This week's conversation features Seb Chan, Director and CEO of ACMI and National President of the Australian Museums and Galleries Association, exploring his innovative approach to cultural leadership and institutional transformation.

Seb shares insights from his journey from experimental music and club culture to pioneering digital transformation at major cultural institutions. He discusses how museums and cultural spaces can rebuild trust and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Key discussion points include:

• Evolving role of cultural institutions in building community trust
• Digital transformation and preservation challenges
• Designing accessible cultural spaces that reduce threshold fear
• Focus and attention in the age of social media
• Cultural translation and community engagement
• Future integration of cultural spaces with community infrastructure
• The garden metaphor for sustainable digital development
• Leadership versus management in cultural institutions
• Building intergenerational connections through cultural experiences
• The role of institutions in addressing major societal challenges

Throughout the conversation, Seb emphasises the importance of creating spaces for meaningful community interaction and the need for cultural institutions to actively shape conversations about our shared future.

Links:

• ACMI
• Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA)
• RMIT University

About Seb Chan: Seb Chan is the Director and CEO of ACMI and National President of AMAGA. His career spans pioneering roles in digital transformation at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in New York and the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. He is recognised internationally for his innovative approach to museum engagement and cultural leadership.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Seb Chan

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Michelle Leonard OAM, founder and artistic director of Moorambilla Voices, discussing her transformative work bringing high-quality music education to regional communities and her unique approach to cultural leadership built on deep connection to country and community.

Michelle shares insights from her journey from regional NSW to becoming one of Australia's most influential voices in community-engaged musical practice, and discusses how authentic artistic experiences can transform lives and communities.

Key discussion points include:

• Building sustainable arts programs in regional communities
• The role of music in developing resilience and connection
• Creating genuine engagement with First Nations communities and culture
• The importance of long-term commitment in cultural leadership
• Developing artistic excellence through community engagement
• The transformative power of collective musical experiences
• Cultural leadership as a force for social cohesion
• Building sustainable arts organizations in regional settings
• The need for authenticity in arts leadership
• Mentoring the next generation of cultural leaders

Throughout the conversation, Michelle emphasizes the importance of creating genuine connections through artistic practice and the need for cultural leaders to work with tenacity and deep respect for community and country.

Links:

• Moorambilla Voices
• Michelle Leonard's TED Talk "How can music change a child's life?"
• The Shape of Sand (Performance video)
• The Shape of Water (Performance video)

About Michelle Leonard: Michelle Leonard OAM is the founder and artistic director of Moorambilla Voices, established in 2006. Her innovative work bringing high-quality music education to regional NSW has been recognized internationally. She received an Order of Australia Medal for her service to the performing arts through music. Her work has been particularly notable for deep engagement with First Nations communities and artists, creating genuine cultural connections through music. Her TED Talk "How can music change a child's life?" has brought international attention to the transformative impact of music in regional communities. Through Moorambilla Voices, she has worked with thousands of children across regional NSW, creating an internationally recognised program that combines artistic excellence with authentic community engagement.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Michelle Leonard OAM

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Joel Carnegie, award-winning storyteller, broadcaster and musician, discussing his journey creating powerful audio narratives and live performances that deeply connect with communities.

Joel shares insights from his groundbreaking national tour of 'Stardust & The Mission', which combined storytelling, music and community engagement through collaborations with local brass bands across Australia. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities of creating cultural work in a post-COVID landscape.

Key discussion points include:

• The evolution from musician to storyteller and producer
• Building sustainable creative careers through multiple streams
• Deep community engagement through local collaborations
• The impact of digital distraction on cultural consumption
• Rethinking elite musical training institutions
• Creating accessible and inclusive artistic experiences
• The role of story in shaping Australian cultural identity
• Sustainable models for arts funding and creation
• Supporting artists through career challenges
• Digital platforms' impact on cultural production

Throughout the conversation, Joel emphasises the importance of authentic storytelling that connects with place and community. He advocates for more sustainable and inclusive approaches to cultural creation and consumption.

Links:

• ABC Classic
• The Storymakers Institute
• Hell's Gates
• Stardust & The Mission

About Joel Carnegie: Joel Carnegie is an award-winning storyteller, audio producer and musician. His work spans radio, podcasting, theatre and music, with a focus on telling uniquely Australian stories. He currently hosts evenings on ABC Classic and produces The Storymakers Institute podcast.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Joel Carnegie

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Stephen Block, Director of the Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival, discussing his remarkable journey in arts leadership from the early days of the Australian String Quartet through to his current role.

Stephen shares fascinating insights from his formative years in Adelaide during the Dunstan era, and his pivotal role in establishing the Australian String Quartet as a national chamber music ensemble. He discusses the evolution of arts funding and audience development in Australia through his various leadership roles.

