What makes a message land?

In this episode, I sit down with Carmen Sederino, founder of Illuminated Story, to explore why storytelling is one of the most underused leadership skills today.

Carmen brings a rare perspective. With a background in performing arts and nearly two decades in corporate leadership, she works with CEOs and executives to strengthen how they communicate when it matters most.

We talk about the gap between delivering information and actually connecting with people. Why data alone rarely sticks. And how leaders can use story, presence, and energy to bring their message to life.

This is a practical conversation on executive presence, communication under pressure, and how to move from simply presenting information to creating real impact.

If you lead people, present often, or carry responsibility for communicating change, this episode will give you a clearer way forward.

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with James Chisholm, co-founder of Peeplcoach, for a conversation that goes well beyond traditional leadership advice.

James shares his journey from leading in a global corporate environment to experiencing a mental health breakdown that forced him to step back and reassess everything. What emerges is not a story of failure, but one of clarity. A shift from chasing results at all costs to building leadership that is human, sustainable and grounded in purpose.

We talk about the reality many leaders don’t speak about. Burnout that goes unnoticed. Cultures where people stay silent. And the pressure to perform that quietly ties self-worth to outcomes.

James challenges the way we think about resilience. Not as pushing through at any cost, but as self-management. Knowing when to step forward, when to slow down, and when to ask for help.

We also explore what leadership needs to look like now. Empathy not as a soft skill, but a commercial one. Coaching not reserved for executives, but essential for emerging leaders. And the growing expectation that people can show up as themselves at work without judgement.

There’s a clear message in this conversation. The old playbook is no longer enough. Human-centred leadership is not optional. It is what will define the organisations that attract, retain and grow the best people.

If you lead people, or aspire to, this is a conversation worth your time.

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What if you only had 4000 Sundays in your lifetime? And what if the way you work today is quietly stealing them away?

In this conversation, Dr Kristy Goodwin takes us inside her own life-altering wake-up call — a moment in a Code Red hospital ward that forced her to confront burnout, mortality, and the “success tax” so many high performers pay.

Kristy shares why our bodies keep score, how to stop crawling to Friday and start arriving at Sunday fully alive, and why protecting your focus, energy, and relationships is non-negotiable if you want to lead into the future.

This is not just about wellbeing, it’s about the kind of leaders we choose to become — human-first, sustainable, and fiercely intentional.

🎧 Listen now and ask yourself: how many Sundays do you have left, and how do you want to spend them?

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Jodi Geddes – co-founder of Circle In, keynote speaker, and a passionate advocate for caregivers in the workplace.

Jodi shares her remarkable journey of building (and selling) a global platform that supports working parents and caregivers across life stages – from parental leave to menopause and beyond. We talk about the reality of returning to work after children, what true empathy in leadership looks like, and how burnout can creep up on even the strongest among us.

Jodi opens up about her personal experiences with burnout, the power of vulnerability, and why creating a psychologically safe, family-friendly workplace isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. We also explore how leaders can role model care, build trust through storytelling, and rethink flexibility in a hybrid world.

This is a must-listen for leaders ready to embrace whole-person leadership and for anyone navigating the beautiful, messy juggle of career and caregiving.

🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.

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What if your brand had a signature scent that made clients feel exactly what you wanted them to feel — trust, luxury, energy, nostalgia?

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with doctors-turned-entrepreneurs Suji and Jeeva, co-founders of BrandScent, the game-changing business behind some of Australia’s most memorable branded fragrances. From maternity leave side hustle to Shark Tank and scent tech innovation, their journey blends science, storytelling, and serious startup grit.

We explore how scent influences behaviour, memory, and brand loyalty — and why scent might just be your most powerful (and overlooked) branding tool.

If you’ve ever said, “This place smells like success,” this episode is for you.

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In this episode, we’re excited to feature Matt Jones, the co-founder of Four Pillars Gin, a brand that has redefined the craft gin industry in Australia and beyond.

Join us as we delve into Matt's journey from political advisor to brand strategist, exploring how storytelling and authentic leadership play crucial roles in building a globally recognized brand.

Matt shares valuable insights on:

• The importance of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with customers
• How genuine leadership fosters a culture of brand ownership among employees
• The strategies behind Four Pillars' rise in a crowded market

Whether you’re a leader, a marketer, or simply a gin enthusiast, this episode offers inspiring lessons on connecting with your audience and creating lasting impact. Tune in now to discover how great storytelling can elevate your brand to new heights!

