This episode walks through the nuanced responses of countries in the Pacific region and Timor-Leste, exploring the perspectives of key figures who wielded substantial influence in government and healthcare during the COVID-19 era. This narrative unfolds by examining the dynamics that shaped each nation's approach to the Pandemic, such as the subtle pressures and preparations that influenced their responses.  How did these factors play a role in determining the strategies adopted by different nations, and what lessons can we draw from their experiences? We discuss the importance of working together and having pre-existing relationships in determining the efficacy of these responses. This episode features: - Gordon Peake - Host - Jack Niedenthal - Former Secretary of Health for Marshall Islands - Josh Francis - Principal Research Fellow and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist at Menzies School of Health Research - Fidelis Magalhaes - Former Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers of East Timor - Stephanie Williams - Australia’s Former Ambassador for Regional Health Security at Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.