Key discussion points include:

• The cultural impact of the Dunstan era in South Australia
• Establishing the Australian String Quartet
• Building national touring networks
• Developing corporate partnerships and philanthropy
• The role of chamber music in contemporary society
• Programming for heritage venues
• Festival development and audience engagement
• The importance of architectural heritage in concert presentation
• Building sustainable arts organisations
• The evolution of arts leadership in Australia

Throughout the conversation, Stephen emphasises the importance of creating memorable aesthetic experiences and building lasting relationships with audiences and supporters.

Links:

• Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival
• Van Diemen's Band
• Australian String Quartet

About Stephen Block: Stephen Block is the Director of the Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival. His career spans major roles including CEO of the Australian String Quartet and General Manager of Melbourne Chamber Orchestra. He has made significant contributions to chamber music in Australia through various leadership positions.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Stephen Block

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Timothy Walker CBE AM, former Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, discussing his remarkable journey from Tasmania to leading one of the world's great orchestras.

Tim shares insights from his extensive career in arts leadership, including transforming the Australian Chamber Orchestra into a full-time ensemble, founding World Orchestras, and his 17-year tenure leading the London Philharmonic Orchestra from 2002 to 2020.

Key discussion points include:

• Building sustainable arts organisations
• The unique player-owned orchestra model
• Balancing artistic excellence with commercial viability
• Orchestra governance and board dynamics
• Programming for diverse audiences
• Cultural leadership versus management
• Australian orchestras' relationship with society
• Supporting young musicians through education
• Social responsibility in arts organisations
• The impact of COVID-19 on orchestral performance

Throughout the conversation, Tim emphasises the importance of effective management and clear artistic vision in leading major cultural institutions. He advocates for orchestras to focus on their core mission while remaining responsive to community needs.

Links:

• London Philharmonic Orchestra
• Australian Chamber Orchestra

About Timothy Walker: Timothy Walker CBE AM was Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra from 2002 to 2020. His career spans major leadership roles in Australian and international arts organisations. In 2020, he was awarded Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for services to arts and music.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Timothy Walker CBE AM

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Guy Noble, one of Australia's most versatile conductors and broadcasters, discussing his perspectives on orchestral leadership and audience engagement.

Guy shares candid insights from his extensive career conducting major Australian orchestras and working with international artists. He reflects on the evolution of orchestral culture, programming challenges, and building connections with audiences.

Key discussion points include:

• The changing role of orchestras in contemporary society
• Programming for diverse audiences whilst maintaining artistic standards
• Orchestra musicians' evaluation of conductors
• Building sustainable careers in classical music
• The impacts of COVID-19 on performing arts
• Supporting emerging Australian conductors
• The future of orchestral performance

Throughout the conversation, Guy emphasises the importance of balancing artistic excellence with accessibility and entertainment value. He advocates for a more inclusive approach to classical music that maintains high standards while engaging broader audiences.

Links:

• Australian Youth Orchestra REPLA.Y.O Programme

About Guy Noble: Guy Noble is one of Australia's most experienced conductors, having worked with all major Australian orchestras as well as leading international ensembles. He is also a respected broadcaster, pianist and presenter known for his ability to connect classical music with diverse audiences.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Guy Noble

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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@DCLPod

[email protected]

samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Jessica Gethin, one of Australia's leading conductors and newly appointed Artistic Advisor of Orchestra Victoria, discussing her journey in conducting and perspectives on cultural leadership.

Jessica shares insights from her career development as a conductor in Australia, from her early days with Perth Symphony Orchestra through to her current roles with Orchestra Victoria and West Australian Ballet. She offers a unique perspective on building an international conducting career whilst remaining based in Australia.

Key discussion points include:

• The pathway to conducting in Australia
• Building an entrepreneurial approach to career development
• The role of mentorship and education in conducting
• Challenges facing conductors in Australia
• Gender discrimination in classical music
• The evolution of orchestral culture
• Programming for diverse audiences
• Orchestra Victoria's unique position in Australia's cultural landscape
• Balancing artistic excellence with accessibility
• The importance of regional touring and community engagement

Throughout the conversation, Jessica emphasises the importance of authentic leadership and building trust between conductor, musicians and management. She advocates for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to orchestral culture.

Links:

• Orchestra Victoria
• West Australian Ballet
• WA Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA)

About Jessica Gethin: Jessica Gethin is the Artistic Advisor of Orchestra Victoria and Principal Conductor of the West Australian Ballet. She is also Head of Orchestral Studies and Conducting at the WA Academy of Performing Arts. Her career spans opera, ballet and symphonic conducting across Australia and internationally.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Jessica Gethin

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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@DCLPod

[email protected]

samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Sumayya Usmani, award-winning food writer and author, discussing her remarkable journey from law to becoming a leading voice in food writing and cultural storytelling.

