Shows
The AI GrappleEp 39: The Harsh Truth About Digital Access: Why Thousands of Students Are Locked Out of the AI EraAustralia is racing ahead with AI, but not everyone is getting a fair start. In this episode of The AI Grapple Podcast, Kate vanderVoort sits down with Doug Taylor to unpack the reality facing young people who are being pushed further to the edges of opportunity because they can’t get online.
Doug leads The Smith Family, one of Australia’s most trusted charities supporting students from low-income backgrounds. He brings a clear view of what digital access really looks like on the ground, why the divide is widening, and how AI could strengthen or break the path...
2025-12-0142 minThe AI GrappleEp 38: Can We Trust AI? How We Shape Technology Before It Shapes Us with Darren MenachemsonArtificial intelligence is advancing faster than our ability to regulate it, understand it, or even decide how much we trust it. In this deeply insightful episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Darren Menachemson, Chief Ethicist and Head of AI and Digital Societies at ThinkPlace, and Chair of the Education Futures Foundation, to explore what it really takes to create a future where technology serves humanity — not the other way around.
Darren’s journey is as fascinating as it is relevant. From growing up in apartheid South Africa and witnessing systemic injustice first-hand, to l...
2025-11-2557 minThe AI GrappleEp 37: Is This The Last Book Written By a Human? Jeff BurninghamIn this profound and thought-provoking conversation, Kate vanderVoort (founder of the AI Success Lab) sits down with Jeff Burningham - tech entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI.
Jeff has built and invested in companies worth over $5 billion, co-founded Peak Capital Partners and Peak Ventures, and even ran for Governor of Utah. But today, he’s turning his attention to a far deeper question:
As machines become smarter, how do we become wiser?
This episode explores how technology, entrepreneurship, and sp...
2025-10-1641 min
The Working Director065: TV DirectingJoin our panel of working television directors to learn about their process. This week we have a guest host and three kick ass TV directors!To join us live and get your questions answered be a part of our filmmaker group (it's free!) by clicking JOIN NOW at BlackmagicCollective.com or be a part of our private FaceBook group at AllFilmmakersWelcome.com.GUESTS:LIONEL COLEMAN cut his teeth at CBS news, learning the language of documentary storytelling before becoming a DGA commercial director and working with brands like Nike, Hyundai and Adidas. He...
2025-07-0356 min
Paul Higgins Podcast614 - I’ll Do the AI Homework So You Don’t Have ToIf you’re still trying to “figure out AI” in the cracks of an overloaded week, you’re not alone. Most SaaS consultants are stuck waiting—for platforms like Salesforce or HubSpot to release perfect features, or for clients to ask the right questions. Meanwhile, the biggest margin opportunity in years is passing by.In this solo episode, I share how I stay ahead of the AI curve—so you don’t have to. You’ll get my exact system for learning fast, my favorite channels, podcasts, and masterminds, and how I turn it all into team-ready playbooks and cu...
2025-06-0507 minPaul Higgins Podcast613 - Turn AI Chaos Into Client Results, Fast with Kate vanderVoortWhy you should listenKate breaks down exactly where to start, without chasing shiny tools.Learn how to build AI systems they’ll actually adopt.Kate shares how to train GPTs on your tone and strategy.If AI still feels overwhelming, like you’re already behind or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. In this episode, I speak with Kate VanderVoort from Social Mediology, who helps consultants move beyond shiny tools and build practical AI systems that actually save time. Kate explains why most businesses struggle with AI and how to fix it by starti...
2025-06-0237 min
Digital Marketing Masters PodcastKate vanderVoort Talks About Businesses Implementing AI (269)In this episode of Digital Marketing Masters, host Matt Rouse is joined by Kate vanderVoort, founder and CEO of Social Mediology and the AI Success Lab, to discuss the integration of AI into business practices. Kate shares her insights on how companies can transition from having no AI involvement to effectively incorporating AI into their operations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's implications and the need for businesses to develop a human-centered, responsible approach to AI adoption. The conversation highlights the challenges companies face in navigating the rapid advancements in AI technology and the necessity of...
2025-06-0134 minThe AI GrappleEp 36: AI, Careers & Confidence: How to Future-Proof Your Professional Path with Dr. Kyle ElliottIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Dr Kyle Elliott, a career coach to tech executives and founder of CaffeinatedKyle.com. From humble beginnings offering £5 CV reviews on Fiverr to coaching leaders into top roles at Meta, Google and Amazon, Kyle shares what’s really happening in the job market - and how AI is shifting everything from CVs to C-suite expectations.
Whether you’re a job seeker, business leader or simply watching the AI wave roll in, this episode delivers grounded, practical advice to help you stay relevant, empowered and ahead of th...
2025-05-1430 minThe AI GrappleEp 35: Beyond Hype: Real Ways AI Is Changing How We Shop Online, with Simon YenckenIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Simon Yencken, Founder and CEO of Fanplayr.
What if you could deliver hyper-personalised experiences that delight customers without creeping them out?
Simon is a true pioneer at the intersection of AI, behavioural data, and e-commerce. His career has taken him from global finance and SaaS to founding Fanplayr, a company that's helping brands deliver smarter, faster, privacy-respecting customer experiences.
We dig into how AI is reshaping e-commerce, why privacy-first strategies are critical for survival, and what the future holds for...
2025-05-0648 minThe AI GrappleEp 34: Unbias the Algorithm: AI as a Tool for Gender Equity with Dr Alessandra WallIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Dr Alessandra Wall - psychologist, leadership strategist, and founder of Noteworthy - to explore how AI can help women reshape their careers instead of fearing job loss. Alessandra works with high-performing women in tech who are often juggling expectations, under-recognised achievements, and the ever-growing mental load.
