What are we developing leaders to be or do? When/where/how do we distinguish between educating, training, and developing leaders and/or processes of leadership? 

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. 

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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Welcome to the seventh episode of the series, "Empowering Others to Lead with Purpose" featuring Peggy O’Neal, American born Australian lawyer, Chancellor of RMIT University and former president of Richmond Football Club (AFL). 

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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Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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Meaningful change requires both institutional reforms and individual actions. In our latest episode, Liz Gillies, CEO, Menzies Foundation, and Associate Professor Sam Wilson take a deep dive into Australia's civic health and leadership. This insightful discussion centres on the findings from the newly launched report, The Civic Health of Australia: A National Portrait in 30 Charts, powered by the Menzies Foundation and developed by Associate Professor Sam Wilson and the Australian Leadership Index at Swinburne University.

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.

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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What does purpose demand when affordability and supply chains intersect?

Retail and consumer-facing sectors operate at the frontline of cost-of-living pressures. Leaders must navigate supplier relationships, workforce expectations and consumer affordability simultaneously.

This episode examines how fairness is interpreted across interconnected value chains. What responsibility does a leader hold upstream and downstream? How are trade-offs made transparent?

Purpose becomes the anchor that clarifies responsibility across complex economic ecosystems — ensuring commercial viability does not erode trust.

Key Themes:

• System-wide fairness and accountability
• Supply chain responsibility
• Cost-of-living pressures
• Transparency and stakeholder trust

Callum Smith, Chief Merchandise and Marketing Officer Kmart Australia Limited and Dr Peter Collins - Executive Director, Peter Collins and Associates 

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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“What is Leadership”, the premise is simple: in order to effectively develop leadership (and therefore justify the exorbitant spending on it), we need greater clarity on what exactly 'it' is.  

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. 

Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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Leadership: Pivot to Purpose Series, hosted by Peter Collins 

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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