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Are you tired of feeling sluggish, achy and uninspired at work? The solution may lie in embracing micro movements throughout your day. Lizzie Williamson, a former professional dancer and wellness expert, shares her transformative approach to revitalizing the workday through simple, yet powerful bursts of activity.

Lizzie's journey began 15 years ago when she found herself in the grips of postnatal depression. The very activity that had once brought her so much joy - dancing - had become an immense struggle. Determined to reclaim her wellbeing, Lizzie started with the smallest of steps - literally.

"I just kept doing these little plies at my kitchen counter," Lizzie recalls. "Even though my head said it was pointless, there was something about that tiny sense of achievement that kept me going." This simple act of self-care was the catalyst for Lizzie's remarkable transformation and the birth of her global movement.

Lizzie's mission is to inspire a global "active workday revolution," empowering leaders and employees to embrace movement as an integral part of the modern workplace. Her book, "The Active Workday Advantage," provides a roadmap for organizations to implement simple, yet impactful changes.

"The way we're working in this century is not working," Lizzie declares. "It's time to challenge the status quo and create workplaces that prioritize the physical and mental wellbeing of our people."

So, are you ready to unlock your inner pharmacy and revolutionize your workday? Start with a simple micro movement today, and watch the transformation unfold.

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Wellness has become a priority for many in this post COVID world and many of us are more health conscious than ever before and with the rise of the hybrid world of work, wellness is becoming a critical organisational pillar.

We all know that our health is our most important asset and that without this we really have nothing. However are we paying the right type of attention to our health and are we putting the right things into our body. 

We discuss the 6 healthy habits you can easily get into with Dr Matt 

Link to You Tube video https://youtu.be/9Q10BinAuys

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What happens when a family decides to turn plastic waste into stylish, sustainable eyewear? Meet Nik Robinson and his children, who are revolutionising recycling through their brand, Good Citizens.

In this inspiring episode, Nik shares the incredible journey of transforming 600ml plastic bottles into high-quality sunglasses, while involving his entire family - including his kids - in the mission to "untrash the planet". Discover how a simple conversation with his children sparked a business that's not just about making glasses, but about creating meaningful environmental change.

Learn about:

• Turning 100% recycled plastic into fashionable eyewear
• The power of involving kids in entrepreneurial thinking
• Principles of sustainable business
• Innovative approaches to recycling

Perfect for entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and anyone who believes small actions can create big impact.

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As we close out the year, this final episode of Future Fit Leadership brings together the themes and insights that defined our conversations in 2025.

Leadership continues to shift at speed. We are the generation of leaders who guided our people through COVID and are now navigating the rapid rise of AI, technology transformation and changing expectations in the workplace.

This episode reflects on the global perspectives shared by more than 100 leaders across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, and the patterns that emerged again and again. Human centric leadership. Accountability. Energy and wellbeing. Purpose. Courage. Adaptability. And the willingness to learn, unlearn and rethink how we lead.

We also look back at standout moments from guests including Holly Ransom, Michael McQueen, Lisa O’Neill, Dr Michelle McQuaid, Renee Wootton, Scott Millar, Dr Kristy Goodwin, Kate Mason, Victor Perton and Nik Robinson.

Future Fit Leadership will return in February with more global voices and conversations shaping the next era of leadership. Over the break, we will be resharing some of our most impactful episodes from the year.

Tune in to the season finale and reflect with us on what it takes to lead well in a world that continues to change.

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Crisis is rarely the headline. It is the quiet gap between what happens and how leaders respond. And few people understand that gap better than Stephanie Craig, President of Kith, former political insider, and the woman some call the Olivia Pope of crisis communications.

In this conversation, Stephanie takes us from her childhood in the Canadian Arctic to the halls of the US and Canadian Senates, and into the real world moments where reputation, trust, and clarity can make or break a business.

We talk about the biggest mistakes leaders make in the first 24 hours of a crisis, why most organisations still underestimate their stakeholders, and how clarity and trust create strategic speed when it matters most. Stephanie shares practical, human advice for every leader. Build your crisis core team before you need it. Understand who your people are and how they communicate. Know what you stand for when the pressure hits.

This is a conversation about leadership that is calm, conscious, and ready for the world as it truly is.

Please enjoy this episode of Future Fit Leadership with Stephanie Craig.