This conversation digs into what’s holding women back in AI and tech, the biases baked into systems, and how AI - when done right - can unlock time, ease, and leadership opportunities for women at every level.
...
2025-04-2947 minThe AI GrappleEp 32: AI, Ethics, and Military Leadership: Navigating the Risks with Jason WestToday, we’re tackling the profound ethical dilemmas posed by AI in military decision-making. Kate vanderVoort sits down with Jason West, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer who retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after more than a decade of service. With first hand experience participating in AI-driven war simulations and understanding how autonomous systems could be used in modern warfare, Jason brings a unique perspective to the conversation.
Now the founder of Officers Eat Last and author of Leadership Development – A Blueprint for Building Your Leadership Foundation, Jason helps business leaders navigate ethical decision-making and responsible lead...
2025-04-1155 minThe AI GrappleEp 31: World-First AI in Schools – With Leigh Williams, CIO at Brisbane Catholic EducationIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort chats with Leigh Williams, Chief Information Officer at Brisbane Catholic Education, who is leading a world-first implementation of AI across a school system. With more than 13,000 staff and hundreds of locations under her care, Leigh shares how her team is bringing ethical, scalable, and deeply human-centred AI into the classroom. From cutting admin by 9 hours a week to transforming how students are supported and assessed, this is one of the most exciting real-world uses of AI we’ve seen.
Leigh’s career spans teaching, executive leadership, national advisory role...
2025-04-0258 minThe AI GrappleEp 30: Can you tell it’s a bot? Voice AI that sounds more human than humansIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Joey Seeman - the young and sharp CEO of Nova Echo AI, a company making big waves in the conversational voice AI space.
Joey shares how voice AI can now make and answer calls that sound just like a human, helping businesses scale their sales and support teams with speed, consistency and personality. He also tackles the big questions - job loss, government regulation, and whether AI will eventually build itself.
Joey brings the perspective of a younger generation who’ve grown up wi...
2025-03-2736 minThe AI GrappleEp 29: Will AI Take My Job? Matt Rouse Explains What’s Coming NextIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Matt Rouse - a tech-savvy marketer, author, and business strategist on a mission to help people and businesses thrive in an AI-driven world.
Matt shares insights from his book Will AI Take My Job? and years of hands-on experience helping companies adapt to AI tools. From job security and the impact on industries, to AI agents and the future of search, this conversation is full of practical advice, real stories, and sharp warnings.
We talk about what jobs are safe, which ones are...
2025-03-2553 minThe AI GrappleEp 28: Katelin O'Shea on Practical AI Without the HypeIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort sits down with Katelin O’Shea - Team Project Manager for the AI team at Dropbox Global Support, PRINCE2 Practitioner, and founder of AI That Works. With a background in operations and project delivery, Katelin brings a grounded, structured, and incredibly practical approach to AI that is accessible to absolutely everyone - no technical background required.
Her journey with AI began in 2021 with Copy.ai, using it to streamline complex grant applications. Since then, she’s experimented with everything from launching an AI-generated art store to building her own...
2025-03-1848 minThe AI GrappleEp 27: AI as Co-Pilot: Enhancing Mental Healthcare with Alexander Zervakos of TheryoIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Alexander Zervakos, co-founder of Theryo – an AI-powered mental health platform transforming how therapy is experienced on both sides of the couch.
Alexander is a seasoned entrepreneur and AI specialist who previously built successful ventures in healthcare and finance. But it was his own deeply personal experience navigating therapy that became the catalyst for creating Theryo. Frustrated by a lack of structure and meaningful progress in his own sessions, Alex built a simple tool to guide his journey. That tool became the foundation for Theryo – a plat...
2025-03-1434 minThe AI GrappleEp 26: The SEO Shift to AEO: Chris Singel on What AI Gets Wrong (and Right)In this episode of the AI Grapple Chris Singel joins Kate vanderVoort for a wide-ranging, funny, and thought-provoking conversation that spans the full weird and wonderful world of artificial intelligence. From his early days coding websites on dial-up, to writing a book with AI in the shower (yes, literally), to deep dives on automation, job loss, and the ethics of AI-powered decision-making - this is an episode that will both entertain and challenge your thinking.
Chris blends sharp insights with plenty of laughs, and doesn’t hold back when talking about hallucinations, deepfakes, the illusion of control, an...
2025-03-1051 minThe AI GrappleEp 25: AI, Fine Art & the Human Story – A Deep Dive with Alice AbsolutelyIn this thought-provoking episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Amanda McCallister, the creative force behind Alice Absolutely, to explore the intersection of AI and fine art. Alice shares how she uses AI as a true artistic collaborator rather than a replacement, the ethical dilemmas she has encountered, and how AI-generated art reflects deep-seated human biases.
From her discovery of AI’s unexpected storytelling through image generation to her upcoming book on AI and the Art of War, Amanda challenges our understanding of authorship, creativity, and artistic ownership in the AI era. This ep...
2025-03-0437 minThe AI GrappleEp 24: The Death of Trust in the Age of AI: Ryan Levesque on How to Thrive and Survive in a World Flooded with AIIn this deeply insightful and personal conversation on the AI Grapple Podcast, host Kate vanderVoort speaks with Ryan Levesque - 7-time Inc. 5000 CEO, 2-time national bestselling author, and strategic advisor. Ryan has built an extraordinary career generating over $100 million in revenue without AI - until recently. His innovative ASK Method transformed how businesses understand and connect with their audiences, influencing thousands of entrepreneurs worldwide. Ryan has been one of Kate’s most significant professional influences. His frameworks and philosophy profoundly reshaped her approach to building customer communities and hyper-personalisation. In this candid and thought-provoking episode, Ryan and Kate explore cr...
