Shows
The GovMaker PodcastWelcome to Season 3!New season, new intro, who dis? In this episode of the GovMaker podcast, hosts Nick Scott and Jason Pearman are joined by Pond Deshpande, Executive Director, Vanessa Paesani, to discuss the upcoming season and the 2025 GovMaker Conference in partnership with the Canadian Open Data Summit. The episode includes reflections on past seasons and a preview of what's to come in Season 3!
2025-11-2317 min
Let's Think DigitalLet's Keep Thinking DigitalThis is the final episode of the Let's Think Digital podcast in its current form. I've been thinking a lot about transitions recently. Last month, I had the honour of being asked to serve as Vice President of Learning and Leadership at the Institute of Governance. The IOG is a not-for-profit, non-partisan organization that I’ve worked with for a number of years that does important work to advance good public governance. Its mission is needed now more than ever as governments are under increased expectations to modernize and evolve to meet the moment. I'm excited to ta...
2025-03-0324 min
The GovMaker PodcastLeadership for Transforming Government with Susan Holt - recorded live at GovMaker 2024In this final episode of the GovMaker podcast season two, we bring you an exclusive live recording from GovMaker 2024. Hosted by Nick Scott, this special episode features an insightful conversation with the newly elected Premier of New Brunswick, Susan Holt.
During the discussion, Premier Holt reflects on her inspiring journey to the highest office in the province, sharing the pivotal moments and lessons that shaped her leadership style. She opens up about the profound influence her parents had on her values and approach to leadership, emphasizing the power of integrity, resilience, and empathy.
As the co...
2024-12-1849 min
The GovMaker PodcastLeadership for Transforming Government with Susan Holt - recorded live at GovMaker 2024In this final episode of the GovMaker podcast season two, we bring you an exclusive live recording from GovMaker 2024. Hosted by Nick Scott, this special episode features an insightful conversation with the newly elected Premier of New Brunswick, Susan Holt.
During the discussion, Premier Holt reflects on her inspiring journey to the highest office in the province, sharing the pivotal moments and lessons that shaped her leadership style. She opens up about the profound influence her parents had on her values and approach to leadership, emphasizing the power of integrity, resilience, and empathy.
As the co...
2024-12-1849 min
The GovMaker PodcastExploring Social Innovation and Open Government with Nick ScottIn this conversation, Nick Scott shares his experiences and insights on driving innovation and change within government. He discusses the importance of serendipity and how seemingly unrelated experiences and connections can come together to create opportunities. Nick also talks about the challenges he faced in changing the culture of government and the need for empathy and self-care in leadership roles. He highlights the value of building networks and creating spaces for experimentation and learning. Stay tuned for the release of the last episode of the season next Wednesday with a special guest!
2024-12-1154 min
The GovMaker PodcastCreating an Enabling Environment for Innovation with Jason PearmanIn this conversation, Nick Scott questioned Jason Pearman about his Hero journey as a public servant. Jason breaks down the process of transforming government and shares his experiences in implementing innovative practices. He discusses the Open Policymaking Toolkit and the importance of providing the right level of information and technical assistance to professionals. Jason also highlights the role of champions and supporters in crafting an enabling environment for innovation in the public sector.
2024-12-0451 minThe GovMaker PodcastAligning Goals Across Government Levels with Honey DacanayIn this conversation, Honey Dacanay discusses the challenges and strategies for driving innovation in the public sector. Key themes include the impact of time pressures on innovation, the importance of leveraging political capital, and the need for effective leadership succession. Dacanay emphasizes understanding organizational readiness for change and empowering colleagues to take initiative. The discussion also highlights the significance of collaboration and continuous learning in fostering a culture of innovation within public service.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!
2024-11-261h 18
The GovMaker PodcastAligning Goals Across Government Levels with Honey DacanayIn this conversation, Honey Dacanay discusses the challenges and strategies for driving innovation in the public sector. Key themes include the impact of time pressures on innovation, the importance of leveraging political capital, and the need for effective leadership succession. Dacanay emphasizes understanding organizational readiness for change and empowering colleagues to take initiative. The discussion also highlights the significance of collaboration and continuous learning in fostering a culture of innovation within public service.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!
2024-11-261h 18The GovMaker PodcastDreaming about a Ministry of Unbounded Affairs in Canada with Marlieke KieboomIn this episode of the GovMaker podcast, Jason Pearman and Nick engage with Marlie Kikiboom, who shares her journey from the Netherlands to Canada and her experiences in public service. Marlie discusses her work in ethnographic research, systemic design, and social innovation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge co-production. She introduces the concept of the 'Ministry of Unbounded Affairs' as a way to approach public service challenges without the constraints of traditional departmental boundaries. The conversation explores the idea of rewilding government, personal transformation, and the challenges faced in public service, culminating in rapid-fire questions that reveal Marlie's...