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In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant and very grounded Jenny Stilwell, a woman who has spent her life helping businesses move from surviving to scaling. Jenny has led companies through complexity, run her own advisory firm, and written the book The 7 Percent Club, which reveals why only a small number of businesses ever grow past two million in revenue.

What I love about Jenny is how honest she is about the messy middle of leadership. She talks about that awkward moment when you step up for the first time and suddenly discover you have no reference point for the role you have just taken on. She shares how founders often choke their own growth by holding onto everything, and how letting go is more like a dance of trust and release than a single decision.

We go deep into the traps that stop businesses from scaling. Complexity that creeps up quietly. Early team members who suddenly find themselves drowning under bigger titles. Capability gaps. Shiny object syndrome. And the hard truth that you cannot grow if you are still operating like the scrappy startup you once were.

Jenny also breaks down why knowing your numbers is not optional. It is the backbone of every decision you make. Margin, ratios, revenue per employee, wage to sales, client insights, operational indicators. She brings it all alive in that way only Jenny can. Practical, plain speaking, and instantly usable.

And of course, she answers our Future Fit Leadership questions. Adaptability. Strategic thinking. Emotional intelligence. And a powerful reminder that AI is shifting the ground under our feet faster than many leaders realise.

This is a conversation packed with clarity, humanity, and a few reassuring laughs about the things we all struggle with. If you are leading a business, scaling a team, or trying to find your footing in a world full of moving parts, you will love Jenny’s wisdom.

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What does leadership look like in a world where robots inspect our infrastructure, AI shapes our healthcare, and automation transforms entire industries?

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Dr Sue Keay, one of Australia’s leading voices in robotics, AI ethics and the future of work. Sue began her career as a geologist before moving into robotics and commercialisation, eventually leading major national initiatives in robotic vision and cyber physical systems.

We discuss Australia’s unexpected global strengths in field robotics, from automated ports to autonomous mining vehicles, and why we risk losing our competitive edge if we continue to export our best talent.

Sue shares her perspective on AI adoption in Australian workplaces, the growing divide between early adopters and those resistant to change, and why AI literacy is becoming a non-negotiable leadership capability.

We also explore ethical accountability in AI systems, the importance of keeping humans in the loop, and how robotics can support climate resilience, disaster response and personalised healthcare.

And in a powerful discussion on diversity in STEM, Sue speaks candidly about structural barriers for women in technology and why future systems must be shaped by diverse voices.

Her three words for a future fit leader? Curious, kind and authentic.

This is a practical, forward-looking conversation for leaders navigating rapid technological change and wanting to stay ahead of what’s coming next.

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When the FBI knocked on Kevin McCarthy’s door one morning in 2002, everything he thought he knew about integrity, loyalty, and trust shattered. What followed was a federal conviction for a crime he didn’t mean to commit, spending 33 months in prison that changed his life forever.

In this deeply human conversation, Kevin shares how good people can make bad choices, what blind spots really look like in leadership, and how to rebuild your life and your sense of self when everything falls apart. From the moment the FBI entered his home to the lessons learned behind prison walls, Kevin’s story is one of self-awareness, humility, and the power of owning our mistakes.

He reminds us that leadership isn’t about perfection it’s about perspective. It’s about learning to see what we once couldn’t, and finding integrity in the space between moral intent and legal reality.

This is a conversation about humanity, not hierarchy. Please enjoy this powerful story with Kevin McCarthy.

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What makes a leader truly future fit in a world where AI can attend your meetings, interview your staff, and even write your next LinkedIn post?

In this lively and thought-provoking conversation, futurist and best-selling author Michael McQueen joins Sadhana Smiles to unpack what it really means to stay relevant, human, and adaptable as technology reshapes the way we lead and work.

They explore everything from Gen Z’s reluctance to take on leadership roles, to why “culture is caught, not taught,” and how real trust is built in a world full of deepfakes and digital avatars. Michael shares why the best leaders of tomorrow will blend confidence, conviction, and curiosity — and how to lead with both head and heart in the age of AI.

Please enjoy this conversation with the insightful and always entertaining Michael McQueen.

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Monica Bradley’s career has been anything but conventional — spanning trade, logistics, government, technology, and impact investing. In this Future Fit Leadership conversation, she shares how curiosity, contribution, and courage shaped her path from regional Queensland to boardrooms across the globe.