2025-02-2755 min
The Chris Voss ShowThe Chris Voss Show Podcast – Kate VanderVoort, Exploring AI’s Impact: Creativity, Business, and Humanity’s Future
Kate VanderVoort, Exploring AI’s Impact: Creativity, Business, and Humanity’s Future
Socialmediology.com.au
About the Guest(s):
Kate VanderVoort is a visionary leader in digital strategy and AI implementation, currently serving as the Founder and CEO of Social Media Meteorology and the AI Success Lab. With a career that spans over 15 years, Kate has been a guiding force at the forefront of integrating technology into business operations, specializing in human-centered AI education and implementation. She is also the host of the AI Grapple podcast, where she dissects the...
2025-02-2035 minThe AI GrappleEp 21: The Future of AI in Robotic Surgery with Dr. Roger SmithIn this episode of The AI Grapple Podcast, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Dr. Roger Smith, a leading expert at the intersection of AI, robotics, and healthcare. With an extensive background as a Chief Technology Officer for AdventHealth, the U.S. Army, and Titan Corp, Roger has spent decades driving technological innovation. Now, as CEO of Model Benders and a research scientist working on robotic surgery, he explores how AI is reshaping the future of surgical procedures.
From AI-powered robotic assistants in the operating room to the potential for telesurgery and hyper-personalised patient care, Roger shares...
2025-02-1151 minThe AI GrappleEp 20: AI, Co-Parenting & Conflict - Helping Parents Communicate with Less StressIn this episode, Kate VanderVoort, founder and CEO of Social Mediology and the AI Success Lab, speaks with Tiffany Rochester, a clinical psychologist and co-parenting coach. Tiffany is the founding director of Co-Parenting Companion, an evidence-based service that helps separated parents reduce conflict, communicate effectively, and raise children across two homes with integrity and empathy.
Together, they discuss how AI can simplify co-parenting, remove emotional triggers from communication, and help parents set clear boundaries. Tiffany shares practical AI strategies that parents can implement immediately - along with the hidden risks of using AI without proper guidance.
...
2025-02-0554 minThe AI GrappleEp 19: Michael Stelzner on How AI is Shaping the Future of MarketingIn this episode, Kate vanderVoort, founder and CEO of Social Mediology and the AI Success Lab speaks with Michael Stelzner, the CEO and founder of Social Media Examiner and host of the AI Explored Podcast. Michael is a pioneer in social media marketing and a leading voice in the integration of AI in marketing. Together, they discuss how AI is transforming marketing strategies, reshaping content creation, and addressing some of the challenges marketers are facing in adopting AI. Michael shares actionable insights into leveraging AI tools, enhancing creativity, and staying ahead in the rapidly changing digital marketing landscape.
...
2025-01-0658 minThe AI GrappleEp 18: AI for Women, by Women Inside the Jaimee Revolution, with Sreyna RathWelcome to another exciting episode of The AI Grapple! Today, host Kate vanderVoort dives into the world of AI companionship with the brilliant Sreyna Rath, founder and CEO of Jaimee. Jaimee is not just another AI app - it’s an empathetic digital companion designed by women, for women. It’s there to support, uplift, and connect in ways that feel human, authentic, and meaningful.
Sreyna shares her incredible journey, from escaping the Khmer Rouge regime as a Cambodian refugee to becoming a leader in the tech world. With over 17 years of experience in digital innovation, including over...
2024-12-3049 minThe AI GrappleEp 17: Transitioning to Ethical and Human-Centered AI with Alberto ChiericiIn this episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Alberto Chierici to explore the intersection of AI, ethics, and humanity. Drawing on his extensive experience as an entrepreneur, machine learning engineer, and AI advisor, Alberto shares insights into how businesses can responsibly adopt AI while staying true to human-centered values.
From his early days building actuarial models to his current work at the Gradient Institute, Alberto brings a wealth of practical and philosophical perspectives to the table. Whether you’re a business leader, AI enthusiast, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping th...
2024-12-2354 min
AI ExploredHow to Train AI to Work Smarter: A Proven Business ProcessStruggling to make AI work effectively for your business? Want to know how to create AI assistants that truly understand your unique needs? To discover a proven process for building a dream team of custom GPTs to elevate your marketing efforts and streamline your operations, I interview Kate vanderVoort.Guest: Kate vanderVoort | Show Notes: socialmediaexaminer.com/a31Review our show on Apple Podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2024-12-1048 minThe AI GrappleEp 16: Dr Harvey Castro MD on AI, Ethics, and the Future of MedicineIn this thought-provoking episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Dr. Harvey Castro MD, a pioneer in the integration of artificial intelligence into healthcare. Dr. Castro shares his remarkable journey from developing life-saving medical apps to becoming a global advocate for AI's transformative potential in healthcare. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping patient care, tackling global challenges like workforce shortages, and addressing ethical dilemmas such as data privacy and decision-making biases.
If you're a healthcare professional, business leader, or tech enthusiast, this episode provides a roadmap to understanding and leveraging AI in t...
2024-12-0638 minThe AI GrappleEp 15: Lucas Meadowcroft: How AI Saved 70% on Productivity in 3 MonthsIn this episode of The AI Grapple Podcast, host Kate vanderVoort dives into the transformative journey of Lucas Meadowcroft, a pioneer in IT and artificial intelligence. Lucas shares his evolution from an IT support technician to the co-founder of groundbreaking ventures like CROFTI, Tribu, and Pivot. The conversation explores how AI is shaping the business landscape, from automation of mundane tasks to creating personalised, efficient systems. Together, Kate and Lucas discuss the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations of integrating AI into businesses, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to stay ahead in the digital revolution.
