

Future Fit Leadership
Sadhana Smiles
Welcome to Future Fit Leadership a podcast for emerging and experienced leaders to learn, grow and become future fit!
There has been a global shift in how we lead people. Traditional models are being challenged, and our workplaces are now dynamic.
In this podcast you will hear and connect with leaders, CEO’s and change makers who will challenge the status quo and share their future ready strategies to unlock your growth.
No matter where you are on your leadership journey this podcast will give you practical ideas and tools to help you think outside the square and become a change maker in your industry.
Future Fit leadership is your place for bite sized learning, for time poor executives.
Contact Sadhana Smiles via email: sadhanasmiles@realchange.com.au
Or connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasmiles/
There has been a global shift in how we lead people. Traditional models are being challenged, and our workplaces are now dynamic.
In this podcast you will hear and connect with leaders, CEO’s and change makers who will challenge the status quo and share their future ready strategies to unlock your growth.
No matter where you are on your leadership journey this podcast will give you practical ideas and tools to help you think outside the square and become a change maker in your industry.
Future Fit leadership is your place for bite sized learning, for time poor executives.
Contact Sadhana Smiles via email: sadhanasmiles@realchange.com.au
Or connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasmiles/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 24, 2025 • 40min
The Future of Work is Family Friendly - with Jodi Geddes
In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Jodi Geddes – co-founder of Circle In, keynote speaker, and a passionate advocate for caregivers in the workplace. Jodi shares her remarkable journey of building (and selling) a global platform that supports working parents and caregivers across life stages – from parental leave to menopause and beyond. We talk about the reality of returning to work after children, what true empathy in leadership looks like, and how burnout can creep up on even the strongest among us. Jodi opens up about her personal experiences with burnout, the power of vulnerability, and why creating a psychologically safe, family-friendly workplace isn’t just nice to have – it’s essential. We also explore how leaders can role model care, build trust through storytelling, and rethink flexibility in a hybrid world. This is a must-listen for leaders ready to embrace whole-person leadership and for anyone navigating the beautiful, messy juggle of career and caregiving. 🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 5, 2025 • 43min
Its a Mob Thing - Dr Ngaree Blow on Health, Leadership & Community
What does it mean to decolonise the health system? How do we shift from a system that wasn’t built for First Nations communities to one that recognises, respects, and integrates Indigenous knowledge and leadership? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Ngaree Blow, a proud First Nations woman and a leader in public health, medical education, and Indigenous health advocacy. We explore her journey into medicine, the challenges she faced as an Indigenous medical student, and the systemic barriers that continue to impact First Nations health outcomes. Dr. Blow shares her vision for a healthcare system that is truly inclusive, where Indigenous ways of healing are valued, where representation in leadership drives better policy, and where First Nations communities no longer face the same health inequities that have existed for generations. We also discuss It’s a Mob Thing, her grassroots initiative that empowers Indigenous communities through culture and storytelling, and the upcoming It’s a Mob Thing Festival in Geelong on March 15. This conversation is about leadership, systemic change, and the power of representation. If we want a better, more equitable future, we need to start by listening to those who are leading the change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 4, 2025 • 36min
Beyond the talkfest that IWD can be. How can leaders activate women's potential as experts
Every year on International Women’s Day, we celebrate women’s achievements, we hear inspiring stories, and we applaud progress. But at our current pace, gender parity is still 130 years away—which begs the question: are we actually moving forward, or are we just talking about it? This year’s IWD theme is "Accelerate Action," and that’s exactly what we’re doing in this episode with Penny Locaso, whose latest research in her white paper Hidden Figures: Where Are All the Female Experts? exposes a critical barrier holding women back—their reluctance to own their expertise. We unpack the four key themes from her research, from the "ick" factor of the word expert to the invisible checklist women feel they have to complete before they step forward. We explore how fear of judgment, lack of visibility, and outdated leadership norms continue to sideline highly capable women—and why it’s time for leaders to take responsibility for creating a system where expertise isn’t just recognised, but actively elevated. This isn’t just a conversation for women. It’s a call to action for every leader, every organisation, and every decision-maker. If we truly want gender equity, we can’t just celebrate IWD—we need to use it as a moment of accountability. Penny shares powerful yet practical ways for leaders to step up, including one of the simplest but most impactful actions: publicly recognising and naming the expertise of the women around you. It’s time to stop talking about change and start driving it. If you’re serious about shifting the dial on gender equality, this is the episode you need to hear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 25, 2025 • 1h