Monica unpacks her mantra of growth without compromise which is a bold philosophy that challenges leaders to build organisations that drive profit, purpose, and planetary health in equal measure.

From redefining value in the economy to reimagining how we lead through uncertainty, Monica brings deep wisdom and an infectious optimism for what’s next.

Monica Bradley is a strategist, changemaker, and proud champion of curiosity, creativity, and kindness in leadership.

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George Haros and Deivina Peethamparam from Gadens Lawyers join me to explore one of the fastest-evolving frontiers in leadership — psychological and psychosocial safety.

They unpack what today’s laws demand from leaders, where most organisations fall short, and why emotional intelligence now matters as much as compliance. From trust and vulnerability to reproductive health and hybrid workplaces, this conversation gets real about what it takes to build teams that hum — safe, connected, and human.

🎧 Listen in for legal insights, lived experience, and practical tools every leader needs to create workplaces where people thrive — not just survive.

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At 26, Lisa O’Neill’s body gave out before her mind did. What followed was a radical reset, a crash course in energy, healing, and self-awareness that would shape everything she teaches today.

In this conversation, Lisa shares the story behind Energy: Get It. Guard It. Give It., and what it really means to manage energy, not time. From adrenal fatigue to four children and nine books later, she has built a life around purpose, colour, and courage  teaching leaders to stop leaking energy, start leading themselves, and live with intention.

Lisa also opens up about her early life in fashion, the psychology of colour, and the powerful shift that happens when women stop minimising themselves and step fully into who they are.

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Leaders are contagious. That is where Michelle McQuaid begins. In this episode we explore how a leader’s state shapes a team’s energy, focus, courage and care, and why self compassion is not a soft option but a competitive advantage. Michelle is a positive psychology expert, best-selling author and LinkedIn Top 10 mental health voice who blends evidence with lived experience. Her latest book, The Perfectly Imperfect Little Girl, unpacks how good girl conditioning still nudges women’s confidence, decisions and leadership, and offers practical ways to lead with authenticity and resilience. We talk secure attachment to self, real psychosocial safety, burnout signals, and the simple habits that steady your nervous system in seasons of change. If you want your team to think clearly and thrive under pressure, this conversation is for you. Please enjoy my exchange with Michelle McQuaid.

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Catherine Fox AM has spent her career asking tough questions about leadership and even tougher ones about the systems that shape it.

An award-winning journalist, author, and former editor at Boss Magazine, Catherine has spent decades reporting on power, progress, and the invisible barriers that hold people back. In this conversation, she shares what she’s learned about leadership from the newsroom to the boardroom  from myths that refuse to die, to the moments that redefine what real leadership looks like.

We explore the themes from her bestselling books Stop Fixing Women, Seven Myths About Women & Work, and Breaking the Boss Bias and why she believes we’re overdue for a new conversation about power, bias, and what makes a truly self-aware leader.

Catherine was bought to you by Saxton Speakers  - https://www.saxton.com.au/speakers/catherine-fox

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What does it take to keep your energy high, lead through change, and stay future fit in a world that never stops moving?

In this conversation, Josh Phegan shares the lessons he learned from growing up surrounded by books and cassette tapes of Zig Ziglar and Brian Tracy, through to becoming one of the most recognised performance coaches in our industry. We talk about confidence as a skill you can build, why feedback works best “in the car on the way back from an appointment,” and how leaders can avoid burnout by managing energy, not time.

Josh also unpacks his five–step change management process, his rituals for keeping strategy front and centre, and why excellence isn’t a lofty concept but something you practice in every single moment.

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From a pineapple farm on Kubi Kubi country to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Renee Wooton’s journey is anything but ordinary. A proud First Nations aerospace engineer, leader in sustainable aviation fuel, and Boss Young Executive, Renee has faced adversity with grit, curiosity, and courage.

In this conversation, she shares her story of resilience, breaking barriers in STEM, and how Indigenous wisdom is shaping her leadership philosophy today. We talk about belonging, cultural strength, sustainability, and the future of aviation.

Renee’s message is clear: leadership is about staying true to your values, expanding the room for others, and building a future where people, planet, and purpose are in balance.