Key Topics Discussed:
2024-11-2849 minThe AI GrappleEp 14: Navigating AI in Parenting and Education with Stephanie WorrellIn this important episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort, Founder and CEO of Social Mediology and The AI Success Lab, sits down with Stephanie Worrell, a communications expert, professor, and the visionary founder of AI-MPOWERU. Stephanie is on a mission to help families and educators prepare for an AI-driven world, equipping parents and teachers with the knowledge and resources to guide children in using AI safely and positively. Her expertise as the author of Raising AI-Smart Kids brings practical and powerful advice to parents seeking to navigate the impact of AI on their children’s lives.
Ke...
2024-10-3149 minThe AI GrappleEp 13: Lessons in Digital Transformation with Cat MatsonIn this insightful episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate VanderVoort is joined by Cat Matson, the dynamic CEO of Impactful Presenters. Cat is an expert in helping business owners and leaders communicate with authority, authenticity, and confidence. With her extensive background in digital transformation, including a notable tenure as Brisbane’s Chief Digital Officer, Cat brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, particularly on how AI is shaping the way we interact, work, and lead in business.
Throughout this engaging discussion, Kate and Cat explore some of the most pressing questions facing today’s business prof...
2024-09-2450 minThe AI GrappleEp 12: Fusing AI with Yoga, Art, and Music: A Conversation With Rachel ZinmanIn this episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate VanderVoort sits down with Rachel Zinman - a seasoned yogi, ashram founder and best-selling author, and also an award-winning musician and a social media mentor. She has seamlessly blended the ancient wisdom of yoga with the cutting-edge technology of AI, creating a unique online yoga ashram that supports teachers and practitioners worldwide.
Rachel discusses how she uses AI in her business and the opportunities it presents for yoga teachers and small businesses. She shares her journey of incorporating AI into her work and the benefits it brings, such...
2024-09-0558 minThe AI GrappleEp 11: Dr. Tobias Fischer on the Future of Robotics and AIIn this episode of The AI Grapple, Kate vanderVoort is joined by Dr. Tobias Fischer, a Senior Lecturer at Queensland University of Technology and a Chief Investigator at the QUT Centre for Robotics. Tobi shares his fascinating journey from a remote town in Germany to becoming a leading figure in AI and robotics in Brisbane. We dive into his passion for robotic vision, the ground breaking work he's doing under the ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award, and his involvement in the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program (RRAP) to help preserve the Great Barrier Reef.
Tobi also...
2024-08-2848 minThe AI GrappleEp 8: Dan De Vries: Career Development in the Age of AIIn this episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort speaks with Dan de Vries, a career coach with two decades of corporate experience. Dan shares his insights on how AI is transforming the job market and offers advice for young professionals navigating this rapidly changing landscape.
Navigating a New Era of Work
Dan's journey from a corporate career in defence, aerospace, and simulation to becoming a career coach provides a unique perspective. He discusses the importance of mentorship for young professionals and the challenges they face in advancing their careers in a world increasingly...
2024-07-3049 minThe AI GrappleEp 7: Lee Schofield: The Importance of Soft Skills in the World of AIIn this episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort sits down with Lee Schofield, co-founder of Future For Now, to explore the evolving landscape of AI. Lee shares his journey from finance to AI, highlighting the intersection of social sciences and technology. The discussion covers the importance of AI literacy, strategies for integrating AI in organisations, and the critical role of ethics and responsibility in AI implementation.
Key Topics Discussed:
Lee's Background and Journey to AI:
Transition from finance to AI through human-centered design and market research.
The impact of discovering ChatGPT and...
2024-07-1855 minThe AI GrappleEp 6: Stu Jordan: Embracing AI Disruption with the Founder of Evolution UnleashedIn this practical episode of The AI Grapple Podcast, host Kate VanderVoort sits down with Stu Jordan, the founder of Evolution Unleashed. Known for his direct approach and passion for AI, Stu shares his journey from running a traditional agency to becoming a leader in AI adoption. He discusses the significant impact AI has had on his business and offers practical advice for businesses and individuals to prepare for the disruptive wave of AI. This episode is packed with actionable tips, real-world examples, and a visionary perspective on the future of AI in business.
Key Topics Discussed:
Stu...
2024-07-0943 minThe AI GrappleEp 5: Maneesh Juneja: Exploring Planetary Health and AIIn this episode of The AI Grapple podcast, host Kate vanderVoort from Social Mediology is joined by Maneesh Juneja, a visionary Planetary Health Futurist. Maneesh delves into the convergence of emerging technologies and their potential to create a healthier and happier world. He emphasizes the importance of making choices today that benefit everyone, not just the privileged few.
Maneesh shares his journey from analysing medical data to exploring the environmental impacts of digital health and the broader concept of planetary health. The discussion covers AI's role in healthcare, the sustainability challenges associated with AI, and the potential...
2024-07-0438 minThe AI GrappleEp 4: Julian Moore: Embracing AIIn this episode, Kate vanderVoort talks with Julian Moore, a renowned AI enthusiast and expert who has been instrumental in helping organisations leverage AI to improve their operations and achieve significant growth. Julian shares his incredible journey from negotiating on an aircraft carrier to creating an AI-powered music channel. They discuss how AI can be integrated into various business functions and the cultural shift needed within organizations to embrace AI technology. Julian also highlights some unique AI projects, including an AI board member and his success with AI-generated music.
Key Topics:
Julian's Background and Entry...
