Young Leaders, Big Impact with Guest Dr Jo Newton OAM || Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact
How are young Australians redefining leadership for a new generation?
Young Australians are reshaping what leadership looks like—challenging outdated models, amplifying inclusion, and driving innovative solutions to the issues that matter most to their peers and communities. This episode explores the unique energy, vision, and courage that young leaders bring to the national conversation. It examines the challenges they face in being recognised, the new forms of leadership they are pioneering, and the role intergenerational collaboration plays in ensuring youth voices influence the future.
Key Themes & Talking Points:
Youth perspectives on leadership and change.
Challenges young leaders face in being heard.
Innovation and inclusivity as hallmarks of next-gen leadership.
Inspiring peers to step into leadership roles.
Dr Jo Newton OAM, agricultural scientist and youth advocate recognised nationally for leadership, research excellence, and championing young people in agriculture.
About the series
Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact is a collaboration between the Order of Australia Association and Menzies Leadership Foundation, bringing to life the stories and insights of Australians recognised for their contribution and service.
Hosted by The Hon Vicki O’Halloran AO CVO FAICD, former President of the Order of Australia Association (2023-2026), the eight-part series explores the lived experiences, values and leadership lessons of Order of Australia recipients and what their stories can teach us about leading in service of others.
28 Sept 2026
Community First with Guest Cathy Chong AM || Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact
What happens when communities take the lead in shaping their future?
Communities hold extraordinary power when leadership is shared and local voices are amplified. This episode highlights the principles of grassroots leadership—how empathy, listening, and action rooted in community priorities create lasting transformation. It considers the role of trust and collaboration in bringing people together, the pride that grows when communities see themselves reflected in change, and the ripple effects that extend beyond local boundaries. By exploring examples of community-led initiatives, the discussion shows why leadership begins close to home and builds towards collective strength.
Key Themes & Talking Points:
The role of grassroots leadership in social change.
Listening as a powerful leadership practice.
Building civic pride and resilience.
The ripple effects of community-led action.
Cathy Chong AM, President of Chinese Welfare Services SA and long-serving multicultural, healthcare and community advocate.
About the series
Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact is a collaboration between the Order of Australia Association and Menzies Leadership Foundation, bringing to life the stories and insights of Australians recognised for their contribution and service.
Hosted by The Hon Vicki O’Halloran AO CVO FAICD, former President of the Order of Australia Association (2023-2026), the eight-part series explores the lived experiences, values and leadership lessons of Order of Australia recipients and what their stories can teach us about leading in service of others.
14 Sept 2026
Overcoming Barriers with Guest Annette “Floss” Roberts AM || Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact
How can resilience and courage turn obstacles into leadership opportunities?
Barriers—whether systemic, cultural, or personal—can derail leadership or strengthen it. This episode explores how leaders emerge through adversity, reflecting on the determination it takes to persist when doors are closed or opportunities are denied. It examines the inner resources people draw on to persevere, how setbacks become lessons, and why resilience often shapes the most authentic and impactful leaders. By unpacking stories of challenge and perseverance, the discussion reveals how courage in the face of obstacles can inspire others and create lasting change.
Key Themes & Talking Points:
The barriers faced by leaders from diverse or marginalised backgrounds.
How resilience strengthens character and influence.
Finding strength in the face of systemic challenges.
Lessons for others navigating similar struggles.
Annette “Floss” Roberts AM, former Executive Director of Royal Life Saving NT, celebrated for her leadership in drowning prevention and remote community water safety.
About the series
Voices of Leadership, Extraordinary Impact is a collaboration between the Order of Australia Association and Menzies Leadership Foundation, bringing to life the stories and insights of Australians recognised for their contribution and service.
Hosted by The Hon Vicki O’Halloran AO CVO FAICD, former President of the Order of Australia Association (2023-2026), the eight-part series explores the lived experiences, values and leadership lessons of Order of Australia recipients and what their stories can teach us about leading in service of others.
Who has been a guest on Menzies Leadership Forum
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Jo Tarnawsky
Michael Saadie
Callum Smith
Peter Collins
Kelly Bayer Rosmarin
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
3,783
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
44
Social presence
0
YouTube
68
Engagement
0
Contact Menzies Leadership Forum
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Menzies Leadership Forum
Who hosts Menzies Leadership Forum?
Elly Hanrahan and Indigo Atkinson and Dr Peter Collins and Dr Toby Newstead and Toby P Newstead host the show. Published by menziesleadershipforum.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Menzies Leadership Forum take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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