2024-11-201h 22
The GovMaker PodcastDreaming about a Ministry of Unbounded Affairs in Canada with Marlieke KieboomIn this episode of the GovMaker podcast, Jason Pearman and Nick engage with Marlie Kikiboom, who shares her journey from the Netherlands to Canada and her experiences in public service. Marlie discusses her work in ethnographic research, systemic design, and social innovation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge co-production. She introduces the concept of the 'Ministry of Unbounded Affairs' as a way to approach public service challenges without the constraints of traditional departmental boundaries. The conversation explores the idea of rewilding government, personal transformation, and the challenges faced in public service, culminating in rapid-fire questions that reveal Marlie's...
2024-11-201h 22
The GovMaker PodcastHow It All Broke: A Call for Change in public services with Kelly LamrockIn this conversation, Kelly Lamrock discusses the systemic failures of government as highlighted in his reports, 'How It All Broke' and 'What We All Want.' He emphasizes the need for significant reforms in public service, focusing on the importance of outcomes over outputs, the role of incentives, and the necessity of leadership that prioritizes collective goals. Lamrock advocates for decentralizing decision-making to empower frontline workers and improve service delivery, ultimately aiming to close the gap between policy promises and actual outcomes for citizens. He also offers advice to public servants on embracing discomfort to drive meaningful change, while...
2024-11-141h 34The GovMaker PodcastHow It All Broke: A Call for Change in public services with Kelly LamrockIn this conversation, Kelly Lamrock discusses the systemic failures of government as highlighted in his reports, 'How It All Broke' and 'What We All Want.' He emphasizes the need for significant reforms in public service, focusing on the importance of outcomes over outputs, the role of incentives, and the necessity of leadership that prioritizes collective goals. Lamrock advocates for decentralizing decision-making to empower frontline workers and improve service delivery, ultimately aiming to close the gap between policy promises and actual outcomes for citizens. He also offers advice to public servants on embracing discomfort to drive meaningful change, while...
2024-11-141h 34The GovMaker PodcastThe need to transform public service (opening discussion) with Katie DaveyOur co-hosts Nick Scott and Jason Peerman are joined by Katie Davey, Executive Director of the Pond-Deshpande Centre, to discuss the central theme of this season's podcast, highlighting the need to transform public services and pave the way for the next generation of public servants.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!
2024-11-0628 min
The GovMaker PodcastThe need to transform public service (opening discussion) with Katie DaveyOur co-hosts Nick Scott and Jason Peerman are joined by Katie Davey, Executive Director of the Pond-Deshpande Centre, to discuss the central theme of this season's podcast, highlighting the need to transform public services and pave the way for the next generation of public servants.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!
2024-11-0628 min
The GovMaker PodcastThe Role of Empathy in Leadership with René BoudreauIn this engaging conversation, René Boudreau shares his journey in public service, highlighting his role in founding Brilliant Labs to drive innovation in public education. He discusses the significance of empathy and kindness in leadership, reflecting on his own experiences and failures. Boudreau advocates for empowering individuals within government to drive change and highlights the crucial role politicians play in governance. The discussion also touches on the need for rapid adaptation and the importance of maintaining connections with the outside world. Ultimately, Boudreau encourages leaders to foster a culture of kindness and support within their teams.
Join t...
2024-10-301h 23The GovMaker PodcastThe Role of Empathy in Leadership with René BoudreauIn this engaging conversation, René Boudreau shares his journey in public service, highlighting his role in founding Brilliant Labs to drive innovation in public education. He discusses the significance of empathy and kindness in leadership, reflecting on his own experiences and failures. Boudreau advocates for empowering individuals within government to drive change and highlights the crucial role politicians play in governance. The discussion also touches on the need for rapid adaptation and the importance of maintaining connections with the outside world. Ultimately, Boudreau encourages leaders to foster a culture of kindness and support within their teams.
Join t...
2024-10-301h 23The GovMaker PodcastBuilding Resilience in Government with Lauren HunterIn this conversation, Jason Pearman interviews Lauren Hunter about her extensive experience in public sector innovation. They discuss her journey into government, the challenges of bureaucracy, and the establishment of the Innovation Hub at Natural Resources Canada. Lauren shares insights on key initiatives like the Free Agent Program and the ADAPT team, as well as her current projects focused on resilience and food security. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration, the need for systemic change, and the role of behavioral nudges in improving public service outcomes.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social...
