21CLHK 2026 Keynote: Fit to Lead: How Physical and Mental Health Shape Authentic Leadership

In this 21CLHK Education Vanguard podcast takeover keynote episode, Howard Stribbell shares a deeply personal and honest reflection on leadership, achievement, burnout, vulnerability, and the importance of authenticity in education. Drawing from over 30 years in international education, Howard explores how masks, ego, stress, and the pursuit of success can create blind spots in leadership and strain our mental health, physical well-being, and relationships. Through stories of success, failure, resilience, and personal transformation, he challenges educators and school leaders to rethink what it truly means to lead well.This keynote highlights the importance of emotional awareness, authentic leadership, psychological safety, and becoming the healthiest version of ourselves, not just for our schools and communities but for ourselves as well.A must-listen for school leaders, educators, and anyone navigating the pressures of leadership in today’s fast-changing world.