SCU Buzz | The Southern Cross University podcast

Essential Stories: Creativity, Community, and Collective Identity

Essential Stories: Creativity, Community, and Collective Identity was presented by Southern Cross University and NORPA. A sold-out discussion moderated by Professor David Heilpern that brought together national and local voices to explore how community storytelling and place-based cultural practices can support recovery, resilience and a renewed sense of collective identity. This discussion formed part of NORPA’s wider creative development project 'Dinner Party at the End of the World', a bold multi-artform response to the 2022 floods that supports regional recovery through local stories, connection and reflection. SCU academic Jeanti St Clair contributed key research and community insights, reinforcing the University’s commitment to regionally relevant research and meaningful community partnerships. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Rewilding the Stage: Agency and Responsibility in Feminine Creativity

Rewilding the Stage: Agency and Responsibility in Feminine Creativity was presented by Southern Cross University and NORPA. This panel discussion explores female creativity in the production of NORPA’s performance, WILDSKIN. The panel analyses how themes of ‘rewilding’ were woven into the production, from choreography to set and costume design. The discussion is chaired by Southern Cross University Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and feminist historian, Professor Mary Spongberg. Panellists include: Charlotte Haywood; Set and Costume Designer, NORPA Jade Dewi Tyas Tunggal; Movement Director and Performer, NORPA Heather Fairbairn; Associate Director, NORPA. This panel session was recorded live at NORPA. The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Lessons in leadership: Executives share their path to success

In this powerful panel discussion, four distinguished alumni — Greg Young (CEO, Coast Entertainment Holdings), Marion Charlton (COO, Queensland Airports), Will Brook (CEO, Brookfarm), and moderator Georgina Holt (Director, Co-Creative Studios) — share candid insights into what it truly means to lead in 2025. From navigating crises like COVID and industry tragedies, to building resilient teams and staying true to values under pressure, this episode explores: - Whether leadership is innate or developed - The role of authenticity, trust, and culture in effective leadership - How values are tested in real-world decision-making - Practical tips for emerging leaders, including networking, self-care, and getting things done Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or seasoned executive, this episode offers rich, relatable stories and actionable advice to help you grow as a leader in any field. This audio was recorded at our Lessons in Leadership: Alumni Lunch Series. Study business: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/business/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.

Transformation of a University - from curriculum to COVID

A special edition buzz from a BusinessNSW summit at Southern Cross University. Sophie Cruikshank, head of sustainability at Essential Energy, chats to Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Education Impact) Ben Roche about how to deal with change, from fundamental internal transformation to external pressures like COVID and the floods.

Launching a business as a health graduate

In this episode of SCU Buzz, Dr Owen Hogan chats with Lara Goode, SCU alumna and founder of Coastal Therapies, about her journey from new osteopath to thriving clinic owner. Lara shares the highs and lows of starting a business, including rebuilding after a flood, managing staff, and balancing work with motherhood. They also discuss the upcoming Graduate Certificate in Small Business Management, designed to help professionals - especially in allied health - gain the business skills needed to launch and grow their own ventures. Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Small Business Management: https://www.scu.edu.au/study/courses/graduate-certificate-in-small-business-management-1008130/ The musical introduction to this podcast was written and performed by Alako Myles.