Data Discipline Is The Foundation of Government Innovation - Josh Wagner - Episode 147
Release Date: 08/24/2025
Data-Driven Corrections: Turning Operational Data into Actionable Insights - Sylvester Hubbard III - Episode 159
Public Sector Podcast
In this insightful episode of the Public Sector Podcast, Sylvester Hubbard, Director of Enterprise Application Services at the Virginia Department of Corrections, takes listeners inside the complex world of data-driven corrections. He explains how the Department manages vast amounts of data—from inmate management and facility security to re-entry programs and workforce operations—and the challenge of connecting these isolated systems to drive smarter, safer, and more effective decision-making. Hubbard shares how his team is using AI, analytics, and modernization to transform correctional...
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Public Affairs in the Age of AI - Elliot Stein - Episode 158
Public Sector Podcast
When a pre-ransomware cyberattack hit St Vincent’s Health Australia, Acting National Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications Elliot Stein found himself leading through uncertainty. In this episode, he takes us inside the tense 72 hours that followed—where every decision, from going public early to engaging government partners, was guided by one principle: trust. Elliot also reflects on the broader lessons learned—from transparent crisis communication to the irreplaceable role of human connection in an age of AI. As he shares candid insights on leadership, reputation, and...
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Estonia's vision for a data and AI driven society: leading the world in data economy - Ott Velsberg - Episode 157
Public Sector Podcast
In this episode, we explore alongside Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, how Estonia—a global pioneer in digital transformation—is redefining what’s possible with data and artificial intelligence. As one of the most digitally advanced nations in the world, Estonia is moving beyond e-governance to integrate AI across its economy, public services, and daily life. With a firm commitment to transparency, ethics, and citizen trust, the country is building a future where innovation and accountability go hand in hand. ...
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Securing the Queensland Olympics as the world descends - Dr David Tuffley - Episode 156
Public Sector Podcast
This episode featuring Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University, dives into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity at major sporting events, where protecting critical systems like ticketing, broadcasting, and athlete data is non-negotiable. Listeners will hear how organisers implement continuous monitoring to detect and respond to threats in real time, and why success depends on seamless collaboration between local,...
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Creating the Tech Foundation to Enable Modern Digital Service Delivery: Unpacking Emerging 2026 Priorities - Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond - Episode 155
Public Sector Podcast
Speaking from the perspective of a non-technologist, Jared Cowley Grimmond, Deputy Director General for Water Resource Management, shares the Department’s ongoing digital transformation journey in Queensland. He highlights the importance of getting the foundations right—modernising legacy systems, moving to cloud platforms, and creating online portals—while ensuring services remain accessible for all citizens, not just digital users. Jared emphasises the role of people and focus in making transformation stick: aligning staff, listening to customers, starting small, and learning from both...
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Insights from a Digital Transformation Advisor - Michelle Simpson - Episode 154
Public Sector Podcast
In this episode, we catch up with Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA as she dives into the biggest hurdles agencies are facing right now—and more importantly, how to tackle them head-on. From the power of transparency and smarter vendor management, to making the most of the Assurance Review and other Digital Government support, you’ll hear practical insights that can turn challenges into opportunities for success. Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of...
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Building the Shield: AI and Automation in Public Sector Transformation - Dan Wilkens - Episode 153
Public Sector Podcast
Join Amanda Garcia and Dan Wilkins, CISO for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, as they explore the intersection of AI, automation, and collaboration in public sector cybersecurity. Dan shares practical strategies for building a proactive defense, leveraging emerging tech, and fostering the partnerships essential for resilience in an evolving threat landscape. Dan Wilkens, Chief Information Security Officer, Arizona Department of Economic Security For more great insights head to
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AI Unlocked: From Data to Government Insights - Dony Alex - Episode 152
Public Sector Podcast
In this episode, Dony Alex, Director of the Data Centre of Excellence with the Government of Alberta, discusses how sustainable data platforms and federated ecosystems can transform siloed information into AI-ready products. He explores the challenges of data governance, the balance between innovation and responsible controls, and how generative AI is democratizing access to insights. Tune in to discover actionable takeaways for building a collaborative data culture and learn why governments can’t afford to fall behind in the race to turn data into impact. Dony Alex, Director – Data Centre...
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Cyber-resilience, fostering skills development and supporting diversity - Stephen Woods - Episode 151
Public Sector Podcast
In this episode, Stephen Woods from the WA Department of Justice explores why cyber resilience is essential for protecting sensitive public data and services. He breaks resilience into four stages—anticipate, withstand, recover, and adapt—emphasising that cyberattacks are inevitable, but preparation and testing make the difference. From regional connectivity challenges to incident simulations like the Corporate Compromise Game, Stephen shows how planning, collaboration, and transparency strengthen response. He also highlights diversity as a superpower—with varied perspectives, cultural...
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Revolutionizing Citizen Engagement: Digital Tools and Trust in Government - Jocelyn Baker - Episode 150
Public Sector Podcast
In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we chat with Jocelyn, the Deputy Minister for Environment and Climate Change in Manitoba, about the transformative role digital tools are playing in reshaping government-citizen relationships. From co-creation of policies to fostering two-way communication, Jocelyn shares how Manitoba is using digital platforms like Engage EMB to create more inclusive, transparent, and responsive governance. We explore the shift from one-way communication to collaboration, the importance of maintaining privacy while engaging data-driven strategies, and how governments...
info_outlineIn this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we are joined by Josh Wagner, Arizona's State Chief Data and Analytics Officer, as Arizona drives forward with data modernization, AI governance and cross agency innovation. Josh will dive into the strategies shaping Arizona's data-driven future and the lessons other jurisdictions can take from their journey. This includes connecting the dots on how data is addressed, challenges in advancing Arizona's data modernization journey, the role of governance, and the acceleration of collaboration.
Josh Wagner, Arizona State Chief Data and Analytics Officer, State of Arizona
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