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PODCAST · society

People of VU

by Victoria University

Get to know the change-makers, leaders and storytellers of Victoria University. Hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker, we explore everything from leadership and career changes to passion projects and childhood memories.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Sep 16, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Maribyrnong Mayor Cr Mohamed Semra

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Topic A Topic B Topic C Links mentioned in this episode: http://example.com http://second-example.com

  2. Episode 57: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Will Edgoose

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Topic A Topic B Topic C Links mentioned in this episode: http://example.com http://second-example.com

  3. Episode 56: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Kim Cornish AM PhD FASSA

    This week, Adam chats with Professor Kim Cornish AM PhD FASSA, Vice-Chancellors Distinguished Professorial Research Fellow; Global leader in developmental cognitive neuroscience, with pioneering work in early childhood development, learning and mental health.

  4. Episode 55: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with John McCall MacBain

    This week, Adam chats with . Philanthropy has the power to genuinely change lives: opening up the doors to opportunity that may otherwise remain closed. Few embody this principle more clearly than John and Marcy McCall MacBain, both of whom have traversed the worlds of commerce; innovation;...

  5. Episode 54: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Amin Saikal AM, FASSA

    This week, Adam chats with . Professor Amin Saikal AM, FASSA is one of Australia’s most respected voices in global affairs, and he generously shared his incredible story with us on the latest episode of the People of VU podcast.

  6. Episode 53: Professor Adam Shoemaker with Ashwin Damera

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Ashwin's education journey from early years at Krishnamurti Foundation to Harvard University Equity in education and healthcare VU Delhi NCR Campus and the possibilities of the partnership together

  7. Episode 51: Professor Adam Shoemaker with Peter Laver AM FTSE

    This week, Adam chats with Peter Laver AM FTSE. Topics discussed: A 40-year career at BHP Shaping policy and industry Time as a Chancellor of VU

  8. Episode 50: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Jono Sinatra

    This week, Adam chats with Jonathan Sinatra. Topics discussed: Connection to VU and establishing a performing arts career Contemporary dance in various forms and what learnings Jono has garnered Belonging and community

  9. Episode 49: Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Ruwangi Fernando

    This week, Adam chats with Dr Ruwangi Fernando Topics discussed: Championing intersectional equity in STEM Responsible AI Diversity for innovation

  10. People of VU International Women's Day Podcast with Anousha Narain

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Sea changes and career changes from Mauritius to Melbourne Anousha's commitment to advocacy for diversity in IT as a member of the Victorian Directors of IT and Women in IT Community of Practice. Empowerment and growth across two degrees and VU's...

  11. People of VU International Women's Day Podcast with Vanessa Barnes

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Career changing into the digital learning space at VU. What it feels like to be the new drummer in feminist punk Band Cat Crawl The grit, determination and training it took to step into the ring to compete in an MMA cage fight. Links mentioned in…

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  12. People of VU International Women's Day Podcast with Komal Rana

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Komal introduces the fundamentals of her fascinating thesis on decolonising education. From Delhi to Melbourne, walk in the shoes of an international student. See the synergy in literature, dance and education as Komal shares her passions Links...

  13. People of VU International Women's Day Podcast with Adsheaya Vasakan

    This week, Adam chats with . How studying a Masters of Engineering resulted in a career in the field Working as a student mentor at VU Receiving two leadership awards and membership of the STEM Sisters program

  14. People of International Women's Day VU Podcast with Professor Emma Rybalka

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: Emma's recent appointment to the Professoriate from humble beginnings as a student A successful NHMRC Grant application for work in Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy Juggling a career with motherhood

  15. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Melanie Inturrisi

    This week, Adam chats with . Topics discussed: The wealth of career development opportunities available for VU students to progress from student to staff member. The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood teaching which featured in Melanie's Education Studies at VU. Live your Lemon - a…

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  16. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr. José Ramos-Horta - Part 3

    In the final part of this special live episode, Dr. José Ramos-Horta discusses the profound relationship between Timor-Leste and its international supporters, and the future of education for young Timorese. On behalf of Victoria University and all our listeners, I extend our heartfelt thanks to…

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  17. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr. José Ramos-Horta - Part 2

    In this special live episode, Dr. José Ramos-Horta continues sharing his experiences growing up in remote Timorese villages, his relentless pursuit of Timorese independence, and his reflections on global peace and the role of the United Nations. He also discusses the profound relationship between...