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Steve Griffith has spent three decades helping elite athletes and hard-charging executives perform without burning out. In this conversation we unpack why stress is the quiet saboteur of leadership, and why meditation is not a fad but a recovery tool that gives you rest deeper than sleep in just 20 minutes. Steve shares how his six month holistic leadership program builds self leadership, one on one relationships, and accountable teams, and why change only sticks when it is practised, coached, and measured. We talk about the hour of power, staying above the line, integrity with yourself, and what it takes to scale wellbeing across construction sites, local councils, and fast moving real estate teams. We look ahead to a future where self awareness, values, and inner resilience are non negotiable for leaders. Forget the app. Close your eyes. Please enjoy this conversation.

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Domestic violence is not a fringe issue. It is not a private matter. And it is not someone else’s problem.

In this episode, I sit down with family lawyer Cassandra Kalpaxis for a direct and deeply confronting conversation about domestic and family violence in Australia. Cassandra shares that in her practice, around 95 percent of her cases now involve domestic violence. Not always physical. Often invisible. Coercive control. Financial abuse. Psychological harm that slowly strips away identity and autonomy.

We discuss the warning signs many people miss, what meaningful support actually looks like, and why pressure can push survivors further into danger rather than towards safety. We explore where our systems are falling short, from policing to prevention, and the accountability that sits not just with government, but with workplaces, leaders, communities and men.

As International Women’s Day calls us to Balance the Scale, this episode asks a harder question. Where are we still failing? And what responsibility do we each carry to change it?

If you need support, confidential help is available through 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.

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From high school entrepreneur to CEO of one of Australia’s fastest-growing companies, Scott Millar has never played by the rules. Nicknamed the “Teenage Entrepreneur” by the media, Scott turned down the traditional career path to build a business that helps organisations connect with Gen Z and future generations.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, Scott shares how curiosity, courage, and creativity have shaped his journey. We talk about why Gen Z leaders are rewriting the playbook, what it means to thrive in a world of constant change, and why the best leaders of tomorrow will be those who aren’t afraid to rewrite the rules today.

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What if you only had 4000 Sundays in your lifetime? And what if the way you work today is quietly stealing them away?

In this conversation, Dr Kristy Goodwin takes us inside her own life-altering wake-up call — a moment in a Code Red hospital ward that forced her to confront burnout, mortality, and the “success tax” so many high performers pay.

Kristy shares why our bodies keep score, how to stop crawling to Friday and start arriving at Sunday fully alive, and why protecting your focus, energy, and relationships is non-negotiable if you want to lead into the future.

This is not just about wellbeing, it’s about the kind of leaders we choose to become — human-first, sustainable, and fiercely intentional.

🎧 Listen now and ask yourself: how many Sundays do you have left, and how do you want to spend them?

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Kate Mason’s leadership journey is anything but ordinary. From touring with Paul McCartney to leading culture and transformation across global giants like Coca-Cola Amatil, Amcor, and Credit Suisse, Kate has sat at the biggest tables — and now she’s rewriting the rules of leadership with her business, Social Value.

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, Kate shares powerful lessons on building diverse CEO pipelines, moving from performative to purposeful leadership, and why culture is more than words on a wall. She opens up about the personal cost of leadership, her lived experience as a lifelong carer, and the insights she brings to helping leaders balance performance with purpose.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with heart, avoid the traps of burnout, and create real social impact — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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What does it take to lead with impact when the world won’t stop changing?

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Holly Ransom — author of The Leading Edge, global speaker, and one of Australia’s boldest leadership voices.

Holly shares the lessons that shaped her, from her grandmother’s courage in standing up for others to the mantra that if you “walk past it, you tell the world it’s okay.” We talk about why method — not mindset — is the biggest gap in leadership, why mattering at work transforms culture, and why adaptability, courage, and curiosity will define the leaders of the future.

A sharp, energising conversation with insights from Holly’s own journey and her conversations with leaders like Barack Obama and Richard Branson.

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What if optimism wasn’t just a personal trait, but a leadership strategy?

In this Spotlight episode, we’re joined by Victor Perton, founder and Chief Optimism Officer at the Centre for Optimism. Victor shares why declining optimism is one of the greatest public policy challenges of our time — and why the leaders of the future must be “magnetic optimists.”

He unpacks what it means to lead with infectious energy, how optimism builds trust, resilience, and innovation, and why every CEO should be asking their teams: “What makes you optimistic?”

A joyful, compelling conversation for every leader who wants to shape a better future — by starting with belief.

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In this Spotlight episode, Michelle Redfern calls on leaders to take radical accountability — not just for results, but for developing people.

