Podcast

Locale Leadership

Exploring the art, heart, and science of civic leadership, with Emma Broomfield

Leadership for people who care deeply about communities

Locale Leadership is a podcast exploring what it really means to lead in civic and community spaces.

Through conversations with councillors, local government executives, changemakers, experts, and community leaders, the podcast unpacks the realities of leading change in communities in Australia.

Whether you’re already in a formal position of civic leadership, thinking about stepping into civic office, or passionate about creating positive change where you live, this podcast is designed for you.

Season 1 - launching July 2026

About the podcast

Civic leadership has never been more complex and now more than ever, we need good people to step up to serve their communities.

Communities expect faster change, digital communication has transformed public life, and trust in institutions continues to erode. At the same time, local leaders are navigating uncertainty and  complexity, and pressures on how they lead. 

Locale Leadership explores these realities through thoughtful conversations with people working at the heart of civic leadership.

Each episode dives into the practical, emotional, and strategic dimensions of civic leadership - leaving you with inspiration and an instant knowledge boost. 

This is a podcast about leadership in the places we call home.

Who should listen

Locale Leadership is for people who care deeply about communities and want to better understand how civic leadership creates meaningful change.

Current councillors

Leaders navigating the realities of governance, decision-making, community expectations, and public trust.

Emerging civic leaders

The next generation of changemakers exploring how to influence their communities and participate more actively in civic life.

Aspiring candidates

People considering stepping into elected office who want a clearer understanding of how councils work, what leadership requires, and how to make a genuine contribution.

Local government staff

Professionals working inside councils who want deeper insight into leadership, strategy, governance, community relationships, and organisational culture.

Community leaders

People leading change through grassroots organisations, advocacy, volunteering, business, or local initiatives.

Change-makers & advocates

People passionate about improving their communities and creating long-term impact — whether inside or outside formal leadership roles.

Your podcast host

Emma Broomfield
Founder & lead facilitator

Emma is passionate about civic leadership, community participation, and helping people create meaningful change where they live.

With experience across local government, law, good governance, conflict resolution and community engagement, Emma brings curiosity, insight, and thoughtful conversation to complex leadership topics.

Through Locale Leadership, she aims to support both emerging and experienced civic leaders by sharing practical wisdom, lived experience, and diverse perspectives from across the civic landscape.

Subscribe for launch

Subscribe now for the launch of Locale Leadership for conversations about civic leadership, local government, governance, communication, and community change across Australia. Hear from councillors, executives, changemakers, and leaders shaping the future of their communities.

Season 1 - Launching July 2026

Our podcast guests

Locale Leadership brings together a diverse mix of voices from across local government, community leadership, civic innovation, governance, media, communications, and public life. Each guest offers a unique perspective on what it means to lead in service of community. These conversations go beyond politics to explore the real work of civic leadership: navigating complexity, building trust, creating change, and leading with courage in public life.

Karen Foster

Karen is a current councillor and former Mayor, experienced board director and seasoned community leader who supports other leaders thrive. She shares why intentional influence is an essential capability for every civic leader.

Cat Matson

Cat helps leaders find their voice, articulate their message and craft their stories so they can contribute, potently, to the conversations that matter to them. She shares how to speak with impact when communicating long-term change.

Ian McCormack

Ian has spent decades advising organisations in local government, governance, leadership, and strategy across Canada and beyond. He demystifies good governance and explains how to make the effective transition into civic office. 

Better civic leadership starts here

Join our growing community of civic leaders who use our newsletter to access practical insights, tools, and training each month.
Thank you!

Stay connected

  • contact@localelearning.com.au
  • 0421 180 881

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