  18. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr. José Ramos-Horta - Part 1

    Dr. José Ramos-Horta embodies the essence of hope—hope that is deeply rooted in belief, purpose, and inspiration. As the President of Timor-Leste, his journey is a testament to resilience and leadership. On 11 October, 70 guests had the incredible privilege of sharing in the hopeful journey of…

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  19. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Thunu Rathnayaka

    The world needs more of so many things right now. Thunu Rathnayaka exemplifies why you can never contribute too much to these issues. She is a VU Law student, VU Student Ambassador, VU Law Society President, VU Student Union Board Member, VU Volunteer, and VU Community Leader. Amazing. In this...

  20. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Mevan Fernando

    Mevan Fernando is proof that exploring your interests and passions can make for a fulfilling career and life. As the Digital Experience Officer at the Wyndham Tech School, Mevan encourages curiosity, exploration and collaboration. In this episode, Mevan speaks to embracing his Sri Lankan heritage...

  21. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Vince Lebon

    Vince Lebon sees peoples' feet first and then their face. This is to be expected as the Founder, CEO and Designer of Rollie Nation—one of the world’s most interesting and successful shoe design enterprises. Today, Vince speaks to studying multimedia design at VU, his “cool-comfort” approach to...

  22. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Karlee McCulloch.

    Karlee McCulloch is a natural leader who isn’t afraid to try something outside her comfort zone. Her inner motivation, determination, and desire to support others has enabled her to change the course of her life – and now do the same for others. Today, Karlee speaks to the people, roles, and...

  23. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Katrina Gubbins

    In the latest People of VU episode, I am delighted to feature Katrina Gubbins – the originator of this podcast. Katrina has been an invaluable member of our VU community for over eight years. During this time, she brought her expertise in communications to various roles – from her beginnings in…

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  24. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Lizzie Georgostathis

    Whether on the field as a Western Bulldogs AFLW player or in the classroom, Lizzie is someone who motivates everyone she meets. I had a wonderful chat with Lizzie on the eve of her graduation – she is the first in her family to graduate from university. Today, Lizzie received her Bachelor of...

  25. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Anesu Ashley Masocha

    Despite this immense challenge, and with the (frankly, heartening) support of his family and VU’s Clinical Exercise Rehabilitation clinic, Anesu overcame his health setback and has truly excelled in life. Anesu's vibrant personality radiates positivity every time we meet. It was such a delight to...

  26. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Devanschu Arora and Chandra Altoff

    From Dev's high school council presidency in Punjab and long-standing support for international students to Chandra's impactful work at VU through the food pantry (providing essentials to around 70 people per week) and hidden disability advocacy, their leadership journeys are uniquely VU. In the...

  27. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Hing-Wah Chau

    Hailing from Hong Kong, Dr. Chau's architectural journey began with a gift from his grandfather—a book that sparked his passion for shaping how and what we build and construct. Today, he shares this passion with VU students through immersive, hands-on classes that delve into the future of our...

  28. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Gary Foley – Part 2

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that the following program contains the names of people who have passed away. In this episode, after learning about Gary's early political activity in part one, we shift our focus to his influence on the arts scene and his realisation of...

  29. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Gary Foley - Part 1

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that the following program contains the names of people who have passed away. Originally, we set out to record 30 minutes as we have typically done in this podcast series. The result? A two-part, hour-long and very rich discussion of...

  30. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Patty Kinnersly

    Adam chats with Patty Kinnersly, the CEO of Our Watch – Australia's a national leader in the primary prevention of violence against women and their children in Australia. This episode was recorded with a live audience at Victoria University's Footscray Park Campus. Topics discussed: Our Watch and...

  31. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Christina D'Souza and Rebecca Reid

    Christine, a PhD candidate, delves into the complexities of intimate partner violence within Christian marriages. Rebecca, who recently had her doctoral candidature confirmed, explores health inequalities in urban environments. Notably, both Christine and Rebecca represented Victoria University…

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  32. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Manar Mahfouz

    Manar recently completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science at Victoria University and is not stopping there. She is now aiming to become an Osteopath, driven by a personal experience that deeply affected her life and pushed her toward a career in healthcare and rehabilitation. Along her journey,...

  33. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Indu Koul

    From Kashmir to Australia, Indu Koul has challenged conventions. She pioneered a girls' cricket team in her hometown and, for her daughter, established the first female team in her local club's 50-year history. Now, she's preparing for the Cricket Veteran National Championship. At work as a...

  34. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Colin Seery

    As the CEO of Lifeline Australia, he has witnessed a staggering 50% increase in calls for help, underscoring the critical role that the Lifeline Crisis Call Centre plays in supporting individuals in need. Lifeline's relentless efforts to combat the stigma around seeking help have resulted in more...

