In the first episode of Season 3, Sarah Doyle reflects on her journey into public policy and the insights she’s gained from working across government, including machinery of government roles, as well as from her time at the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose and MaRS Discovery District.

We explore what mission-oriented government looks like beyond the theory: how public institutions build the capacity to work across silos, collaborate with actors outside government, and operate in fast-moving, interconnected environments. Sarah shares concrete examples of where mission-oriented approaches have taken root, what’s helped them succeed, and what continues to get in the way.

The conversation also turns to storytelling—not as communications or spin, but as a core capability that shapes public understanding, influences what governments see as possible, and expands the range of policy and program options on the table.