She shares why skills are the defining currency of the future, why too many leaders still overlook talent development, and how inclusive workplace design can unlock untapped potential.

From leadership brand to business intelligence, Michelle breaks down her BQ-EQ-SQ model and challenges leaders to lead with intention, integrity, and a clear sense of purpose.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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Nik Robinson, founder of purpose-led brand Good Citizens, joins us for this episode of the Future Fit Spotlight series. Known for turning plastic waste into stylish, 100% recycled sunglasses—and doing it alongside his two young sons—Nik brings an honest, refreshing take on what it really means to lead with purpose, courage, and collaboration.

In this candid conversation, Nik shares why vulnerability is a superpower, how his kids challenge him to think differently, and why the best leadership doesn’t come from the top down—it comes from listening deeply, embracing discomfort, and staying curious.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, demographer and social researcher Ashly Fell explores how generational change is reshaping the workforce—and what leaders need to do about it. From Gen Z’s expectations of purpose and flexibility to the future of workplace culture and trust, Ashly brings a fresh, data-backed lens to leadership. If you’re managing multi-gen teams or designing culture for the future, this conversation is essential listening.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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Michelle Loader is the Managing Director of Future Leadership — an organisation shaping the future of board and executive capability in Australia. In this Spotlight episode, Michelle shares the three traits she believes are essential for future-fit leaders, the underestimated risks and opportunities of AI, and why empathy is now a business-critical skill. It’s a grounded and insightful conversation about what it takes to lead with humanity, clarity, and courage in a fast-changing world.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, futurist and workforce expert Ben Hamer shares what it takes to lead in a rapidly changing world. From the underestimated power of curiosity to the rise of Gen Z in the workforce, Ben challenges outdated assumptions and urges leaders to prioritise adaptability, energy over time, and human connection.

This short conversation is packed with forward-thinking insights—from managing energy instead of hours, to rethinking what younger generations value most at work.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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In this solo episode of Future Fit Leadership, Sadhana Smiles steps into the conversation herself.

 In this special International Women’s Day episode of Future Fit Leadership, Sadhana Smiles offers a candid reflection on the 2026 theme Balance the Scale and what it means in the world we are navigating today.

For several years, Sadhana stepped back from celebrating International Women’s Day, not because progress has not been made, but because progress has not moved fast enough.

In Australia, one woman a week is killed through domestic and family violence. Women retire with significantly less superannuation than men, and older women are the fastest growing cohort experiencing homelessness.

If balance is the goal, it suggests something remains out of alignment.

This episode explores the role leaders play in correcting that imbalance through policy, culture and accountability.

Because balance is not symbolic. It is structural. And it requires action.

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What if leadership wasn’t about being the loudest in the room — but the most human?

In this episode, Penny Locaso, behavioural scientist and founder of the Impact Makers movement, shares a bold vision for the future of leadership — one built on compassion, long-term thinking, and women leading unapologetically on their own terms.

Penny challenges traditional leadership models and explains why the next era of leaders must stop asking for permission and start defining success by impact, not ego. If you’ve ever questioned how leadership should feel — this conversation will shift your thinking.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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What if the best leaders of the future aren’t the ones with all the answers — but the ones who ask better questions?

In this episode of our Future Fit Spotlight series, trusted advisor and business strategist Michelle Broadbent reflects on the leadership qualities we’ll need most in the decade ahead: adaptability, empathy, and a clear, distraction-proof strategy.

Michelle shares why we must shift from being the “expert in the room” to the enabler of others, and why redefining success — away from hustle and towards purpose — is not just a trend, but a necessity.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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In a world where change is accelerating faster than ever, what does it take to lead with clarity and courage?

Urban futurist and co-founder of Neighbourlytics, Lucinda Hartley, joins the Future Fit Leadership Spotlight to explore why curiosity, flexibility, and authenticity will define tomorrow’s leaders. She shares how speed is reshaping leadership, why perfection is holding us back, and what it means to lead with momentum — even when we don’t have all the answers.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of change, Lucinda offers a refreshing take on how to stay relevant, responsive, and human.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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What happens when our technology evolves faster than we do? In this episode, strategic advisor and ethical business advocate Elliott Dellys reflects on the future of leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Elliott shares why visionary thinking, resilience, and empathy aren’t just desirable leadership traits — they’re essential for navigating misinformation, rebuilding trust, and leading with purpose in an age of disruption. He also unpacks the role of adaptability, ethical business, and creating a legacy that goes beyond profit.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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In this episode of our Future Fit Leadership Spotlight series, we hear from Dr Marianne Broadbent, global executive advisor, board director, and leadership educator.

