John Lister MP Interview | Political Leadership & Public Service
How does a local teacher go from standing in front of a classroom to standing in Parliament representing the community he grew up in? In this episode of Bridged By Words, Ethan Urch sits down with John Lister MP, Member of the Victorian Parliament for Werribee, to explore his journey into politics, public service and community leadership.
John’s connection to Melbourne’s west runs deep. Growing up in Werribee, he experienced firsthand the schools, communities and opportunities that shaped the person he would become. His career would eventually take him into government as an adviser before he completed his teaching degree and entered the classroom — experiences that gave him a close-up understanding of how government decisions affect communities and young people.
After teaching in regional Victoria and later back in Melbourne’s west, John made the transition from education into elected office, winning the Werribee by-election in February 2025. His story offers an insight into what happens when professional experience, community connection and a desire to serve come together.
Together, they explore what teaching can teach you about leadership, why understanding your local community matters, the transition from an everyday profession into political life, and what it actually feels like to become a first-time Member of Parliament.
This is a conversation about community, education, representation, opportunity and the different paths people can take into public leadership.
Bridged By Words is the podcast where aspiring leaders connect with experienced politicians, gaining the lessons and inspiration they need for their own political journeys. Watch full interviews on YouTube or listen on Spotify.
What You’ll Learn:
• Why you don’t need to follow a traditional political career path to enter public life
• How working as a teacher can shape your approach to leadership and communication
• Why understanding the community you want to represent matters
• How professional and life experience can prepare you for political leadership
• What the transition from the classroom to Parliament actually involves
• Why strong communities and local relationships matter in public service
• How John’s upbringing in Werribee shaped his approach to representation
• What aspiring leaders can learn from taking opportunities when they arise