Can Optimism Change the World? Victor Perton Thinks So
What makes you optimistic? It’s a question Victor Perton, founder of the Centre for Optimism, asks everyone he meets—and in this episode, he shares why infectious optimism is the key to great leadership, resilience, and joy. Optimistic leaders inspire confidence, drive innovation, and create cultures where people thrive. They see opportunities where others see obstacles and bring out the best in their teams, even in challenging times. From his family’s incredible refugee journey to shaping leadership narratives across the world, Victor’s passion for optimism is magnetic. He dives into how small habits—like asking "What's been the best thing in your day?"—can transform workplaces, politics, and personal lives. If you’ve ever needed a reason to embrace optimism, this episode will leave you inspired to find the joy in every moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 18, 2025 • 47min
Reimagining Home Ownership - Innovative Solutions for Australia's Housing Crisis with Lucinda Hartely
Australia needs 1.2 million new homes by 2029, but where will they go? And more importantly—who can afford them? In this episode of Future Fit Leadership, I sit down with Lucinda Hartley, urban designer and co-founder of Mondas, to unpack the biggest challenges and opportunities in housing today. From affordability struggles to alternative homeownership models, Lucinda shares practical solutions that could change the way Australians buy, rent, and invest in property. 🎙️ We discuss:🏡 Why housing is more expensive than ever—and what needs to change📊 The role of data & AI in predicting the next property hotspots💡 How shared equity models are helping buyers get into the market sooner🌆 The impact of urban design on affordability, well-being, and community If you’re a real estate professional, investor, or homebuyer, this episode is packed with insights you need to hear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 11, 2025 • 46min
Harness ChatGPT as your new team member with Leanne Shelton
🎙️ Welcome to Future Fit Leadership! AI is transforming the way we work, communicate, and lead—but are we using it effectively, or are we losing the human touch? In this episode, I sit down with Leanne Shelton, founder of Human Edge AI Training, to explore how leaders can embrace AI without sacrificing authenticity. From optimising communication to enhancing productivity, Leanne shares how to integrate AI into leadership while keeping the human element front and centre. If you're a leader navigating the future of work, this conversation is for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 4, 2025 • 31min
State of the market - Property trends, Interest Rates & What's Ahead in 2025 with Nerida Connisbee
Welcome to our first episode of Future Fit Leadership for 2025. Australia’s property market is constantly shifting—house prices, interest rates, global trends, and government policies all play a role. But what does it mean for you? In this episode we break down the latest data, analyse key market trends across every state, and discuss the impact of economic forces—(both local and global)—on property prices, affordability, and investment opportunities. Join us as we cut through the noise with expert insights and real talk about what’s driving Australian real estate. Let’s dive into the numbers that matter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 19, 2024 • 6min
That is a wrap for 2024
Thank you to all our guests for an awesome 2024, to our listeners for all your support. We look forward to sharing amazing guests with you in 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 9, 2024 • 39min
Navigating Business Growth: Strategies for Female Entrepreneurs with Michelle Broadbent
This week we are focusing on female entrepreneurs who may be feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in your business? Michelle Broadbent shares her remarkable journey from being the "woman behind the woman" in media startups to becoming a sought-after business coach. Discover practical insights on: Breaking through business growth barriers The importance of financial planning before launching Avoiding common partnership pitfalls Why taking breaks is crucial for business success Strategies for scaling from six-figure to seven-figure revenues Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, considering starting a business, or looking to transform your current venture, this episode offers invaluable wisdom on creating a business that truly supports the life you want to live. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 1, 2024 • 52min
Untrashing the Planet, One Pair of Sunglasses at a Time with Nik Robinson from Good Citizens
What happens when a family decides to turn plastic waste into stylish, sustainable eyewear? Meet Nik Robinson and his children, who are revolutionising recycling through their brand, Good Citizens. In this inspiring episode, Nik shares the incredible journey of transforming 600ml plastic bottles into high-quality sunglasses, while involving his entire family - including his kids - in the mission to "untrash the planet". Discover how a simple conversation with his children sparked a business that's not just about making glasses, but about creating meaningful environmental change. Learn about: Turning 100% recycled plastic into fashionable eyewear The power of involving kids in entrepreneurial thinking Principles of sustainable business Innovative approaches to recycling Perfect for entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and anyone who believes small actions can create big impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


