In this episode of the Flourish Movement podcast, we’re diving into a conversation that’s deeply important and at times, uncomfortable - the presence of misogynistic behaviours in schools and the crucial role leaders play in addressing them. Adam and Bob are joined by Denise Lofts, an experienced and passionate school leader who shares her journey through education and leadership. Together, they unpack blind spots, gender bias, and the responsibility leaders have in creating inclusive environments. Denise talks openly about how women often face higher scrutiny, greater pressure, and more barriers in leadership and how this must change. The episode covers: How small comments and actions shape school culture Why leaders must model respect and psychological safety The power of calling people in, not out What men and women can do to support female leadership How to create structural support like mentoring and safe conversations This is an honest, thoughtful conversation that encourages us all to reflect, listen, and lead with greater awareness. A big thank you to the NSWPPA, our learning partner in this podcast.
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Belonging that goes Beyond the School’s Gates
Every great school leader we’ve spoken to has one thing in common - they make people feel like they belong. Some do it with energy and fun, others with quiet kindness, but the impact is the same. Stronger schools and happier people. In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Allen. Mark shows us how opening up the school to the community, being present each day, and making time for joy and connection can transform the way people feel about their local school. Whether it’s a morning smile, a conversation at the gate, or working alongside parents and leveraging P&C meetings, Mark shares how schools can become places where everyone feels welcome and where the whole community has a role to play. A big thank you to the NSWPPA, our learning partner in this podcast.
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A New Approach to Emotional Regulation with Wendy Fox
In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Fox, a teacher, school leader and guidance officer who has turned neuroscience into storytelling magic. Wendy shares how a simple story about an owl, a guard dog, and an elephant is helping students, teachers and even parents understand the brain and regulate emotions. From the rise in dysregulation and schools’ refusal post-COVID, to teaching young children to recognise and respond to their emotional states, this episode is packed with insights on how to support wellbeing, improve behaviour, and lastly create better conditions for learning. Be ready to walk away with a new, practical, and fun framework. A big thank you to the NSWPPA, our learning partner in this podcast.
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Looking Back: Evolved Leaders for Evolving Challenges
As we close yet another Podcast season, as well as another year, we reflect on the evolving landscape of education and, in particular, school leadership. We explore how the key challenges they face have shifted in recent years. From addressing mental health, to staff shortages, we discuss the current realities of leadership in schools.
We also look back at all the incredible guests who’ve been on the Podcast and discuss what we believe are the common characteristics they share, which allowed them to achieve such amazing things both in their schools and their personal lives.
Join us for an insightful discussion filled with lessons, inspiration, and practical takeaways for anyone in education.
We kindly ask all of our listeners to subscribe to the Podcast and leave us a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. This will allow us to continue to bring you all these great stories and guests.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the NSWPPA, our learning partner in this Podcast.
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Timetable for the Perfect Day with Greg Weeks
In this episode, we sit down with Principal Greg Weeks, who designed the “timetable for the perfect day” for himself, staff and students. Faced with the constant demands of his role, as well as curriculum demands, and staff wellbeing, he reimagined the daily timetable to create an environment that supports academic focus, job effectiveness, and collaboration.
Join us as we explore the process he went through to achieve this. We'll discuss the implementation strategies and practical takeaways on how to rethink the structure of the school day for a healthier, more productive learning and work environment for staff and students alike.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the NSWPPA, our learning partner in this Podcast.
Now, more than ever, it is critical that we look after the wellbeing and mental health of our school leaders. The Flourish Movement provides a space where they can take off their professional armour, sit with their colleagues, be supported and have real conversations to share their experiences and learn from each other.
Dr Adam Fraser is a peak performance researcher with a PhD in Biomedical Science. Along with Principal Bob Willetts, he will be introducing you to some of the amazing school principals that are teaching our kids and leading our schools all over Australia.
Australia