GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

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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.

  1. EP#193: Building KPIs leaders can trust with Stacey Barr

    3 days ago

    EP#193: Building KPIs leaders can trust with Stacey Barr

    Measurement should make our work clearer, not harder. Host David Pembroke is joined by Stacey Barr, a specialist in organisational performance, measurement and evidence-based leadership, to unpack why evaluation still feels elusive in government, even when toolkits and frameworks are readily available. They discuss the hidden “missing pieces” that undermine many measurement approaches, how to strip out vague “weasel words” from strategy, and how Stacey’s PuMP methodology helps teams define results, identify credible evidence, and report performance in a way that supports better decisions. The conversation also explores the role of leadership, the reality of public accountability pressures, and where AI can (and cannot) help. KEY POINTS - Start with results, not activity: Be clear about the outcome you want to improve before you decide what to measure, otherwise you end up tracking busywork instead of impact. - De-weasel your strategy language: Replace vague terms such as “quality”, “transparency” or “diversity” with plain, specific wording that everyone can interpret the same way. - Define evidence before choosing measures: Ask what you would see, hear or observe that proves progress, then work out how to quantify that evidence. - Report performance to reveal real signals: Move beyond traffic-light reporting and focus on patterns that show meaningful change, so you don’t overreact to noise or miss early warnings. - Tie initiatives directly to the KPI they shift: Keep actions and results connected, so you can prove whether an initiative actually closed a performance gap. SHOW NOTES: ●     PuMP® (Performance Measurement Process): Stacey Barr’s practical methodology for performance measurement mentioned in the episode https://www.pump.academy/ ●     Practical Performance Measurement (book): Book by Stacey Barr mentioned in the episode https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Practical+Performance+Measurement+Stacey+Barr ●     Prove It! (book): Book by Stacey Barr mentioned in the episode https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Prove+It%21+Stacey+Barr ●     Australia Centre for Evaluation (ACE): Australian Government evaluation initiative mentioned (including toolkit/library resources) https://www.pmc.gov.au/resources/australia-centre-evaluation ●     Harvard Business Review (website): Stacey notes her content has appeared on HBR’s website https://hbr.org/ ●     ManageMentor (platform): Program Stacey describes as featuring her content https://www.managementmentor.com/ ●     OKR Institute: Organisation mentioned in relation to the OKR Institute World Summit https://okrinstitute.org/ ●     Objectives and Key Results (OKR) framework: Framework explicitly referenced (“OKRs, objectives and key results”) https://www.whatmatters.com/faqs/okr-meaning-definition-example/ ●     State Library of South Australia: Organisation cited in Stacey’s case example https://www.slsa.sa.gov.au/ ●     Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Organisation cited in Stacey’s case example https://www.faa.gov/ ●    info@PuMP.academy: Email Stacey provides for arranging a “discovery discussion” mailto:info@pump.academy If you enjoyed this podcast then please:    ●     Follow, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts ●     Follow and rate on Spotify ●     Watch our videos on the GovComms YouTube page ●     Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram! The GovComms Institute podcast is produced by contentgroup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  2. EP#192: When AI moves faster than truth — with Sree Srinivasan

    28 May

    EP#192: When AI moves faster than truth — with Sree Srinivasan

    When technology speeds up, trust and truth are put under pressure. Host David Pembroke is joined by Sree Srinivasan, who reflects on what he learnt broadcasting daily from New York during the early days of Covid, and how those lessons apply to today’s AI-driven information environment. They discuss what consistent, two-way communication can achieve in a crisis, why misinformation spreads so easily, and the risks of leaving AI decisions to a handful of powerful companies. Sree also shares practical guidance on building AI strategy and policy inside organisations, with an emphasis on transparency, staff input and regular review.     KEY POINTS  - Consistency builds trust: Turning up at the same time every day helped create a reliable source of information people could return to during uncertainty.  - Two-way communication matters: Making space for audience questions and comments improved clarity, relevance and engagement.  - AI policy needs shared ownership: Don’t leave it to tech teams alone; involve the whole organisation and build guidance people will actually use.  - Plan for constant change: AI tools and risks evolve quickly, so policies and governance need frequent review, not set-and-forget documents.  - Use AI to lift quality, not just cut costs: The best use cases focus on improving work and capability, rather than simply reducing headcount.  FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SREE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sreenivasanSubstack: https://sreenet.substack.com/Sree's Presentation: https://bit.ly/sreeaibrochureNYTReadalong: https://www.digimentors.group/nytreadalong LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST: StreamYard: Live-streaming tool Sree used to broadcast across multiple platforms https://streamyard.com/ Don’t Look Up (Netflix): Film Sree referenced as an analogy for ignoring looming crises  Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC): Organisation Sree mentions running a workshop with Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI): Institute referenced (Fei-Fei Li) Columbia Journalism School: Institution Sree mentions teaching at Stony Brook University: Institution Sree mentions teaching at Sebastian Mallaby: Author referenced (book about Demis Hassabis mentioned)  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  3. EP#191: Storytelling for trust in the AI era

