Children’s education charity The Smith Family has launched a new podcast series, with the first three episodes out now.  

‘Conversations with The Smith Family’ explores the work being done across Australia to help young people change their future through the power of education.  

In this series, The Smith Family’s CEO Doug Taylor talks to leaders and experts from the world of education, philanthropy, not-for-profits, volunteering, government and research, as well as members of the Smith Family community, about the pressing issues impacting young people and strategies to drive positive change.  

“At a time when one in six young Australians experiences disadvantage, it’s important to hear a range of perspectives on some of the biggest challenges facing young people today and how we can all be making a positive difference in their lives,” said Taylor.  

The series kicks off with some timely conversations:  

• Episode 1: Internationally renowned education researcher Dr Kirsten Hancock, The Smith Family’s National Manager of Research and Evaluation, discusses the latest trends in school attendance, emphasising the need for supportive, non-punitive measures to boost declining attendance rates.   

• Episode 2: Professor Mark Scott AO, Vice-Chancellor and President at The University of Sydney, talks about the challenges disadvantaged students face in higher education and how universities are breaking down these barriers.  

• Episode 3: The Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities, Treasury and Employment, addresses education reform, the future of volunteering, philanthropic giving and more, in a wide-ranging conversation that explores how governments and charities can work together to support young people and strengthen our communities.  

‘Conversations with The Smith Family’ is out now on major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, with new episodes released fortnightly. 

The Smith Family CEO, Doug Taylor is a judge for Third sector Awards 2024! For more information on the largest and most prestigious Awards ceremony recognising excellence within the Not-for-Profit sector, click here.