Knowing when to slow the pace as a leader with Alex Hems, Head, The Aldenham Foundation (Ep. 183)

In this episode of The Independent School Podcast Juliet Corbett is joined by Alex Hems, Executive Head of The Aldenham Foundation since 2022.In this thoughtful and honest conversation, they reflect on what it takes to lead well when the pace is intense and the stakes are high, and why creating space to think - both individually and collectively - can be one of a leader’s most powerful tools.Together they explore:What ‘slow down to speed up’ really means in senior leadershipHow leaders make good decisions when there’s no clear right answerThe role of intuition, judgement and self-awareness under pressureWhy slowing the pace can strengthen teams and improve buy-inHow leaders balance urgency with long-term stewardshipThis episode is for you if you’re a senior leader navigating complexity, feeling the pressure to move fast, and wondering how to create better decisions, stronger teams, and clearer direction without burning yourself out or rushing to the wrong answer.Episode Links'Slow Productivity' by Cal NewportThank you so much for listening to The Independent School Podcast. I would be grateful if you could spare a couple of minutes to send me some feedback here. This helps me make the podcast as helpful as possible to listeners. Thank you!