Through conversation with industry greats, experts and innovators from around the world, GovComms delivers the latest insights and best practice in government c...
EP#174: Trust, Humour and Bureaucracy: The Secret Sauce of Gov Social Media
Governments generate endless information, but so much of it goes unseen. So, how do we turn it into content people actually care about?In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke chats with Heather Lansdowne, a leader in transforming social media in government. As the social media manager at the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Heather and her team are turning heads in the government space, proving that data can be engaging, relatable, and even fun. She’s helped reshape how agencies communicate, bringing bold ideas and engaging content to the table. Her fresh approach connects with audiences in ways traditional comms never could.From navigating government approvals to making stats go viral, Heather shares how agencies can rethink their content strategy. She talks about building trust with leadership, using humour to engage audiences, and why governments need to act more like digital publishers. Whether you're a social media pro or a government communicator looking to push boundaries, this episode is full of insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you create content that truly connects.Discussed in this episode:Making government content engaging by turning reports into stories.Building trust with leadership to get buy-in for social strategies.Using humour to make statistics fun and relatable.Navigating approvals while staying compliant.Exploring social media trends in government.Showcasing ABS’s social media success.Show notes:Data Release Calendar | ABSGraphic Design App | CanvaSocial media | ABSGovComms Podcast | BlogTranscript:A transcript of this episode can be found here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP#173: Public Sector Content: Effective Strategies and Storytelling Tips
Buckle up for an episode packed with creativity, innovation, and a bit of storytelling magic!In this first GovComms Podcast of 2025, David Pembroke sits down with Andrew Parsons, a communication powerhouse with a knack for turning challenges into storytelling gold. From his humble beginnings as a cameraman to transforming public sector communication strategies, Andrew’s career is proof that creativity thrives when bold ideas meet action.Step into the evolving world of public sector content as Andrew reveals how he built massive social media followings, pioneered video content, and ran communication teams like newsrooms—fast, fearless, and focused. He’ll also share why 2025 is the year for governments to embrace new technology, leverage podcasts, and connect with citizens like never before.Packed with practical tips and fresh perspectives, this episode will leave you inspired to level up your content strategy.Discussed in this episode:Turning challenges into powerful stories.Why 2025 is the perfect time to rethink your content strategy.The secret to building trust and support for bold communication ideas.Running comms teams like newsrooms—speed and creativity in action.Andrew’s journey from behind the camera to leading communication innovation.Show notes:Water’s Edge – The Podcast | IGWCGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Encore EP#153: Communication that drives climate action
Today, we’re revisiting one of the most impactful episodes of GovComms! Stephanie Speck, Head of Communications for the Green Climate Fund, shares how authentic storytelling can transform the climate conversation.Explore the power of "Story Sovereignty," a revolutionary approach that empowers climate-impacted communities to tell their own stories—humanising the issue and making it deeply relatable. Stephanie also takes us inside the Green Climate Fund’s evolution, shifting from output-focused tactics to strategies that prioritise reputation, relationships, and global impact.She doesn’t stop there. Tackling the challenge of misinformation, Stephanie reveals practical ways to counter false narratives, build trust, and foster consensus in the fight against climate change. Whether it’s your first listen or a revisit, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire meaningful climate communication.Discussed in this episode:Co-designing climate strategiesLeveraging AI for efficiencyAddressing misinformation challengesBuilding trust through transparencyEmpowering authentic storytellingStrengthening stakeholder collaborationShow notes:Stephanie Speck | LinkedInGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Encore EP#161: Storytelling for social media success
Happy New Year! We’re starting 2025 by revisiting an inspiring chat between host David Pembroke and Stanley Henry, founder of The Attention Seeker. They discuss storytelling, strategy, and building a thriving content agency.Stanley takes us on his journey from growing up in South Auckland and working in hospitality worldwide to becoming a LinkedIn success story. His mastery of personal branding on the platform gave him the confidence to launch his own agency, which now boasts a team of 31 and is gearing up to expand to New York.He shares invaluable lessons on storytelling and social media strategy, offering practical tips on engaging audiences across platforms. Drawing from his hospitality background, Stanley reveals how those experiences shaped his leadership and business growth.This episode is packed with advice on creating authentic brand messages, balancing internal and client content, and embracing strategic storytelling to thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape. Stanley also reflects on the evolution of his business and the exciting future ahead.Discussed in this episode:Using LinkedIn strategicallyAuthentic storytelling techniquesTailoring content by platformAligning brands with human truthsDriving business growth strategicallyShow notes:Stanley Henry | LinkedInThe Attention Seeker | TikTokThe Attention Seeker | WebsiteGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EP#172: The unmissable moments of 2024
What did 2024 teach us about communicating better? In this special 'Year in Review' episode, David Pembroke takes us through the stories, lessons, and ideas that made this year unforgettable. From LinkedIn storytelling tips with Stanley Henry to tackling climate anxiety with Ruth Dewsbury, this episode revisits the moments that made us think and grow. You’ll hear how behavioural science is transforming public health. What the Olympics can teach us about connection, and why Alex Aiken’s 'five Vs' framework might just change the way you approach your next big message. Packed with practical advice and case studies, this episode is a journey through the best of GovComms in 2024. It’s insightful, relatable, and a must-listen for anyone passionate about making communication meaningful. Tune in to reflect, learn, and get ready for an even brighter 2025!Discussed in this episode:Storytelling and reframing mindsetsBuilding resilience and growthBehavioral nudges in public healthAddressing climate anxiety in communicationsAI challenges in government messagingModern communication frameworksShow notes:GovComms Ep #161 | Stanley HenryGovComms Ep #156 | Mardi StewartGovComms Ep #165 | Sharon RosenrauchGovComms Ep #151 | Ruth DewsburyGovComms Ep #160 | Dr. Nathan Borgford-ParnellGovComms Ep #157 | Strath GordonGovComms Ep #159 | Jennifer MuirGovComms Ep #150 | Alex AikenGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
About GovComms: The Future of Government Communication
Through conversation with industry greats, experts and innovators from around the world, GovComms delivers the latest insights and best practice in government communication. We provide the resources to help you, the government and public sector, communicate policies, services and regulations with impact. A podcast by contentgroup, leaders in government communication.Watch our episodes in video on contentgroup's YouTube channel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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