2024-07-0242 minThe AI GrappleEp 3: Tracey Spicer: Unmasking AI BiasSummary: In this episode of The AI Grapple, host Kate vanderVoort is joined by Tracey Spicer AM, an acclaimed author, journalist, and broadcaster. Tracey brings her extensive experience in media and her deep concern for ethical AI to the table, discussing the pivotal issues of bias, inclusivity, and regulation in artificial intelligence. She shares personal anecdotes, insights from her recent book "Man-Made: How the bias of the past is being built into the future," and her perspective on the future of AI.
Key Discussion Points:
Introduction to Tracey Spicer: Tracey discusses her background in journalism and...
2024-06-2743 minThe AI GrappleEp 2: Fiona Wilhelm: Empowering the Workplace: Human-Centred AI IntegrationWelcome to Episode 2 of the AI Grapple Podcast, hosted by Kate vanderVoort. In this episode, Kate is joined by Fiona Wilhelm, a renowned speaker, author, and director at KPMG Australia’s Data and AI Collaboration Centre. Fiona’s expertise lies in leveraging AI to empower employees and optimize workplace efficiency through human-centered design.
Throughout the episode, Fiona shares her journey into the world of AI, offering insights on the integration of AI in business and its potential to revolutionize daily tasks. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of not leading with technology, the...
2024-06-2156 minThe AI GrappleWelcome to The AI Grapple PodcastWelcome to the AI Grapple podcast! In this inaugural episode, hosts Kate vanderVoort and Kaz McGrath dive into the transformative world of AI. Kaz, founder and CEO of PLAI, and Kate, founder and CEO of Social Mediology, share their journeys and insights on how AI is revolutionising social impact organisations and business. They discuss the challenges of AI adoption, such as resistance to change and lack of understanding. The conversation touches on topics like bias in AI models, the fear of job loss, and the need for a culture of curiosity and play. Tune in for a dynamic discussion o...
2024-06-1447 min
But Make It HallmarkIt's Hell Down HereChinggay and Patty throw well-deserved shade at nearly every movie this week and unwillingly come up with a nice movie amidst a sea of naughty ones (the bar was on the floor for the end of Countdown to Christmas). That said, we celebrate our lezzie queens and admit that all we want for Christmas is a Sugar Daddy.Sealed with a List (Kate Findlay, Evan Roderick)Friends & Family Christmas (Humberly Gonzalez, Ali Liebert)An Ice Palace Romance (Celeste Desjardins, Marcus Rosner)The Secret Gift of Christmas (Megan Ohry, Christopher Russell)
2023-12-2232 min
Social LightsCommunity: Different Ways of Being Human - Episode 63In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Tania Cheng (She/They), Director of Process Innovation at SheEO and part of the team that creates and curates of all aspects of community at SheEO. SheEO has more than 7000 activators globally and combined online communities of over 50,000 women and non-binary people.About TaniaTania leads initiatives related to community experience design, online community engagement, feedback and evaluation, team learning and development, process mapping, and storytelling through design.Early on, Tania has been involved in in...
2021-11-1649 min
Social LightsWe Were Our Audience - Episode 62In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Nicole Millard, co-founder and community manager of Australia's biggest privately owned parenting and women's blog, Stay At Home Mum. About NicoleNicole has worked tirelessly over the last 10 years alongside her business partners, Jody and Brendan Allen, to build a huge online community for not only Stay At Home Mums, but all parents (including dads!). Their online communities have more than half a million members.As a natural progression from creating this community, Nicole created T...
2021-11-0938 min
Social LightsThe Indispensable Community - Episode 61In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Paul Bradley, who is head of global community at Agorapulse. About PaulPaul started his journey in blogging and growing social media accounts as a social media expert. He eventually started his career as a community manager at Intel and has continued to be a part of the community manager profession. BIG IDEA 1“We want to create a hub for people who are interested in this industry to better themselves.” (19:52)Paul shared...
2021-11-0242 min
Social LightsThe Essence of Community - Episode 60In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Lou Duggan, founder of Cake 2 The Rescue, an award-winning DIY cake kit company which has helped more than 40,000 Australian families pour their love into a homemade cake.With a background in engineering and design, Lou has spent the last ten years building Cake 2 The Rescue into a thriving e-commerce business, with more than 250 cake kit designs, and a loyal online audience of 60,000+ cake fans.About LouAs a talented creative entrepreneur, Lou is a big b...
2021-10-2658 min
Social LightsGive What You Have - Episode 59In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Chris Field, CEO and founder of Mercy Project, an innovative nonprofit working to end child labor trafficking in Ghana, Africa. Outside of his role at Mercy Project, he is an award-winning author, speaker, business consultant, college lecturer, four time Guinness world record holder, viral sensation, 27-time marathoner, and ice cream lover. About ChrisChris’ passion around community is centered on all of us getting more comfortable with what it is that we have to offer. He believes that w...
2021-10-1246 min
Social LightsBuilding a Community on Empathy - Episode 58In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Jenn Donovan, marketing thought leader, change-maker coach and mentor for small businesses, a keynote speaker and a podcaster. She is the founder of an extremely successful community Facebook group Buy from a Bush Business, which currently has about 330,000 members. She's also co-founder of social enterprise Spend With Us -- Australia's answer to Amazon, for rural and regional small businesses. About JennJenn started her career in law, for 18 years, but later found her passion in social media an...
2021-09-1442 min
Social LightsCommunity at the Heart of Everything - Episode 57In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Peace Mitchell, investor, international keynote speaker, co-founder of the Women's Business School and Ausmumpreneur, author and host of Best And Brightest podcast, Australian ambassador for women in tech and a Forbes.com business expert. Peace has a community of over 50,000 women and believes that investing in women in purpose led business is the number one way to change the world. About PeacePeace is inspired every day by the incredible women that are running businesses, starting businesses, scaling...