Marianne shares what it means to lead with a growth mindset, why we must become  more comfortable with ambiguity, and how the rapid rise of geopolitical disruption is catching many leaders off guard.

She also reflects on the power of calm leadership, the importance of staying curious, and why taking accountability with empathy will be one of the most essential leadership qualities in the decade ahead.

This is a quick yet powerful conversation with one of Australia’s most respected voices on leadership and governance.

🎧 Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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What does it really take to lead in a way that inspires trust, creativity, and collaboration? In this episode of our Future Fit Spotlight series, award-winning leadership and mindset specialist Tanja Lee shares why coherence—being in balance emotionally, mentally, and physically—is the essential leadership quality for the decade ahead.

From the neuroscience of stress to creating cultures of innovation, Tanja offers powerful insights on how leaders can shift out of survival mode and into sustainable, purpose-driven influence.

Part of our limited Future Fit Spotlight series — four questions, fresh perspectives, and leadership insights that stay with you.

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Right now, 735 million people face hunger and one in three of the world’s population is malnourished. But the global food crisis is  the ‘elephant in the room’ - too often ignored in political discussions and in the media.

It's a climate crisis, a conflict crisis, and a cost-of-living crisis: it demands a massive and joined-up global response that is currently lacking.

In a bid to meet the UN’s second Sustainable Development Goal (SDG2) of zero hunger by 2030, one campaign is asking you to eat more beans. Its argument? Beans are cheap, long-lasting, nutritious, versatile, planet-friendly, and ubiquitous.

Paul Newnham is the executive director of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub, which campaigns to achieve the UN's goal of ending hunger by 2030. 

I promise you this podcast will get you reaching out for more beans in your next supermarket shop 

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Karen Maher, an expert in workplace safety and culture, discusses the critical importance of building safe and inclusive workplaces. Maher shares her background, having experienced workplace harassment and bullying early in her career, which motivated her to specialise in this field.

Maher emphasises that the impact of poor workplace behaviors, such as bullying and harassment, can be devastating, both for the individuals directly affected as well as the broader organization. She highlights common misconceptions, such as the belief that intent matters more than the actual impact of the behavior. Maher stresses that organizations have a duty of care to address these issues proactively, rather than reactively.

The discussion covers the concept of "psychosocial safety" - the need to ensure not just physical safety, but also psychological safety in the workplace. Maher outlines key elements that organizations should consider when developing anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies, such as clear definitions, reporting mechanisms, and support systems for affected employees.

Maher also emphasizes the critical role of leadership in setting the tone and modeling the desired behaviors. She shares success stories of organizations that have transformed their cultures by prioritizing respect, education, and a strong speak-up culture.

Looking to the future, Maher anticipates increased regulatory scrutiny and prosecution of organizations that fail to provide safe workplaces, particularly around psychosocial hazards. She encourages businesses to be proactive in addressing these issues, rather than waiting for something to go wrong.

Overall, the interview highlights the significant impact that workplace bullying and harassment can have, and the importance of organizations taking a comprehensive, preventative approach to building safe, inclusive, and high-performing work environments.

To find out more https://www.karenmaher.com.au/

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, we welcome David Knoff, Antarctic station leader and author of 537 Days of Winter. David’s journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and the sheer mental fortitude required to lead a team through unprecedented isolation and extreme conditions. From managing resources and morale to navigating the mental toll of Antarctica's harsh environment—compounded by an unexpected pandemic lockdown—David shares powerful insights on crisis leadership and what it takes to keep a team motivated in the world’s most remote and challenging location.

Tune in for a unique conversation that delves into leadership, resilience, and the art of maintaining hope and connection, even when you’re far from home.

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Elliott Dellys — founder and CEO of Phronesis, Australia’s first B Corp-certified cybersecurity firm. A former intelligence officer turned entrepreneur, Elliott is leading a very different kind of security conversation — one grounded not just in technology, but in ethics, leadership, and culture.

Elliott believes cybersecurity is ultimately a people problem — and that the biggest risks we face aren’t just digital, they’re deeply human. From the rise of AI-powered cybercrime to the flawed systems that leave organisations vulnerable, this conversation goes far beyond firewalls.