2024-10-231h 25
The GovMaker PodcastBuilding Resilience in Government with Lauren HunterIn this conversation, Jason Pearman interviews Lauren Hunter about her extensive experience in public sector innovation. They discuss her journey into government, the challenges of bureaucracy, and the establishment of the Innovation Hub at Natural Resources Canada. Lauren shares insights on key initiatives like the Free Agent Program and the ADAPT team, as well as her current projects focused on resilience and food security. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration, the need for systemic change, and the role of behavioral nudges in improving public service outcomes.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social...
2024-10-231h 25
The GovMaker PodcastThe Role of Complexity in Effective Governance with Dr. Alex RyanIn this conversation, Dr. Alex Ryan shares his journey into public service and transformation, discussing his experiences in the military, the founding of Alberta CoLab, and the challenges faced in public sector innovation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding complexity, the role of people in decision-making, and the need for adaptive learning in transformation efforts. Dr. Ryan reflects on his personal growth and offers advice for future leaders in navigating the complexities of public service.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite...
2024-10-161h 03The GovMaker PodcastThe Role of Complexity in Effective Governance with Dr. Alex RyanIn this conversation, Dr. Alex Ryan shares his journey into public service and transformation, discussing his experiences in the military, the founding of Alberta CoLab, and the challenges faced in public sector innovation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding complexity, the role of people in decision-making, and the need for adaptive learning in transformation efforts. Dr. Ryan reflects on his personal growth and offers advice for future leaders in navigating the complexities of public service.
Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite...
2024-10-161h 03The GovMaker PodcastThe Power of Community in Public Sector Change with Rebecca McShefferyIn this episode of GovMaker, Nick Scott and Jason Pearman engage in a deep conversation with Rebecca McSheffery, the Director of NouLab in New Brunswick. They explore Rebecca's journey from her early passion for equity to her impactful work in public sector innovation. The discussion highlights the importance of resilience, community engagement, and the need for change agents within government. Rebecca shares her experiences during her internship at the government of New-Brunswick, the challenges she faced, and her vision for a more innovative and inclusive public service. The conversation emphasizes the significance of collaboration, creativity, and the power of...
2024-10-0958 min
The GovMaker PodcastThe Power of Community in Public Sector Change with Rebecca McShefferyIn this episode of GovMaker, Nick Scott and Jason Pearman engage in a deep conversation with Rebecca McSheffery, the Director of NouLab in New Brunswick. They explore Rebecca's journey from her early passion for equity to her impactful work in public sector innovation. The discussion highlights the importance of resilience, community engagement, and the need for change agents within government. Rebecca shares her experiences during her internship at the government of New-Brunswick, the challenges she faced, and her vision for a more innovative and inclusive public service. The conversation emphasizes the significance of collaboration, creativity, and the power of...
2024-10-0958 minThe GovMaker PodcastNavigating the In & Out of Government with Ryan AndrosoffIn this first episode of the GovMaker Podcast Season 2, hosts Nick Scott and Jason Pearman engage in a deep conversation with Ryan Androsoff, a digital government expert and CEO of ThinkDigital. They explore Ryan's journey into public sector innovation, the challenges of government bureaucracy, and the importance of user-centric design in government services. Ryan shares insights on building the Canadian Digital Service, the impact of previous initiatives, and offers advice for future public sector innovators. The discussion also touches on Ryan's vision for the future of government and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal his thoughts on government, technology...
2024-10-021h 27
The GovMaker PodcastNavigating the In & Out of Government with Ryan AndrosoffIn this first episode of the GovMaker Podcast Season 2, hosts Nick Scott and Jason Pearman engage in a deep conversation with Ryan Androsoff, a digital government expert and CEO of ThinkDigital. They explore Ryan's journey into public sector innovation, the challenges of government bureaucracy, and the importance of user-centric design in government services. Ryan shares insights on building the Canadian Digital Service, the impact of previous initiatives, and offers advice for future public sector innovators. The discussion also touches on Ryan's vision for the future of government and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal his thoughts on government, technology...
2024-10-021h 27
The GovMaker PodcastChristian BasonJoin Nicholas Scott as he interviews Dr. Christian Bason, a global leader in public sector innovation and design. Christian shares his journey and highlights the relevance of human-centered design in government. They discuss the clash between design principles and bureaucracy, emphasizing the need for collaboration. The conversation also explores the evolution of innovation, from evidence-based policy to mission-oriented innovation. Discover how missions bring together public sector, market, and academic actors to tackle complex challenges and shape long-term outcomes. Gain valuable insights into public sector innovation and the role of government in driving societal change.
