Back in Cheeky Half 17, Paul & KG considered the Social Cohesion Report, researched and published by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute. It is a veritable goldmine of insight and possibility, pointing out the many ways our society connects, grows and flourishes - and the potential risks we should all guard against in order to protect societal cohesion. They also wound up their conversation wondering if there would be an opportunity to talk to someone at the institute so they could explain the purpose and impact of such compelling work.

Fast-forward (well, not too fast...) almost an entire season later and Paul & KG had the absolute pleasure of sitting with Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Research Institute, to discuss all things cohesion, and especially the stories that hold us together.

This is a deeply engaging conversation, covering the origins of the research, it's purpose, it's use across a number of domains (social policy, community engagement, to name just two) and the way stories around our local communities help to create and sustain a sense of belonging and connection.

And of course, we are kept company by an unbelievably, top-notch, non-alcoholic Riesling (yes, you read that correctly!). Our friends at Annandale Cellars knocked it out of the park with the stunning Dr Loosen Dr Lo Riesling. It is a non-vintage, non-alcoholic drop that will blow you away. You just have to try some!

Sláinte friends!

Some useful resources from this episode:

1. An executive summary of the Mapping Social Cohesion Report 2023, beautifully visualised.
2. Scanlon Foundation
3. Scanlon Foundation Research Institute
4. Mapping Social Cohesion Report 2023 - Full (Download)
5. Social Cohesion Compass
6. Strong Communities Narratives
7. Welcoming Cities
8. Voices of Australia Podcast

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Please reach out on askus@leadershipdecanted.com or visit us at www.leadershipdecanted.com

Disagree or agree with anything we've said? How wrong are we?!? Are there any leadership topics you'd like us to discuss (or perhaps other books or podcasts that might set us straight!)? Maybe you'd like to recommend a favourite wine!

Whatever tickles your fancy, we'd love to hear from you!!