2021-09-0726 min
Social LightsCreating Intentional Communities - Episode 56In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Venessa Paech, Australia’s leading expert in online communities and community management. She has led community for Lonely Planet, REA Group, Envato and Australia Post, and her private clients include: ABC, AASW, Teach for Australia, QUT, University of Sydney, SANE and Woolworths.About VenessaVenessa is Co-Founder and Director of Australian Community Managers (ACM), the national centre of excellence for online community management training and resources. She started building intentional communities, with a mission of he...
2021-09-0153 min
Social LightsCommunity: Truly Seen, Heard and Known - Episode 55In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Allie Fernando, Director of Brand Experience at Kajabi. She has been with Kajabi for four years – exceling in the many different roles since she started including social media marketing and partnerships. Allie has also been responsible for the massive growth of the Kajabi community with 27,000 highly engaged loyal customers in their Facebook Group alone. She is passionate in bringing the Kajabi brand to life through culturally relevant offline events and experiential programs that connect people in meaningful ways with the brand....
2021-08-2448 min
Social LightsThe Age of Authenticity on Facebook - Episode 54In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Kara Cronin, community manager, relationship builder and renowned public speaker. Kara is the Community Manager of Community Partnerships at Facebook and is leading the community experience for the Facebook Certified Community Manager program.About KaraKara has been building community since the age of 6. She fell in love with community building while working as a Sorority Leadership Consultant, and continued pursuing her passion while leading communities at theSkimm and Shine. Kara is now a Community Manger at...
2021-08-1134 min
Social Media Lab LIVE!The Science of Growing a Community w/Kate vanderVoortHow To Grow a Community on Facebook
Want to GROW your community the right way?
Join us on episode #103 of the Social Media Lab LIVE where our guest, Kate vanderVoort, will dive all into the data of growing a community with SCIENCE!
Who is Kate vanderVoort?
Kate vanderVoort is Founder and CEO of Social Mediology and host of the Social Lights Podcast where she interviews change makers and community managers on how they grow and activate customer communities. She has worked with over 3000 businesses and not for profits on social media...
2021-08-1055 min
Social LightsThe Power of Events to Build Community - Episode 53In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Beth McIntyre, Head of Community at Bevy, a leading provider of community software, powering live community events both in-person and virtual. Bevy’s community, which is called CMX, is the world's largest and most passionate network of community professionals. About BethBeth is the Head of Community at CMX. She manages the ever-growing Facebook group, the bustling CMX Slack Workspace, and the incredible CMX Pro Community, CMX's premium space. CMX is the world's largest and mo...
2021-08-0337 min
Social LightsThe Key to Community Culture - Episode 52In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Lucy Good, founder of Beanstalk Single Mums and the popular Facebook group, The Single Mum Vine. Lucy has been named as a finalist for the 2018 AusMumpreneur Awards in two categories: Making A Difference (business) and Women Changing the World.About LucyLucy Good is the founder of Beanstalk Single Mums, an online space which empowers single mothers to re-find their potential and re-build their confidence through a website that delivers targeted information and support. Lucy works with...
2021-07-2043 min
Social LightsOnline Communities and Social Selling - Episode 51In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Ian Moyse, Chief Revenue Officer at OneUp Sales, and a long-time sales leader. He was awarded the accolade of UK Sales Director of the year by BESMA (British Excellence in Sales Management Awards) and in 2019 and 2020 was listed in the top 50 Sales Keynote speakers by Top Sales World. Ian has built many large communities on social media and is a social influencer for SAP, Oracle, Huawei, Commvault and more.About IanWith a passion for computing since...
2021-07-1339 min
Social LightsShow Up 100% - Episode 50In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Petrea King who is CEO of the Quest for Life Foundation which she established in 1989. She is a well-known author, inspirational keynote speaker, teacher and facilitator. She is also qualified as a naturopath, herbalist, clinical hypnotherapist, yoga and meditation teacher.About PetreaMore than 125,000 people have attended residential programs or counselling with Petrea and her team since 1985. Petrea has been a regular guest on ABC Radio Sydney for almost 20 years – on Richard Glover’s Mid-Week Conference and Night...
2021-06-2943 min
Social LightsYour Voice Matters - Episode 49In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Tom Dawkins, Co-Founder and CEO of social impact crowdfunding platform and innovation agency StartSomeGood. In addition to running the platform with the best project success rate in cause crowdfunding they partner with companies, funders and governments to inspire, unearth, skill-up and launch innovative social impact projects.About TomTom has worked for leading companies and organisations like Ashoka, HopeLab and The Australian Centre for Social Innovation. He founded the award-winning youth organisation Vibewire, opened the first co-working...
2021-06-221h 05
Social LightsConnecting Parents- Episode 48In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Edwina Sharrock, Founder of Birth Beat, a digital health tech platform revolutionising the way we prepare for birth.About EdwinaEdwina Sharrock, is a passionate health advocate who has embraced technology and innovation to build an online childbirth education platform. She has over 14 years’ experience as a midwife, neonatal intensive care nurse and emergency nurse. She’s delivered 100’s of babies and helped 1000’s of parents prepare for birth.It is Edwina’s passion for all expect...
2021-06-1529 min
Social LightsYou Can't Outsource Human Connections - Episode 47In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Brandon C White who is an entrepreneur and author and is the Founder and CEO of the number-one social networking and e-commerce site for sport fisherman on the internet.About BrandonBrandon C. White is an entrepreneur with two exists (so far), angel investor, former venture capitalist, and worked in Marketing at a $200b internet company (AOL). Brandon started his professional career in technology as a pioneer on the Internet in 1996 as the Founder/CEO of Worldwide...