2023-07-061h 02
The GovMaker PodcastJenny LewisJoin Nicholas Scott in a captivating conversation with Professor Jenny Lewis, a leading thinker in public policy and public administration. Discover the lasting impact of new public management, the transformative effects of COVID-19, and the crisis of expertise within policy functions. Explore the vital role of universities in rebuilding capabilities and engaging in impactful policy work. Gain valuable advice for organizations transitioning out of their operations and learn from successful models of sustained collaboration. Tune in to explore the evolving world of public policy and its future challenges.
2023-06-1544 min
The GovMaker PodcastGayle MacDonaldJoin host Nick Scott in a captivating conversation with Dr. Gayle MacDonald as they explore the vital collaboration between academia and government. Discover the challenges, stereotypes, and misconceptions that hinder this partnership, and gain insights into successful initiatives that have transformed policies and research. Explore the importance of trust, communication, and the role of boundary organizations like NBSPRN in bridging the gap. Uncover the evolving landscape of academia and government, and the pressing need for continued collaboration in addressing crucial issues. Don't miss this enlightening episode on building a stronger relationship between academia and government for a better future.
2023-06-0850 min
The GovMaker PodcastTed McDonaldJoin Nicholas Scott in a thought-provoking interview with Dr. Ted McDonald, Executive Director of NBIRDT, as they discuss the journey of the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network. This conversation explores the challenges and successes in establishing an infrastructure that supports evidence-based policy making, breaking down silos, and fostering collaboration between academia and government. You'll gain insights into the transformative impact of bridging research and policy. Prepare to be inspired to make a difference in the lives of citizens through evidence-based decision making.
2023-06-0151 min
The GovMaker PodcastDavid AlwardNicholas Scott chats with former Premier of New Brunswick, David Alward. They discuss the significance of collaboration and bridging boundaries to advance social progress.
The conversation highlights the importance of connecting Canadians, researchers, students, startups, and the local ecosystem to foster social change. David also emphasizes the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the critical role of diplomats in ensuring essential supplies for Canada.
The interview further explores the need for timely access to research and knowledge in government decision-making. The discussion also touches on the leadership qualities demonstrated by individuals like Andy Scott...
2023-05-2539 minLet's Think DigitalDo Innovation Labs Work?Over the past decade it seems like countless innovation labs have sprung up inside of government. But do they really work? Sometimes innovation and government can seem like a contradiction in terms. This week, Ryan co-hosts with Think Digital Associate, Nick Scott, to dig deep into not only the ways that governments themselves can become more innovative, but why government might actually be necessary for innovation to flourish.Joining Ryan and Nick to explore this topic is Alex Ryan, Co-founder and CEO of Synthetikos. Alex has a tremendous breadth of experience having previously ran innovation labs in...
2023-05-191h 08
The GovMaker PodcastJudy WagnerIn this episode, Judy Wagner, former Clerk of the Executive Council of Government of New Brunswick, shares her insights on evidence-based policy-making. She highlights the importance of engaging stakeholders, being iterative in policy development, and building relationships with academics to inform policy decisions. Wagner also emphasizes the need for funding for evaluation components within projects and programs. Finally, she pays tribute to the late Andy Scott and his passion for making New Brunswick a better place through evidence-based policy-making.
2023-05-1844 min
The GovMaker PodcastClaire MorrisIn this episode, Nicholas Scott speaks with Claire Morris, the first board chair of NBSPRN and former clerk of the executive council in New Brunswick, about SPRN's mission, which was to connect academic researchers, students, and government staff to collaborate and develop evidence-based public policy. They also talk about the challenges of achieving this mission, as well as the potential gap left by NBSPRN as it ends its operations. Claire shares her memories of Andy Scott, a former member of parliament and key figure in the network's creation, and reflects on his impact and legacy. She emphasizes the importance...
2023-05-1139 min
The GovMaker PodcastGreg EricsonIn this episode of the GovMaker podcast, City Councillor Greg Ericson shares his thoughts on the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network (NBSPRN) and its impact on social policy in the province. Ericson highlights the importance of evidence-based policies and the role that the NBSPRN plays in bringing together diverse perspectives to develop comprehensive and effective solutions to complex social issues. He also addresses the challenges facing the NBSPRN, such as limited funding for social policy research in the province. Despite these challenges, Ericson believes that the NBSPRN made a significant impact on social policy in New Brunswick and...
