GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

Government comms has shifted from crafting messages to shaping meaning in a fast-moving digital world. Host David Pembroke is joined by Brenda Duran, director of external affairs at LA County’s Justice Care and Opportunities Department, to reflect on what has changed since they last spoke in 2019. They discuss the COVID-19-driven digital acceleration, the rise of direct-to-public communication, and how misinformation has become a high-volume, targeted threat. Brenda also shares practical approaches to faster approvals, building trusted messenger networks, and creating content that earns attention, before looking ahead to why storytelling and public trust matter even more in an AI-shaped environment.KEY POINTS:COVID-19 accelerated digital government for good Government teams had to pivot quickly to virtual briefings, real-time updates and direct-to-public channels, permanently changing how service information is delivered.Treat misinformation as a trust and security problem Countering false narratives now requires proactive “pre-bunking”, real-time monitoring and partnerships with trusted community messengers, not just reactive corrections.Fix approval bottlenecks by redesigning decision rights Define preauthorised “lanes” for routine updates, rapid approvals and high-risk crisis content so teams can move at the speed of public need.Act like a publisher, not a noticeboard Build weekly content plans, create evergreen explainers, use subject matter experts on camera, and turn government data into meaningful stories people can use.In an AI-driven world, storytelling becomes the differentiator As content volume increases, trust becomes scarcer—public sector communicators add value by creating narratives that restore context, clarity and humanity.Links mentioned in the podcast:AMEC Barcelona Principles: Measurement principles for communication (outputs, outtakes, outcomes) https://amecorg.com/barcelona-principles-3-0/AMEC (International Association for the Measurement and Evaluation of Communication): Organisation behind the Barcelona Principles and comms measurement resources https://amecorg.com/Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture (edited by Melissa Vela-Williamson): Book mentioned (Brenda Duran contributed) https://www.routledge.com/Latinas-in-Public-Relations-Shaping-Communications-Communities-and-Culture/Vela-Williamson/p/book/9781032547805If you enjoyed this podcast then please:Follow, rate, and review on Apple PodcastsFollow and rate on SpotifyWatch our videos on the GovComms YouTube pageConnect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!The GovComms Institute podcast is produced by contentgroup.

Governments cannot afford to keep talking about AI as a future challenge when citizens are already expecting better, faster, and more human-centred services. In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke speaks with Pete Williams (Chief Edge Officer at Deloitte) about why the real risk is not moving too fast, but moving too slowly. Together, they explore how AI can help government shift from clunky documents and static websites to conversational, accessible and practical service delivery. From internal capability and leadership to chatbots and global examples, this episode is a clear-eyed look at what government needs to do next and why the right time to act is now. #GovComms #AI #government #communication #Deloitte

Governments are full of data, but it’s insight that drives real change.In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke joins Garrett Tyler-Parker, Director of Analysis and Insights at Tourism Research Australia.Together, they break down how good research transforms spreadsheets into strategy.Garrett shares why formative research should shape a campaign from the start, how human stories give meaning to dashboards, and what’s changing fast as mobility data and AI enter the mix.Find out how to make evidence easier to understand, harder to ignore, and far more useful for the people who need to act on it. Key PointsInsight beats information: government (and tourism) are awash with data, but the real job is turning the ‘what’ into the ‘so what’Start research early: use formative research to shape the campaign, rather than using it to evaluate afterBlend big data with human context: numbers show patterns, but storytelling makes evidence more memorable

As we step into 2026, now's the time to ensure everyone's voice is heard.In this episode of GovComms, we revisit host David Pembroke's conversation with Richard Etienne: internal communications expert, author of The Introvert’s Survival Guide, and founder of The Introvert Space. Together, they explore how introverts can lead, influence, and thrive in workplaces that often reward volume over value.From overcoming self-doubt to navigating hybrid work, Richard shares powerful, practical strategies to help introverts find their voice without having to shout. He also offers advice for leaders on how to build inclusive teams where every personality type can succeed.Whether you identify as an introvert, manage one, or simply want to create more inclusive and effective teams, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable tips.Discussed in this episode:Why introverts often go unheard and how to change thatHow to build your personal brand without self-promotionThe hidden strengths introverts bring to leadershipWhat Theresa May taught Richard about quiet influence at the topShow notes:The Introvert Space | Richard EtienneThe Introvert’s Survival Guide | Richard EtienneQuiet | Susan CainBlog | GovComms Podcast

In an era of constant disruption, government communicators are being asked to lead without all the answers.In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke is joined by leadership experts Dr Marianne Broadbent and Adam Kyriacou to explore how communications teams can navigate AI and rising expectations, whilst building trust and impact.It’s an insightful discussion revealing why comms professionals are no longer at the ‘end of the line’, but rather central figures in enterprise performance.Join David, Marianne and Adam as they pull back the curtain on how to lead in the face of transformation.Discussed in this EpisodeHow to integrate AI responsibly while maintaining a human-centred approachWhy trust, purpose, and psychological safety are now core leadership capabilities in the public sectorPractical ways comms teams can support senior leaders and build public trust

What if better communication starts with listening, not telling?In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Natasha Plowman: a communications strategist, advisor, and founder of Spinning Red. Together they explore how listening, empathy, and authentic storytelling can transform the way governments engage citizens.From unpacking the ineffectiveness of the old ‘broadcast’ model to examining the use of buzzwords in sustainability conversations, Natasha urges listeners to imbue their stories with honesty, empathy, and curiosity.In a world where government communicators are facing rapid transformation, this episode offers a timely reminder. Meaningful change begins with understanding your audience — not just speaking louder.DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEHow listening creates more effective and trusted communicationWays to communicate across five generations in the workplaceHow storytelling connects people and drives understandingWhy transparency builds credibility during complex changeHow curiosity and self-awareness improve leadership communicationSHOW NOTESSpinning Red | Natasha PlowmanBreak the Silence Collective | Natasha PlowmanEmily’s List | Emily’s List AustraliaHigher Ground | Alison TaylorBlog | GovComms Podcast LinkedIn | GovComms