2021-06-0849 min
Social LightsWatering Holes Where Humans Gather - Episode 46In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Paul Zelizer, one of the first business coaches to focus on the needs of social entrepreneurs and social impact businesses. Paul is the founder of Awarepreneurs, a top social entrepreneur podcast and online community.About PaulPaul has helped hundreds achieve their impact and financial goals whilst learning to create an enjoyable life. He's the former Director of Social Media for Wisdom 2.0, one of the premier conscious business brands in the world. In that role, he helped...
2021-06-0150 min
Social Lights7 Steps to Building a Fanatical Community - Episode 45In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Warren Carlyle, founder and CEO of OctoNation, the world’s largest octopus fan club, and not for profit organization that inspires conservation of the ocean by teaching the world about octopuses. He is also the co-founder of the Community Leaders Association and is a community building strategist who works with purpose driven brands and influencers to build highly engaged online communities.About WarrenWarren and his communities have been featured and gotten the attention of celebrities and gl...
2021-05-2753 min
Social LightsClarity of Vision - Episode 44In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with David Trotter. David is a business growth consultant, and creator of Rise Up Creatives, who's dedicated to helping new business owners rise above their biggest barriers to reach their greatest goals.About DavidDavid is the host of the Inspiration Rising podcast with over 190 episodes, featuring female entrepreneurs and leaders sharing their experience and wisdom. His latest book is entitled Empower to Rise: The Secret to Embracing Your True Identity Uncovering Your Superpowers and Bringing Your Inspiration...
2021-05-1843 min
Social LightsArtificial Intelligence in Mental Health S4 - Episode 3In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Briony Schadegg, co-founder and director of HCI Insights, which is better known as Frank App.About BrionyBriony wants to make a positive impact on the world and it was this motivation that inspired her to become a police officer. In her role within the police, Briony undertook several advanced training programs in crime reduction which expanded on areas of criminology and victimology. Over her years of service, she was witness to many instances of...
2021-05-1140 min
Social LightsPoly, Omni, Modular What? S4 - Episode 2In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Dustin Miller who is an omni content creator, host of the Polymath Polycast, and creator of the Modular Degree Framework.About DustinAs an aspiring polymath, Dustin created PolyInnovator as a foundational means to build out the various careers he wanted out of life (A Polymath of Innovation if you will). He’s on a mission to create a Modular Education Platform to revolutionize how we approach education as whole and is currently building the Modular Degree Sy...
2021-05-0436 min
The Brand Marketing ShowPutting Community First And Growing Your Business On Social MediaThis episode is a MUST LISTEN for every brand owner who has an online presence. Whether you are a seasoned pro on social media, starting out or simply frustrated about constantly creating content on social media this episode with Kate vanderVoort is going to change the game for you and how you view social media as part of your business strategy. Community and creating content for your audience are topics I'm big on right now but I know so many are you feel overwhelmed about the thought of being on social media 24/7 and having to constantly create...
2021-04-2754 min
Social LightsBuy Local. Buy Rural S4 - Episode 1In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Sarah Britz, who’s an e-commerce specialist and founder of Spend With Us, an online initiative to support rural and regional small businesses impacted by fires, floods and COVID.About SarahSarah loves meeting new people, connecting and helping them to grow their businesses, especially using her skills and knowledge to help them get online, get through difficult times and make a difference.She is a web designer and developer and has been building websites fo...
2021-04-2018 min
Social LightsHelping Made Easy S3 - Episode 10In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Jacqui Bloom, the founder of the Helping Hub. About JacquiThe Helping Hub is an online gift platform and registry service that allows people to support friends and family in need with thoughtful gifts and practical support such as laundry services, cleaning services, meal, delivery, pet care, personal care services, and anything else that might be useful, purposeful or meaningful when people are going through a hard time (or just because!). Jacqui studied business management...
2021-04-0636 min
Business Owners Smashing It OnlineHyper personalisation The Future Of Social Media For Your Business with Kate VanderVoortMost small business owners struggle with creating consistent, engaging content that actually connects with their audience. This session will help you understand your customer’s world, tell authentic stories, and design content that builds trust, visibility, and long-term results.Join our free live training every Tuesday from 6–7:30pm AEST👉 Register here: https://ezyurl.co/bosioWhat You’ll LearnHow to uncover what your audience truly cares aboutThe role of storytelling in building credibility and trustPractical tools for researching your customer avatarWhy generosity with content c...
2021-03-301h 03
Social LightsBelieve in Yourself S3 - Episode 9In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Trudy Rankin, who is the director of West Island Digital and the founder of the Online Business Lift Off program. About Trudy RankinTrudy Rankin is a digital strategist, an online business coach and a consultant. After more than 15 years working with big organisations, helping them use digital technology to achieve their goals, she wanted to continue her practice of giving to the next generation through work experience. After starting West Island Digital in 2015, she was on th...
2021-03-2927 min
Social LightsBusiness for Good S3 - Episode 8In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Paul Dunn, the co-founder of accountants for good and B1G1 business for good.About PaulPaul is a four-time TEDx speaker. He is a senior fellow in one of the world's leading think tanks and consults with the mentors of cutting-edge businesses around the world. He was honoured as a social innovation fellow in his new home of Singapore, something he shares with film star and philanthropist Jet Li and Walmart chairman, Rob Walton. ...
2021-03-2348 min
Social LightsLego in Lockdown S3 - Episode 7In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Ben Teoh & Emma Carbone, founders of Bricks N Bytes. Bricks N Bytes was created in response to COVID restrictions to continue providing kids and parents a way to discover more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM), how to be creative with Lego and, find fun educational apps.About Ben Teoh and Emma CarboneBen and Emma are from the City of Marion Libraries in South Australia. After being forced to close all the libraries because of...
