#52: Matt Pitman, the connection conundrum in schools

Matt Pitman is an educator, author, and advocate for rethinking how we build connection in schools. His latest book, The Connection Conundrum, explores why connection is so often overlooked in education and what it takes to make it central to student engagement, wellbeing, and learning. Drawing on years of leadership experience, Matt brings both practical strategies and a deeply human perspective to the challenges school communities face today. In this episode, Matt and Megan dive into the transformative power of connection and how it can reshape whole-school culture. They talk about what happens when behaviour management is treated not as punishment but as an opportunity for relationship, and why vulnerability and authenticity in leadership matter so much. Matt shares insights on how to create norms instead of rules, how to listen with empathy and curiosity, and how connection can ripple across students, staff, and parents to transform the whole community. This is a conversation for educators, leaders, and anyone invested in the future of schools. Matt reminds us that connection is not a soft skill or an add-on, but the foundation of belonging, engagement, and growth. His work offers a roadmap for creating environments where every part of the school community — young people, teachers, and families — can thrive together. You can find out more about Matt's work and his books here. Host: Megan Corcoran, ⁠Wagtail Institute⁠ Wagtail Institute empowers schools and complex settings to become trauma-informed wellbeing communities of practice where everyone can thrive. We work alongside leaders, educators, and practitioners to respond to wellbeing challenges, enhance trauma-informed practice, and navigate pathways to healing. If you would like to work with Megan, head to our website or send an email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ ⁠Wagtail Institute on instagram⁠ Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