We explore:

• Why groupthink is one of the most dangerous threats inside modern organisations

• How fear, conformity, and poor leadership compromise security and innovation

• The myth of “hacking” — and what most businesses get wrong about risk

• What it means to build a values-driven company in an industry obsessed with fear

• His bold take on why Australia won’t meet its 2030 cybersecurity goals — and what real progress would look like

Elliott also shares why he donates 10% of profits to social impact, why he built Phronesis around the Greek word for “practical wisdom,” and how philosophy remains his greatest leadership tool.

This is a conversation about courage, systems thinking, and the urgent need for leaders who can think beyond compliance — and lead with conscience.

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Phillip Heath, Head of Barker College, to explore what it truly means to lead a school community in a rapidly changing world.

With more than three decades in education, Phillip shares his vision for future-ready learning — one that goes beyond academic results to shape young people of character, courage and compassion. We talk about digital literacy, global citizenship, Indigenous partnerships, and the role schools play in preparing students not just for work, but for life.

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation centres on bullying - how it shows up in modern school environments, the impact of social media, and the responsibility leaders carry in creating cultures where every student feels safe, known and valued. Phillip speaks candidly about the need for proactive leadership, strong community partnerships, and embedding respect as a lived practice, not just a policy.

This is a thoughtful and timely conversation about education, responsibility, and the kind of leadership our young people need now more than ever.

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What if your brand had a signature scent that made clients feel exactly what you wanted them to feel — trust, luxury, energy, nostalgia?

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with doctors-turned-entrepreneurs Suji and Jeeva, co-founders of BrandScent, the game-changing business behind some of Australia’s most memorable branded fragrances. From maternity leave side hustle to Shark Tank and scent tech innovation, their journey blends science, storytelling, and serious startup grit.

We explore how scent influences behaviour, memory, and brand loyalty — and why scent might just be your most powerful (and overlooked) branding tool.

If you’ve ever said, “This place smells like success,” this episode is for you.

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Sami Makelainen is a global tech expert who’s worked across Finland, North America, and Australia.

With a background in computer science and a passion for understanding how technology shapes society, Sami brings a uniquely human perspective to some of the most complex conversations in tech today.

In this conversation we discuss:

 The erosion of critical thinking in the age of AI
 Why we should treat AI like a brand-new intern, not a CEO
 Shadow AI, organisational risk, and how culture is being reshaped
 Quantum computing, ethical tech, and the futures we're not planning for

This is more than just a conversation about emerging technology.
It’s a deep, honest look at how AI is changing leadership, communication, and the decisions that shape our world.

Get ready for a conversation that will challenge your assumptions, stretch your thinking, and reveal why the next decade may be the most transformative in human history.

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In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Jodi Geddes – co-founder of Circle In, keynote speaker, and a passionate advocate for caregivers in the workplace.

Jodi shares her remarkable journey of building (and selling) a global platform that supports working parents and caregivers across life stages – from parental leave to menopause and beyond. We talk about the reality of returning to work after children, what true empathy in leadership looks like, and how burnout can creep up on even the strongest among us.

Jodi opens up about her personal experiences with burnout, the power of vulnerability, and why creating a psychologically safe, family-friendly workplace isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. We also explore how leaders can role model care, build trust through storytelling, and rethink flexibility in a hybrid world.

This is a must-listen for leaders ready to embrace whole-person leadership and for anyone navigating the beautiful, messy juggle of career and caregiving.

🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.

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What does it mean to decolonise the health system? How do we shift from a system that wasn’t built for First Nations communities to one that recognises, respects, and integrates Indigenous knowledge and leadership?

In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Ngaree Blow, a proud First Nations woman and a leader in public health, medical education, and Indigenous health advocacy. We explore her journey into medicine, the challenges she faced as an Indigenous medical student, and the systemic barriers that continue to impact First Nations health outcomes.

Dr. Blow shares her vision for a healthcare system that is truly inclusive, where Indigenous ways of healing are valued, where representation in leadership drives better policy, and where First Nations communities no longer face the same health inequities that have existed for generations.

We also discuss It’s a Mob Thing, her grassroots initiative that empowers Indigenous communities through culture and storytelling, and the upcoming It’s a Mob Thing Festival in Geelong on March 15.

This conversation is about leadership, systemic change, and the power of representation. If we want a better, more equitable future, we need to start by listening to those who are leading the change.

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