New Lake Mac podcast helps listeners live smart

Lake Macquarie City Council is taking the Living Smart Festival to the airwaves this year with a 10-part podcast covering topics from circular economies to the radical act of caring.

---

Launching Friday 17 September, the Living Smart Podcast will go behind the scenes with Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis and other sustainability leaders, touching on practical ways to be kinder to yourself and the planet.

Georgiadis's episode sheds light on what inspired his drive to work in sustainability, and how a trip to Europe sparked his passion for gardening.

Sustainability Engagement Coordinator Chris Harle said the podcast would bring essential elements of the Living Smart Festival to the community, despite the actual event being cancelled this year due to COVID-19.

“We want to continue to inspire, empower and encourage Lake Mac to live sustainably,” Ms Harle said.

“The podcast is a great digital platform that’s accessible to everyone, even during lockdown.”

“We have included a fantastic range of topics, offering some of those important messages that reflect the purpose and values of Living Smart Festival.”

The first episode features Sustainable Neighbourhoods duo Gabrielle Clappison and Sam Doove, delving into local sustainability initiatives on offer in Lake Macquarie, and the positive benefits of volunteering.

Ms Doove said it was exciting to be part of Lake Mac’s first Living Smart Podcast.

“It’s a way to bring a dose of the positivity that usually comes from the Living Smart Festival into everyone’s lounge room,” she said.

“I hope our stories spark inspiration, and bring enjoyment and curiosity about what is possible in our community.”

Later episodes include Tim Washington, CEO of electric vehicle company Jet Charge, exploring the future of cars, and author and podcaster Brooke McAlary getting real about what caring for yourself and others should look like.

Australia’s first Circular Economy Lead Debbie O’Byrne, eco-friendly blogger Mardi Lee and songwriter Chloe Gill are among the other stars featured.

Alison Potter from SunSpot, shares the latest on how much electricity and money solar could save you, Red Cross volunteer of 25 years Sandy Collins explores the happiness of volunteering and Jamie Lepre, founder of Joyful Jams, a dance and movement program aimed at increasing self-confidence and happiness, speaks about mental health and workshops that help you find joy in the smallest moments of your day.

Each episode runs for 10-20 minutes.

Four episodes will be released on Friday 17 September, followed by three on both Saturday 18 September and Sunday 19 September.

Search 'Living Smart Lake Macquarie' wherever you get your podcasts or find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major podcasting sites.