First Nations Leadership: Co-Design and Respectful Negotiation with MTL Consulting Founder Marius Little

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🥋 What does real co-design look like and how do we shift from consultation to genuine collaboration?

This week is NAIDOC Week, a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It’s also a time to listen. 

In this episode, we sit down with Marius Little, a proud Arrernte man and engagement specialist who has spent years navigating the spaces between government, business, and community. From his early days in the South Australian public sector to founding his own consultancy, Marius brings grounded wisdom and hard-earned insight to the table.

We unpack:

• What co-design really means, walking together on equal footing, not ticking boxes
•  The true role of a facilitator, how those who listen rather than dominate can channel solutions instead of pushing top-down fixes
•  How to price and value Aboriginal business recognising the worth not just in services, but in cultural insight and leadership
•  Why self-determination is the thread that ties it all together: whether it’s co-design, facilitation, negotiation, or pricing, this conversation comes back to one core message: standing strong, being heard, and creating change on your own terms

Whether you're in policy, community, procurement, or just curious about doing things better this yarn is packed with strategies and tools to help you negotiate with respect and purpose.

Learn more about Marius Little and his consultancy services at https://mtlconsulting.com.au/ or or follow Marius on LinkedIn.

🎧 New episodes of Rolling Through Negotiations drop every Thursday.
 Thanks for listening, peace and love to you, and until the next one, take care.
 OSS!

Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal views and lived experiences only, it’s not legal, financial, or medical advice.

If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76

We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.