Laura Kane's guide to navigating scrutiny

Laura Kane's guide to navigating scrutiny

From Future Women Leadership Series by FW

April 1, 2026 · 36 min · Season 6 · Episode 5

About this episode

Laura Kane discusses how to navigate public scrutiny as a leader in the sports industry.

How would intense public scrutiny impact your leadership style?  Laura Kane is one of the most closely watched leaders in the nation. At just 33, she became the first woman to serve as the AFL's top football official. Today she continues to hold one of the most prestigious football operating roles, and will lead the AFLW competition into the 2026 season. In this episode, she speaks with FW Founder Helen McCabe about how she learned to navigate scrutiny as a leader.  Please note: This episode was recorded the week before Laura Kane's new role at the AFLW was announced.  Plus, this season Helen McCabe is answering YOUR leadership questions. Wait to the end of the episode to hear her take on burnout and Gen Z employees. If you have any leadership dilemmas, send them her way by emailing hello@futurewomen.com .  Join the movement to fast-track your professional development.  Become an FW member today . Keep up with @futurewomen on Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn and Threads See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Helen McCabe

Guest: Laura Kane

Topics covered

  • leadership
  • public scrutiny
  • women in sports
  • professional development
  • burnout
  • Gen Z

Keywords

  • leadership style
  • public scrutiny
  • AFL
  • AFLW
  • women leaders
  • burnout
  • Gen Z employees

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AFL, AFLW, FW, futurewomen.com

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