The GovMaker Podcast

In 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 networks in driving social change. Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!

In 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, and historical figures. Join the conversation on the Pond-Deshpande Social media platforms and secure your spot today for GovMaker 2024 at govmaker2024.eventbrite.ca!

Join 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.

Join 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.

Join 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.

Join 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.

Nicholas 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, who championed social progress and stood up for his beliefs. This discussion shares insights into the power of bridging boundaries, cultivating long-term visions, and fostering collaboration across different sectors to drive positive change in social policy.

In 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.

In 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 of maintaining the network's relationships and pathways for future collaborations.

In 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 created a more just and equitable society for all New Brunswickers. Tune in to learn more about the importance of the NBSPRN and its work in advancing social policy initiatives in the province.