Episode 4. Sydney Opera House's Louise Herron: Cultural Leadership and the Opera House at 50

This episode marks a departure from our usual format as we delve into an initiative close to my heart: RESONATE, a programme I've developed with the Australian Youth Orchestra through my consultancy. Rather than interviewing established cultural leaders, we're hearing directly from the next generation of classical musicians who are actively reshaping the industry from within. In this participant-led conversation, violist and composer Sophia Mackson, harpist and composer Paul Nicolaou, and Fre...

Simon Hinton has been Artistic Director and CEO of Merrigong Theatre Company in Wollongong since 2005. Under his leadership, Merrigong has grown from a presenting venue into Australia’s largest regional producing theatre company. With a deep commitment to community, First Nations engagement, and supporting independent artists, Simon has become one of the country’s most respected regional arts leaders. In this episode, Simon reflects on two decades of cultural leadership and what it takes to s...

Due to recent events at Bendigo Writers Festival, we felt it timely to release this episode, recorded earlier this year. Sam reconnects with Rosemarie Milsom, founding director of Newcastle Writers Festival, whose crisis management approach offers a masterclass in ethical cultural leadership. With journalism experience and current role as Walkley Book Award panel chair, Rosemarie navigated unprecedented challenges whilst maintaining commitment to diverse voices. Crisis Leadership Following...

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 disc...

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 ex...