Sumayya shares fascinating insights from her unique childhood spent travelling on merchant ships, and how this influenced her perspective on food, culture and belonging. She discusses her transition from corporate law to food writing, including her groundbreaking 2016 cookbook 'Summers Under the Tamarind Tree', which was listed as one of The Independent's best cookbooks of that year.

Key discussion points include:

• Growing up on merchant ships and its influence on her worldview
• The transition from law to creative writing
• The development of Pakistani cuisine and its cultural narrative
• Writing as a means of exploring displacement and identity
• The role of food in connecting cultures
• Creative evolution and following one's intuition
• Current doctoral research into culinary displacement
• The impact of partition on South Asian foodways
• Contemporary British cultural dynamics

Throughout the conversation, Sumayya reflects on her role as a cultural mediator, using food and writing to bridge understanding between different communities. She emphasises the importance of telling stories that explore the deeper cultural and historical contexts of cuisine.

Links:

• 'Summers Under the Tamarind Tree: Recipes and Memories from Pakistan'
• 'Andaza: A Memoir of Food, Flavour and Freedom'
• The Craft: stories about writing & the writers' spirit- Podcast
• QISSA Writers' Community

About Sumayya Usmani: Sumayya Usmani is an award-winning food writer and author. Her books have garnered international acclaim for their exploration of Pakistani cuisine and culture. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in creative writing at the University of Glasgow, examining themes of culinary displacement and cultural identity.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Sumayya Usmani

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

Instagram, Threads, X/Twitter:

@DCLPod

[email protected]

samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Amy Maiden, discussing her journey from musical theatre performer to leading audience engagement strategist.

Amy shares candid insights from her career journey, including her formative years in London's West End working with major organisations like AKA. She reflects on organising landmark charity events like the 2009 Black Saturday bushfire appeal concert at London's Princess Theatre, and how these experiences shaped her approach to arts marketing and audience development.

Key discussion points include:

• The evolution from performer to arts marketer and strategist
• Building innovative marketing approaches for West End productions
• The impact of digital transformation on audience behaviour
• Understanding contemporary fandom and audience psychology
• Preventing burnout in arts administration
• The changing nature of arts leadership and cultural institutions
• New models for engaging diverse audiences
• The intersection of commercial and subsidised arts

Throughout the conversation, Amy emphasises the importance of understanding audience behaviour and creating meaningful connections between arts organisations and their communities. She advocates for more sustainable work practices in arts administration while maintaining passion and artistic excellence.

This episode offers valuable perspectives on contemporary arts marketing and audience development from someone who has helped shape major innovations in the field.

Links:

• Anthem - Arts Marketing & Strategy
• AKA UK

About Amy Maiden: At the time of recording, Amy Maiden was Managing Partner at Anthem, and is now Chief Executive of the company. Her career spans major roles in London's West End and Australian arts organisations including Australian Theatre for Young People and Sydney Festival. She is recognised as an innovator in arts marketing and audience engagement strategy.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Amy Maiden

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Christopher Lawrence, one of Australia's most distinguished broadcasters and cultural commentators, reflecting on his four-decade career at the forefront of classical music broadcasting and arts leadership.

Christopher shares fascinating insights from his career at the ABC, including memorable interviews with musical legends Stefan Grappelli and Stephen Sondheim. He discusses the evolution of classical music broadcasting in Australia, from the early days of ABC FM through to contemporary challenges.

Key discussion points include:

• The changing role of public broadcasting in Australian culture
• The development of the ABC Classic FM 'Swoon' phenomenon
• Programming classical music for contemporary audiences
• Arts governance and board leadership
• The role of youth orchestras in cultural development
• Reflections on Stuart Challender's legacy
• The future of Australian conducting
• Contemporary challenges in arts broadcasting
• The relationship between commercial and cultural imperatives
• Personal insights into legendary musical figures

Throughout the conversation, Christopher reflects on the evolving role of cultural institutions and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity whilst reaching new audiences.

Links:

• Sydney Youth Orchestras
• ABC Classic
• Van Diemen's Band

About Christopher Lawrence: Christopher Lawrence is one of Australia's most experienced and respected music broadcasters, with a career spanning over 40 years. He has served on numerous arts boards and authored several books. He continues to be involved in arts governance and broadcasting from his base in Tasmania.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Christopher Lawrence

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

Instagram, Threads, X/Twitter:

@DCLPod

[email protected]

samuelcairnduff.com

@samuelcairnduff

Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations