Change Happens

For many leaders today, the future feels louder, faster and less predictable than ever. In this episode, global foresight strategist Joanna Lepore unpacks what strategic foresight actually is and why it matters now. Jo works with organisations around the world to build adaptability into strategy, helping leaders expand their time horizons, challenge assumptions and prepare for multiple possible futures. This is not about prediction. It is about preparation. Together, we explore how leaders can move from reactive firefighting to anticipatory leadership and why waiting to “see how it plays out” may be Australia’s biggest risk. In this episode, Jo shares: Simple rituals to make signal scanning intentional and time-bound Where long-term thinking delivers measurable ROI The questions leaders should ask to uncover blind spots Practical ways individuals can embed long-term thinking into their everyday work Host: Jenelle McMaster, EY Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader, Oceania Guest: Joanna Lepore, Global Foresight Strategist

Today, we’re unpacking why leadership feels so much harder right now, and what it takes to navigate a world defined by constant change.Futurist Dominic Price explores the pressures facing modern leaders, the shift from efficiency to effectiveness, and why upgrading our human operating systems matters more than adopting the latest tools.Dom breaks down the rising disconnect between leaders and teams, how AI is increasing both productivity and stress, and the practical mindset shifts leaders need to thrive.In this episode, Dom shares:Why “best practice” no longer exists, and leaders must create their own.How to find anchor points when “normal” has disappeared.Why organisations need to evolve their ways of working, not just add new tech.How imagination, experimentation and the “plus one” mindset unlock progress.Host: Jenelle McMaster, EY Regional Deputy CEO and People and Culture Leader, OceaniaGuest: Dominic Price, Work Futurist, Technologist, Founder

Today, we’re diving into what the next generation of talent actually wants from work - and what employers can do about it. Adam Jacobs, Co-founder and CEO of Hatch, returns to Change Happens to unpack fresh insights from Hatch’s latest Hotlist research: why ’security‘ is the headline for 2025, how Gen Z views AI as an accelerant (not a threat), and the practical shifts organisations can make to attract, grow and keep early-career talent.In this episode, Adam shares:Why saying “here’s our take on AI today” beats dodging the question, especially for junior roles.Side hustles - and why employers should embrace them.The big mismatches to fix: vague growth paths, hidden pay, fear-driven AI talk.How to put people back in hiring by using AI to reach the human conversation faster and reduce ghosting.Hatch Hotlist Survey Link: where Gen Z most want to workHotlist insights report 2025 Link: Host: Jenelle McMaster, EY Regional Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader, OceaniaGuest: Adam Jacobs, Co-founder & CEO, Hatch

Generative AI has sparked excitement, fear, and a whole lot of uncertainty. Are we on the cusp of a new industrial revolution - or stuck in a national holding pattern?In this episode of Change Happens, Jenelle sits down with two of Microsoft Australia’s top AI leaders: Sarah Carney, National Chief Technology Officer, and Tim Allen, National Skills Director. Together, they explore the reality behind the AI hype and offer a clear-eyed view on how Australia can move from hesitation to transformation.In this conversation, Tim and Sarah share:Why we’re in a ‘collective limbo’ when it comes to AI adoptionWhat Australia risks by holding back - and what we gain by leaning inWhy we need to build AI literacy across industries, from nurses to sales teamsWhy leaders must make space to “play” with AI, and how that can lead to scaleThe growing importance of coaching, clarity, and communication as core leadership skillsHow AI can enhance, not replace, our humanity at work and homeHost: Jenelle McMaster, Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EYGuests: Tim Allen and Sarah Carney, Microsoft Australia

Today, we’re stepping into one of the most urgent conversations in tech right now: bias in artificial intelligence.Tracey Spicer AM is a Walkley Award-winning journalist, author, and longtime activist for gender equity. In this episode, she unpacks the unseen biases coded into the technologies we use every day—and what happens when we leave them unchecked. Drawing on years of research for her latest book Man-Made, Tracey explores the ethical challenges and opportunities in AI development, and why we all have a role to play in shaping more equitable outcomes.In this episode, Tracey shares:How gender, race, age, and ability bias are embedded into AI systemsThe real-world impacts of biased tech—from hiring software to image generatorsWhy ‘human in the loop’ systems are critical for ethical AIHow organisations can audit their data, clean up algorithms, and lead responsiblyHost: Jenelle McMaster, Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EYGuest: Tracey Spicer AM, journalist, author, and AI ethics advocate

If you haven't already, be sure to go back and listen to Part 1 of this episode with renowned social demographer Bernard Salt, where he lays the groundwork for understanding the dynamics at play in our society. From the housing market to the care economy and labour force participation, Bernard explores the challenges and opportunities ahead, advocating for the smart integration of technology and the critical role of social skills in navigating change.In this bonus deep dive, we’ll further explore the Aged Care sector with Tim Hicks, Executive General Manager of Policy and Advocacy at aged care provider, Bolton Clarke. Host: Jenelle McMaster, Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EYGuests: Tim Hicks, EGM of Policy and Advocacy at Bolton Clarke.Listen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Welcome to Season Six of Change Happens. This season, we're going to explore the forces shaping the future of work. From emerging trends to technological developments, we'll uncover what's changing and how we're adapting. Bernard Salt AM is a leading demographer and futurist who has spent decades analysing the forces shaping society. In this episode, he unpacks the profound demographic and societal shifts post-COVID, introducing the concept of 'peak humanity' and what it means for Australia's future. From the housing market to the care economy and labour force participation, Bernard explores the challenges and opportunities ahead, advocating for the smart integration of technology and the critical role of social skills in navigating change.In this episode, Bernard shares:Why Australia is uniquely positioned to thrive in the era of 'peak humanity'The evolving needs of millennials and baby boomers in the housing marketThe role of technology and automation in solving labour shortagesThe impact of an aging population on healthcare and social servicesWhy he remains optimistic about Australia's resilience and adaptability Host: Jenelle McMaster, Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EYGuests: Bernard Salt AM, author, demographer, futuristand Tim Hicks, EGM of Policy and Advocacy at Bolton Clarke.Listen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

A quarter of the way into this century, it’s the perfect time to step back, reflect, and consider what has changed—and what’s about to—across workplaces, industries, and our lives. This season, Jenelle McMaster—Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EY—explores the forces shaping the future of work.From emerging trends to technological advancements, we’ll uncover what’s changing, how we’re adapting, and the real-world impact of these shifts—plus what they mean for the leaders of today and tomorrow.Season 6 of Change Happens returns on February 27.

"The moment of discovery, that sense of awe and wonderment, is something I wish every scientist could experience."In this captivating episode, Professor Andrew Wilks takes us on a journey from the council estates of Liverpool to the forefront of molecular cancer biology. A scientist-turned-entrepreneur, Andrew’s career spans the discovery of JAK proteins, founding 12 biotech companies, and achieving the rare trifecta: discovering a protein, developing a therapeutic molecule, and creating a medicine that changes lives.Andrew’s story is one of curiosity, resilience, and unwavering determination to make a difference in cancer research and beyond.In this episode, Andrew shares:The exhilaration of finding something no one else ever has.Managing the emotional highs and lows of scientific breakthroughs.Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship and the lessons learned along the way.Nurturing young scientists to experience their own "numinous" moments.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Prof Andrew Wilks Molecular biologist and cancer cell biologistListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

"Light gives safety, light gives hope, and I can see why children see the magic in it."Alice Min Soo Chun is a humanitarian entrepreneur whose journey began with a simple yet profound idea: light can change lives. From creating origami-inspired solar lights to distributing them in disaster-stricken areas and war zones, Alice’s work has impacted vulnerable communities worldwide. Her innovations were featured on Netflix's Gutsy by Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, showcasing her relentless drive to make a difference.In this episode, Alice shares:The impact of light in preventing violence and providing hope in war zones and disaster areasBringing solar lights to Haiti after the earthquake, and the ripple effects it had globallyHow small steps and a relentless drive to serve have led to global recognitionThe power of beauty, wonder, and awe in igniting hopeAlice’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and creating change through hope.---This podcast discusses sensitive topics, including sexual assault and suicide. If you'd prefer to skip these sections, they occur at the following times.Sexual assault/Human trafficking: 10:30 min -12.00 mins Injuries endured by children in wartime: 15.40 min and 22:30 minsSuicide: 23 minsIf you need support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Alice Chun Founder and CEO SOLIGHT DESIGN Inc.Listen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

"The music industry was the canary in the coal mine for digital disruption. What happened to us is now happening to every other industry."Dan Rosen’s career has been a balancing act between law, music, and leadership. He started out living a "double life" as a lawyer by day and a musician by night. This unique combination of skills eventually led him to the top of the music industry, first as CEO of ARIA and now as President of Warner Music Australasia.Dan shares insights from his journey of leading the industry through massive digital disruption, including:The seismic changes in the music industry, from Napster to streamingBalancing data with gut instinct when making decisionsHow Australia can compete in a global music marketplaceHis personal connection to leadership, shaped by family and resilience.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Dan Rosen President, Australasia at Warner Music GroupListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

“We’ve all got a role to play, it's incrementally happening every single day, it’s being normalised. We have to draw the line and say, enough.”Sometimes, professional experience in one field leads to using those skills to make a difference.This has been the case for Robert Pradolin, who has taken his more than 40 years of experience in the property industry and is using it to galvanise corporate Australia to get involved in solving the growing homelessness crisis.Robert shares his advice for persevering during tough times:· the myths surrounding homelessness· the economic cost to future generations· the unintended human consequences · and those moments that still get him emotional.This podcast discusses sensitive issues related to mental health and suicide, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you need support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.This mention occurs between 16.00- 16:35 minutes if you'd prefer to skip this section.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Robert Pradolin Co-founder and Director at Housing all AustraliansListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

“You think ‘Oh, I worked so hard for something I thought was going to change everything and it didn’t”Even Olympic gold loses its shine.What happens when everything you set out to achieve ends up feeling like a fleeting moment?Leisel Jones is an Australian icon and regarded as one of the world's greatest ever female swimmers.Now a published author, media personality, and celebrated radio host, Leisel talks about her journey as a young girl in the public eye>winning gold but losing her spark>making the decision to retire>feeling lost and grappling with identity>thriving on negative feedback>and the lessons she has learned on finding fulfillment, purpose, success, and what winning really means.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Leisel Jones OAM, Swimming legend, speaker, activist and best-selling authorListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

On today’s episode we explore what happens when change doesn’t happen.Professor Dr Megan Davis is a professor of constitutional law known for her work in creating the Uluru Statement from the Heart and advocating for the 2023 Voice referendum. As an international human rights lawyer, Scientia Professor, and academic, Megan discusses the lessons she learned about engaging with the heart, and not just the head.· How she finds the motivation to keep going after such a huge set-back· The complexity of poverty and how vulnerability never leaves you· Why she finds it difficult to call herself a leader· And the importance of being the first Indigenous Australian to be elected to a UN body Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Professor Dr Megan Davis Pro Vice-Chancellor Society, Scientia Professor UNSWListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

“It was the most horrendous thing that's ever happened, it was really challenging, and unfortunately made me distrustful of people, which is just not my normal stance”Not many people can say they have built something out of nothing and have stayed true to their vision and purpose. Simon Crowe, the Founder and Managing Director of Grill’d, is on a mission to liberate burgers from badness and pioneer sustainable food practices.For someone so accomplished, Simon emanates a rare vulnerability. He talks candidly about the many challenges he has faced:>his public court battle with a former co-owner and business partner>taking on the Goliath that is McDonald's>his superpowers that have helped him succeed >and why he’s a better businessman than a friend. Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Simon Crowe Founder and Managing Director of Grill’dListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

"What's the legacy we want to leave our kids? I don't want my kids to grow up in a world where women are abused and racism is just part of the DNA, absolutely not required, shouldn't be here, so how do we change it?"When it comes to the achievement of gender equality and the fight for human rights, the path to success requires big changes to happen. With International Women’s Day this month, CEO of UN Women Australia, Simone Clarke, shares the lessons she’s learned on becoming comfortable with discomfort, creating the space to make big changes, and looking for moments of hope in even the darkest of times.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Simone Clarke CEO of UN Women Australia.Listen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

“I have no idea why I was the person that chose to fix the problem of surplus food. But I was. And that is the blessing that I have received, and the gift that I have received.”Ronni Kahn AO, is a vibrant force of energy, exuding a warm honesty accompanied by her infectious and unavoidable smile. In this episode, Ronni shares with Jenelle McMaster her unique and captivating story about making change happen, on the season finale of the #ChangeHappens Podcast.Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Ronni Kahn AO Ronni Kahn AO is Visionary Leader and Founder of Australia’s Leading Food Rescue Charity and Author.Listen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

"24 hours of madness ensued, and at the end of that I found myself standing in the premier’s office and saying “my goodness, how did this happen” Mike Baird AO, former Premier of NSW and now CEO of HammondCare and Chair of Cricket Australia, shares insights into his personal journey and key moments of change with host Jenelle McMaster. This is an open, honest account of life as the Premier of NSW and dealing with an unimaginable moment - the Lindt Cafe siege in Sydney..Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Mike Baird AO CEO of HammondCare and Chair of Cricket Australia and former Premier of NSWListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Despite many obstacles in his path, Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, successfully lead his team to run two Australian Opens during the pandemic. In this episode of Change Happens with host Jenelle McMaster, Craig explains how it was an “opportunity to show people what is possible".Host: Jenelle McMaster Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis AustraliaListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Dr Jemma Green has helped create one of the biggest innovation transformations to the energy market in years...“And lots of people would say, well, you can't do the Uberfication of electricity because it's different. And for me, it was like, well, it's not like you can't, but it takes something more. And maybe we're really naive in anticipating actually what it would take, but it actually can happen.”Dr Jemma Green, Co-Founder and Chairman of Powerledger, joins our Change Happens podcast host Jenelle McMaster, to discuss her entrepreneurial story about how she disrupted the electricity market by starting a technology company that uses blockchain for energy and environmental commodity trading.Host: Jenelle McMaster is Deputy CEO Oceania and Markets Leader at EY.Guest: Dr Jemma Green is Co-Founder & Executive Chairman Powerledger, EY Fintech Entrepreneur of the YearListen now: Apple Podcasts or Spotify or where ever you get your favourite podcasts.