  35. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Clare Hanlon

    Fast-forward to today, and Clare is spearheading change for women in sport. Clare’s research has prompted major sporting codes and peak bodies to rethink their uniform policies, helping women and girls optimise their levels of performance and comfort on the field. Her research has gone global in...

  36. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Tuesday Atzinger

    From working on an LGBTQIA+ student learning module to advocating for the Hidden Disability Sunflower – we are one of the first universities to sign up as supporters – Tuesday has never been afraid to embrace the different and diverse. Beyond this, Tuesday has travelled the world, was a teen…

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  37. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Assoc. Prof. Peter Hurley

    Days like today (11 April 2023) - when nationwide responses to the Universities Accord Discussion Paper are being submitted - are what make people like Associate Professor Peter Hurley tick. As the Director of the Mitchell Institute, Victoria University’s educational policy think tank, Peter’s…

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  38. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Mary-Rose McLaren

    Writing a poem a day and acting by night, Professor Mary-Rose McLaren is a creative talent with so much more than teaching behind her name. Mary-Rose weaves drama through all she does, including her classes. Drama games are central to shaking up her student’s learning experiences, and while they...

  39. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Helen Hill

    In 1973, the Department of Foreign Affairs sent a cable to the ‘Australian mission to U.N. New York’ about Dr Helen Hill, noting that she “appears to hold strong opinions”. To this day, Helen's "strong opinions" has led to significant social and political change. She has continuously advocated…

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  40. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Tahnee Towers

    After meeting at the tree-planting day a few months ago in Werribee, I knew I had to find out more about Tahnee Towers. Tahnee is the first VU student to be interviewed on People of VU. I discovered more about her experiences as a biomedical science student, growing up off-grid on Bundjalung...

  41. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Stuart Clegg

    This year’s final episode of the People of VU podcast is a special one. My guest is the magic behind the podcast and someone who has sat by me recording this show for a year. He is also the joint winner of the One VU Award and People’s Choice winner in the 2022 VU Staff Awards. I am delighted to...

  42. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Vasileios Stavropoulos

    VU Real-World Researchers are the driving force behind the University’s research and our new Research and Impact Plan. Dr Vasileios Stavropoulos is one of them. In the latest episode of the People of VU podcast, Vasileios gives a perfect example of how his research has a profound impact on the...

  43. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Paola Balla

    Artist, mentor, teacher, researcher, curator — Dr Paola Balla is all of this and more. I had a fantastic conversation with Paola for the People of VU podcast. We unpacked the occupation she would list on a visa application; how it felt striding across the graduation stage to receive her PhD; and...

  44. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Anne Howard

    This episode of the People of VU Podcast comes at a critical time for the tertiary sector. Just a week ago the federal government was deep in discussion at the Jobs and Skills Summit. You will hear me speak with Anne Howard about the potential outcomes for Vocational Education and her views on…

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  45. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Dr Mary Woessner

    After a mid-year hiatus, it has been fantastic to get back in the recording studio for the People of VU podcast. And our first episode back is an absolute cracker. I was joined by Dr Mary Woessner (PhD), one of our star researchers and lecturers in Clinical Exercise Science. Throughout our...

  46. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Franziska Locher & Kirsten Jeffery

    On the eve of the formal VU City Tower launch (31 May 2022), I had a fantastic talk with Kirsten Jeffery, Project Director, and Franziska Locher, Program Manager, for the tenth episode of the People of VU podcast. As a former accountant and architect respectively, Kirsten and Franziska are...

  47. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Peter Radoll

    At Victoria University, we have spent these past few weeks reconnecting with familiar and new faces through a series of on-campus events. What better time than this to release a podcast with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor People & Organisation, Peter Radoll, who fondly describes his people-centred…

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  48. Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Lucy Franzmann

    It’s rare to find someone who loves numbers as much as a Chief Financial Officer, and Victoria University’s CFO Lucy Franzmann takes it to the next level. Lucy has developed a unique perspective from her regional upbringing and experience in the arts and health sectors. From the Women's Circus to...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Get to know the change-makers, leaders and storytellers of Victoria University. Hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker, we explore everything from leadership and career changes to passion projects and childhood memories.

HOSTED BY

Victoria University

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does People of VU have?

People of VU currently has 58 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is People of VU about?

Get to know the change-makers, leaders and storytellers of Victoria University. Hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker, we explore everything from leadership and career changes to passion projects and childhood memories.

How often does People of VU release new episodes?

People of VU has 58 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to People of VU?

You can listen to People of VU on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts People of VU?

People of VU is created and hosted by Victoria University.
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