How do you turn risk into opportunity in politics? Evan Mulholland’s journey shows how. From quitting his job to campaign full-time with a young family, to representing Victoria’s Northern Metropolitan Region in the State Parliament, Evan shares how resilience, risk-taking, and authenticity shape effective leadership.

In this episode, Evan reflects on his path from student politics and community theatre to becoming Deputy Leader in the Upper House. He discusses the challenges of balancing family with public life, the importance of connecting with multicultural communities, and why politicians must speak plainly so everyday families feel seen. For aspiring leaders, his story is a reminder that courage and community go hand in hand.

How do you break into politics—even if you didn’t plan a political career—and lead with your lived experience? In this episode, Senator Jana Stewart (First Nations, Victoria) explains the practical pathway from community work and family therapy to federal parliament. She unpacks what Senate Estimates actually does (accountability and spending scrutiny), how Senate committees improve laws through public submissions (including the current Freedom of Information bill inquiry), and why representation from regional Australia matters. Stewart shares how campaigning in Kooyong taught her to love the “in-the-trenches” work with voters, and how becoming a senator while pregnant turned visibility into permission for others to step forward.

You’ll also hear clear, human advice: leadership starts where you are; back yourself; and “find your people” who keep you grounded and accountable. Stewart is candid about privilege, networks, and the real logistics that shape political access—from unpaid time to family supports—plus how community ties and a strong values base keep her focused on outcomes for kids, families, and country.

Bridged By Words is the podcast where aspiring leaders connect with experienced politicians, gaining the lessons and inspiration they need for their own path. Watch full interviews on YouTube or listen on Spotify.

In this episode of Bridged By Words, I sit down with Trung Luu, Liberal Member for the Victorian State Upper House representing Western Metropolitan, and Shadow Assistant Minister for Police, Corrections, and Crime Prevention. We explore his journey from escaping post-war Vietnam as a refugee child, to serving 28 years as a police officer, and now representing one of Victoria’s most diverse communities in Parliament. Trung reflects on the importance of education, why he founded the Inspirational Awards for students, and the role encouragement plays in shaping young lives. He shares insights on multicultural engagement, representation for the Vietnamese-Australian community, and the lessons learned from decades in policing, the army reserve, and public service. We also discuss the challenges of internal party politics, balancing time with community demands, and why persistence, integrity, and never giving up have guided his path into leadership. Tune in for a candid, thoughtful conversation about leadership, lived experience, and the responsibility of using political power to represent and uplift communities.

How can you build a leadership journey rooted in persistence, community, and service? In this episode of Bridged By Words, Nationals MP Gaelle Broad shares her long road to the Victorian Parliament and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From multiple preselection attempts to finally being elected in 2022, her story is one of resilience and commitment to regional voices.

Gaelle takes us behind the scenes of parliamentary committees, showing how everyday citizens can shape inquiries and influence legislation. She also opens up about balancing the demanding lifestyle of politics with family and community life, and why regional representation matters for Victoria’s future. Her advice is practical, grounded, and inspiring for anyone considering public service.

Bridged By Words is the podcast where aspiring leaders connect with experienced politicians, gaining the lessons and inspiration they need for their own path. Watch full interviews on YouTube or listen on Spotify.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why persistence and resilience are essential in politics and leadership

• How parliamentary committees work and how the public can have their say

• The importance of community connection and volunteering in leadership

• Why politics is a lifestyle, not a job, and how to manage the workload effectively

How can a business and tech background prepare someone for a career in federal politics? In this episode, Aaron Violi, Federal MP for Casey and Chief Opposition Whip, shares his journey from small business and startups to the national stage. He explains how surviving Black Saturday reshaped his perspective on life and leadership, why community has always been central to his mission, and what it really takes to thrive in politics while staying grounded.

We discuss the realities of life as an MP—time away from family, representing a diverse electorate, and dealing with public criticism. Aaron also unpacks his views on youth education, trade pathways, local disaster resilience, and why politics should always be grounded in purpose, not ego.

Tune in for a candid, down-to-earth conversation about leadership, public service, and staying connected to the people and places that matter most.

How does real-world experience—from housing commission to post-war Iraq—influence a leader’s approach to politics? In this powerful episode of Bridged By Words, federal MP and Assistant Minister for Defence Peter Khalil shares his journey from the outer suburbs of Melbourne to Parliament House, shaped by public housing, education, and a global outlook forged in conflict zones.