2020-12-0920 min
Social LightsCreating Profound Connections S3 - Episode 6In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Luke Faccini, founder of The Sponge that specialises in helping the next generation of business owners rebrand with purpose.About Luke FacciniIn 1999 he started his professional brand design journey since then he has helped thousands of people put their brands on the map. While beginning as a trained graphic designer, the entrepreneurial drive took him on a path of transformation. He has experienced first-hand the impact that purpose and values have in business and the connection...
2020-12-0230 min
Social LightsArtificial Intelligence Creating Impact S3 - Episode 5In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Evan Shellshear, the Head of Analytics at Biarri, a world-leading mathematical and predictive modelling company.About Evan ShellshearEvan is an expert in artificial intelligence with a Ph.D. in Game Theory from the Nobel Prize winning University of Bielefeld (in Germany). He has many years of international experience in the development and design of AI tools for a variety of industries having worked with Australia's top companies on all aspects of advanced analytical solutions. He is...
2020-11-1730 min
Social LightsRandom Acts of Kindness - S3 - Episode 4In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with M.J. Ryan, change expert, thought leader and one of the creators of the New York Times bestselling Random Acts of Kindness series and the author of The Happiness Makeover (nominated for the 2005 Books for Better Living award in the Motivational category), Attitudes of Gratitude, The Power of Patience, Trusting Yourself, The Giving Heart, and 365 Health and Happiness Boosters, among other titles. Altogether, there are 1.75 million copies of her titles in print.About M.J. RyanM...
2020-11-1028 min
Social LightsSelf Care for Entrepreneurs - S3 - Episode 3In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Tony Loyd, former Fortune 500 executive with companies such as John Deere, Medtronic, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Tony is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, business coach, and podcast host.About TonyTony Loyd is a leadership development expert. He helps purpose-driven business leaders to thrive in life so that they can connect with others and contribute to society. He is a former Fortune 500 executive from companies such as John Deere, Medtronic, and Buffalo Wild Wings.Having w...
2020-11-0334 min
Social LightsReimagining the Education System - S3 - Episode 2In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Eddie Blass, CEO and Founder of Inventorium.About Eddie and InventoriumHaving grown up in Central London and in a comprehensive school where white was the minority, she still came out on top, even with minimal interest in schooling. This experience taught Eddie much about white privilege.Inventorium began as a passion project because Eddie truly felt that the education system was favoring some people over the others, which has driven all her life. Designed...
2020-10-2741 min
Social LightsAmplifying Women's Voices - S3 - Episode 1In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Vicki Saunders, Founder of SheEO—a network of women focused on radical generosity.About Vicki and SheEOHaving grown up on a farm with her parents and three brothers, Vicki learned to work hard very early in life. She grew up in an environment where they would dream at the dinner table and build these dreams the next day. There wasn’t a lot of discussion on failure. If her family had a vision, they would try to e...
2020-10-2032 min
Social LightsFinancing Impact - S2 - Episode 4In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Sandy Blackburn, Founder of Social Outcomes and Author of Holding Up the Sky.About Sandy and Social OutcomesSandy works in the social impact space—and what lights her up day after day is thinking of better ways to do things in that space. Her superpower, according to her friends, is being able to see through walls. Give her information, and she’ll be able to sort through that information into a pattern that makes sense and turn...
2020-03-0938 min
Social LightsSingle Use Water Bottle Solutions - S2 - Episode 3In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Jill Ford, Founder of Refill New Zealand.About Jill and RefillJill originally worked in the Social Marketing industry. On one visit to the UK, she was involved with a plastic pollution campaign—which was run by the same people who set up Refill in the UK. She admits that though she was aware of the plastic problem, she was not that aware of how bad the problem was.Upon returning home, Jill decided to se...
2020-03-0332 min
Social LightsPersonalised Giving - S2 - Episode 2In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Juliette Wright, Founder and Director of GIVIT.org.au—an online donation and giving platform.ABOUT JULIETTE and GIVITA former nutritionist who specialised in autoimmune diseases, cancer, and infertility—Juliette Wright has always wanted to help people. However, she realised one day that she wanted to help out in a different manner. What started out as a person’s simple quest to donate baby clothes to a charity that really needed it has snowballed into J...
2020-02-2442 min
Social LightsCommunity Looking After It's Own - S2 - Episode 1In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Ryan Elson, who tells us about how his multiple endeavors—Tribe, EmployMeet, and the Guardian App—and how these came about.ABOUT RYAN, TRIBE, EMPLOYMEET, and GUARDIAN APPSometimes, we as a society create systems that obviously don’t work, yet we continue to do them anyway because that’s how it’s always been done. Ryan has always had an eye for broken systems, and so he does his best to go in and improve them. Impro...
2020-02-1631 min
Social LightsA Positive Birth - Episode 8In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort chats with Melissa Spilsted, Founder and Director of Hypnobirthing Australia and Hypnobubs.ABOUT MELISSA, HYPNOBIRTHING AUSTRALIA, AND HYPNOBUBSMelissa started out in the travel industry, and would travel to new places for days, weeks, and even months at a time, trying to find out her reason for being. Upon arriving in Australia, Melissa began to teach travel and tourism to others. She had finally found her passion—teaching. She completed an education degree and a drama degree, but realized th...
2019-12-1730 min
Social LightsOur Plastics Problem - Episode 7** Please note - there is a slight echo during the asking of questions. We apologise for this issue in this episode.In this episode of the Social Lights Podcast, podcast host and Social Mediology founder Kate vanderVoort shares a conversation with Darren Lomman, founder of Greenbatch.ABOUT DARREN and GREENBATCHAs a child, Darren was a tinkerer. He liked to pull toys apart, and wanted to see what was inside and how things worked. Naturally, he took up Engineering at the University of Western Australia. Darren’s ultimate goal was to do good in...
2019-12-0538 min