GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

Is Google still the king of search or has AI changed the game forever?

The way people find information is undergoing the biggest shift in decades and government communicators can’t afford to be left behind. In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Jim Stewart, CEO of Stewart Media, about the seismic shift in digital search and what it means for public sector communication.

A 25-year SEO veteran, Jim explains why this transformation is as significant as the birth of the internet and how government agencies can stay visible in AI-driven searches. From optimising government websites for AI-driven platforms to ensuring search bots can access critical public information, Jim breaks down the practical strategies to stay ahead.

This isn’t just another tech trend – it’s a fundamental shift in how people find and use information. If you're in government communications, you can’t afford to ignore it. Tune in now to learn how to keep your content discoverable, credible and ready for the AI era.

• Learn how AI is reshaping search and SEO strategies.
• Discover why government communicators must adapt to AI search.
• Find out how to keep public sector content visible online.
• Expert tips on optimising websites for AI bots.
• Explore AI tools that enhance communication and accessibility.
• Understand the future of government messaging in the AI era.

• NotebookLM | Google
• ChatGPT | OpenAI
• Trends | Google
• How Robots.txt works | Google
• Beyond Google: Mastering Search in A World Of AI Assistants | Jim Stewart
• Website | StewArt Media
• Blog | GovComms Podcast

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Great communicators aren’t born—they’re made.

In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke chats with Dr. Louise Mahler, an expert in leadership communication, about the art of presence, authenticity, and confidence. With a background in business and opera, Louise brings a unique perspective to what makes a great communicator—and why government professionals need to master these skills.

Louise shares practical techniques to improve public speaking, from voice control and body language to storytelling and audience engagement. She explains the power of the "rule of three", how to structure compelling messages, and why good communication starts with breathing and body awareness.

Whether you’re presenting to stakeholders, leading a team, or engaging the public, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you command attention and build trust. If you want to captivate, connect, and communicate with impact, this is the masterclass you need.

• Gravitas builds trust through presence, authenticity, and confidence.
• Strong delivery relies on voice, body language, and gestures.
• The rule of three makes messages clear and memorable.
• Overcome self-doubt with mantras and better posture.
• Storytelling, humour, and connection keep audiences engaged.
• Breathing and structure improve communication impact.

• Website | Louise Mahler
• Gravitas | Louise Mahler
• The 5 Canons of Classical Rhetoric | ThoughtCo
• The Rule of 3 | Leadership Garden
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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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.

• 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.

• Data Release Calendar | ABS
• Graphic Design App | Canva
• Social media | ABS
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

A transcript of this episode can be found here.

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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.

• 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.

• Water’s Edge – The Podcast | IGWC
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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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.

• Co-designing climate strategies
• Leveraging AI for efficiency
• Addressing misinformation challenges
• Building trust through transparency
• Empowering authentic storytelling
• Strengthening stakeholder collaboration

• Stephanie Speck | LinkedIn
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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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.

• Using LinkedIn strategically
• Authentic storytelling techniques
• Tailoring content by platform
• Aligning brands with human truths
• Driving business growth strategically

• Stanley Henry | LinkedIn
• The Attention Seeker | TikTok
• The Attention Seeker | Website
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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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!

• Storytelling and reframing mindsets
• Building resilience and growth
• Behavioral nudges in public health
• Addressing climate anxiety in communications
• AI challenges in government messaging
• Modern communication frameworks

• GovComms Ep #161 | Stanley Henry
• GovComms Ep #156 | Mardi Stewart
• GovComms Ep #165 | Sharon Rosenrauch
• GovComms Ep #151 | Ruth Dewsbury
• GovComms Ep #160 | Dr. Nathan Borgford-Parnell
• GovComms Ep #157 | Strath Gordon
• GovComms Ep #159 | Jennifer Muir
• GovComms Ep #150 | Alex Aiken
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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AI is shaking up the world of communications—are you ready? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with PR expert Stephen Waddington to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work. From streamlining tasks to offering new ways to tackle big challenges, Stephen explains how AI can act as a "clerk, colleague, and coach" for communicators.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. They dig into the risks, the need for ethical governance, and why every organisation needs clear policies to stay ahead. Stephen also shares his thoughts on the shifting media landscape, the growing influence of niche communities, and what it means for how governments connect with citizens.

Hear about Socially Mobile, the not-for-profit PR school empowering diverse professionals to lead in the industry. Whether you're a government communicator, public sector leader, or PR professional, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to future-proof their role in an evolving industry.

• AI in communications transforming workflows
• Ethical governance and responsible AI adoption
• Shifting media landscape and niche communities
• AI applications for communication professionals
• Futureproofing by adapting to changes
• Socially Mobile supporting diverse professionals

• The Use of AI in Corporate Communications and Public Relations | Wadds Inc.
• Invisible Rulers | Renee DiResta
• The not-for-profit PR school | Socially Mobile
• Co-Intelligence: An AI Masterclass with Ethan Mollick | Stanford Business
• Research & Reports | Wadds Inc.
• GovComms Podcast | Blog

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What if leadership was less about authority and more about connection?

Imagine a young boy in rural Zimbabwe, discovering the world through books borrowed from a modest village library. That boy is Alfred Chidembo, whose love for stories sparked a journey from his village to Australia, where he now serves in the Australian Public Service and leads a literacy charity, Aussie Books for Zim.

In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke explores how the Ubuntu philosophy—“I am because we are”—has guided Alfred’s life and work. Alfred shares how empathy, storytelling, and genuine connection are at the heart of his mission. He also discusses how these values can enhance communication in government by fostering trust, understanding, and community engagement. It’s a heartfelt look at how empathy, flexibility, and the stories we tell can create lasting change. This episode is for anyone who believes that by lifting others, we all rise together.

• Ubuntu philosophy and leadership through empathy
• Power of storytelling in connection
• Founding Aussie Books for Zim charity
• Building relationships in public service
• Overcoming challenges with resilience
• Enhancing government communication with trust

• Aussie Books for Zim
• Ubuntu | Alfred Chidembo
• Ubuntu Philosphy | The Collector
• Literacy: the greatest treasure of all |TEDx

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As cities around the world grapple with a wave of disinformation, how can they fight back and restore public trust? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Ika Trijsburg, leader of the Disinformation in the City project, to tackle this urgent question. Ika unveils the Global Response Playbook, a powerful toolkit designed to help cities counter false information at a local level. She walks us through its three-phase approach—pre-empting, pre-bunking, and debunking—and shows how cities can become hubs of trust and resilience.

Drawing on many years of experience in city diplomacy and local government, Ika shares stories and insights on why disinformation impacts every layer of city life, from elected officials to public service teams. With her unique perspective, Ika emphasises the power of collaboration and the critical role cities play in protecting their communities. Full of actionable insights and real optimism, this episode is a must-listen for government communicators and public sector leaders who are ready to step up in the fight against disinformation.

• How disinformation challenges local governments and impacts public trust.
• A three-phase strategy to tackle disinformation.
• Why cities are well-positioned to address disinformation where people experience policy firsthand.
• The importance of community-focused strategies to build trust and counter disinformation.
• Partnerships within and beyond government strengthen resilience to disinformation.
• How cities worldwide can share strategies and amplify impact through diplomatic collaboration.

• Disinformation in the City Response Playbook | University of Melbourne
• Disinformation in the City Project | University of Melbourne
• Melbourne Centre for Cities | University of Melbourne

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