    1 May

    EP#191: Storytelling for trust in the AI era

    Government comms has shifted from crafting messages to shaping meaning in a fast-moving digital world. Host David Pembroke is joined by Brenda Duran, director of external affairs at LA County’s Justice Care and Opportunities Department, to reflect on what has changed since they last spoke in 2019. They discuss the COVID-19-driven digital acceleration, the rise of direct-to-public communication, and how misinformation has become a high-volume, targeted threat. Brenda also shares practical approaches to faster approvals, building trusted messenger networks, and creating content that earns attention, before looking ahead to why storytelling and public trust matter even more in an AI-shaped environment. KEY POINTS:COVID-19 accelerated digital government for good Government teams had to pivot quickly to virtual briefings, real-time updates and direct-to-public channels, permanently changing how service information is delivered.Treat misinformation as a trust and security problem Countering false narratives now requires proactive “pre-bunking”, real-time monitoring and partnerships with trusted community messengers, not just reactive corrections.Fix approval bottlenecks by redesigning decision rights Define preauthorised “lanes” for routine updates, rapid approvals and high-risk crisis content so teams can move at the speed of public need.Act like a publisher, not a noticeboard Build weekly content plans, create evergreen explainers, use subject matter experts on camera, and turn government data into meaningful stories people can use.In an AI-driven world, storytelling becomes the differentiator As content volume increases, trust becomes scarcer—public sector communicators add value by creating narratives that restore context, clarity and humanity. Links mentioned in the podcast:AMEC Barcelona Principles: Measurement principles for communication (outputs, outtakes, outcomes) https://amecorg.com/barcelona-principles-3-0/AMEC (International Association for the Measurement and Evaluation of Communication): Organisation behind the Barcelona Principles and comms measurement resources https://amecorg.com/Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture (edited by Melissa Vela-Williamson): Book mentioned (Brenda Duran contributed) https://www.routledge.com/Latinas-in-Public-Relations-Shaping-Communications-Communities-and-Culture/Vela-Williamson/p/book/9781032547805 If you enjoyed this podcast then please:Follow, rate, and review on Apple PodcastsFollow and rate on SpotifyWatch our videos on the GovComms YouTube pageConnect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram! The GovComms Institute podcast is produced by contentgroup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
  4. EP#190: Act to Decide — Why Governments Need to Act on AI Now

    2 Apr

    EP#190: Act to Decide — Why Governments Need to Act on AI Now

    Governments cannot afford to keep talking about AI as a future challenge when citizens are already expecting better, faster, and more human-centred services. In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke speaks with Pete Williams (Chief Edge Officer at Deloitte) about why the real risk is not moving too fast, but moving too slowly. Together, they explore how AI can help government shift from clunky documents and static websites to conversational, accessible and practical service delivery. From internal capability and leadership to chatbots and global examples, this episode is a clear-eyed look at what government needs to do next and why the right time to act is now. #GovComms #AI #government #communication #Deloitte Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  5. EP#189: The “So What” Problem — Turning Numbers into Insight (and Action)

    13 Feb

    EP#189: The “So What” Problem — Turning Numbers into Insight (and Action)

    Governments are full of data, but it’s insight that drives real change. In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke joins Garrett Tyler-Parker, Director of Analysis and Insights at Tourism Research Australia. Together, they break down how good research transforms spreadsheets into strategy. Garrett shares why formative research should shape a campaign from the start, how human stories give meaning to dashboards, and what’s changing fast as mobility data and AI enter the mix. Find out how to make evidence easier to understand, harder to ignore, and far more useful for the people who need to act on it.  Key Points Insight beats information: government (and tourism) are awash with data, but the real job is turning the ‘what’ into the ‘so what’Start research early: use formative research to shape the campaign, rather than using it to evaluate afterBlend big data with human context: numbers show patterns, but storytelling makes evidence more memorable Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  6. EP#188: Revisiting 'Leading Quietly: The power of introverts at work'

    20 Jan

    EP#188: Revisiting 'Leading Quietly: The power of introverts at work'

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

    37 min
  7. EP#187: Leading Through Uncertainty

    16/12/2025

    EP#187: Leading Through Uncertainty

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

    59 min
  8. EP#186: Stop talking, start listening — the secret to better government communication

    18/11/2025

    EP#186: Stop talking, start listening — the secret to better government communication

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

    46 min
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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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