2023-05-041h 05The GovMaker PodcastGreg EricsonIn this episode of the GovMaker podcast, City Councillor Greg Ericson shares his thoughts on the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network (NBSPRN) and its impact on social policy in the province. Ericson highlights the importance of evidence-based policies and the role that the NBSPRN plays in bringing together diverse perspectives to develop comprehensive and effective solutions to complex social issues. He also addresses the challenges facing the NBSPRN, such as limited funding for social policy research in the province. Despite these challenges, Ericson believes that the NBSPRN made a significant impact on social policy in New Brunswick and...
2023-05-041h 05
The GovMaker PodcastKelly LamrockIn this episode, we speak with New Brunswick's child, youth & seniors' advocate, Kelly Lamrock. Kelly shares his insights and experiences from his time as a cabinet minister, including the importance of stakeholder engagement, the difficulties of balancing competing interests, and the need for patience in achieving lasting change. We also discuss the role of technology in education, the impact of COVID-19 on the education system, and the potential for positive change that can emerge from the current crisis. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education policy reform.
2023-04-2740 min
The GovMaker PodcastKate RogersIn this podcast episode, Nick Scott chats with Mayor Kate Rogers, former Managing Director of the NB Social Policy Research Network about her experience working with the organization. Kate reflects on the founding of the organization and the importance of building personal relationships to its success. She discusses how the network could have had even greater impact had it been more fully utilized and supported. Kate also shares her memories of former MP Andy Scott, who was instrumental in the creation of NBSPRN. She describes him as a genuine and giving person, always eager to learn and open to...
2023-04-201h 13
The GovMaker PodcastJohn McLaughlinIn this podcast episode, John McLaughlin, former president of the University of New Brunswick, shares his insights on the importance of network governance in solving complex societal challenges. McLaughlin emphasizes the need to connect people with different perspectives and expertise to collaborate and generate innovative solutions. He also discusses the challenges faced by government leaders in driving change and the need for a new generation of leaders to bring a different set of values to the table. McLaughlin reflects on the legacy of Andy Scott, and his unique ability to bring together different communities and motivate them to be...
2023-04-1355 min
The GovMaker PodcastNick ScottWelcome to the first episode of GovMaker: The Podcast!
In this episode Nicholas Scott and Katie Davey discuss the legacy of New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network. They talk about how NBSPRN came to be, its mission, and the impact it had on the province of New Brunswick. They also share their personal experiences working with NBSPRN and how it influenced the work at the Pond-Deshpande Centre. Finally, they discuss the GovMaker conference, which emerged out of NBSPRN's efforts to build open government networks to advance its mission, and its upcoming 2023 edition. The episode...
2023-04-0624 minThe GovMaker PodcastNick ScottWelcome to the first episode of GovMaker: The Podcast!
In this episode Nicholas Scott and Katie Davey discuss the legacy of New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network. They talk about how NBSPRN came to be, its mission, and the impact it had on the province of New Brunswick. They also share their personal experiences working with NBSPRN and how it influenced the work at the Pond-Deshpande Centre. Finally, they discuss the GovMaker conference, which emerged out of NBSPRN's efforts to build open government networks to advance its mission, and its upcoming 2023 edition. The episode...
2023-04-0624 min
The GovMaker PodcastIntroducing: Govmaker: The Podcast!Welcome to GovMaker: The Podcast, a series exploring open policy and public sector innovation. Over the next 10 weeks, we have the privilege of discussing a very unique organization: the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network. The late Honourable Andy Scott founded this organization to advance an innovative approach to public policy-making. With a focus on cross-sector collaboration, and evidence-based policy, the network played a significant role in shaping our thinking about how public policy is developed. We hope you'll join us!
2023-03-2202 min
The GovMaker PodcastIntroducing: Govmaker: The Podcast!Welcome to GovMaker: The Podcast, a series exploring open policy and public sector innovation. Over the next 10 weeks, we have the privilege of discussing a very unique organization: the New Brunswick Social Policy Research Network. The late Honourable Andy Scott founded this organization to advance an innovative approach to public policy-making. With a focus on cross-sector collaboration, and evidence-based policy, the network played a significant role in shaping our thinking about how public policy is developed. We hope you'll join us!
2023-03-2202 min
Femme Wonk by Katie DaveyEp 16: What does open government look like?In this episode, we chat with Erin Flood about our recent experience with the GovMaker Conference. We discuss open government, open data, the future of democracy, and what role technology plays in this conversation. This is a big topic and we were left with some big questions including how we build the infrastructure around privacy that makes us feel protected and safe with what governments will do with that data in the same way that we feel safe using publicly funded infrastructure -- let us know what you think!
2019-05-0722 min