Tom Hawkins

What this episode covers

In this episode of the Leadership Passport, Tom Hawkins shares his extensive journey in international education, discussing his motivations for becoming a leader, pivotal moments in his career, and the importance of cultural understanding in leadership. He reflects on the challenges faced during his leadership roles, including decision-making fatigue and the value of mentorship. Tom emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to the evolving landscape of international education and the significance of self-care in effective leadership.Guest BioTom is currently the Vice President for School Start-ups, Management, and Operations for International Schools Services.  He is currently based in Minnesota, but is on the road about a week a month.Tom grew up in Minnesota and went to teach in Norway after starting his high school English/Speech teaching career in a suburban public school system outside Minneapolis/St. Paul...back in 1989!  He married Marcia Carlson in 1993, and they embarked on a nearly 30-year international school expat life taking them to Turkey, Norway (again), Beijing, Brussels, Doha, and Riga between the years of 1994 and 2022.  Three of his kids were born abroad, and all grew up and graduated from international schools, and now have completed university in the U.S.  They fall into the 50/50 TCK demographic about desire to go abroad. He finished his doctorate in International Schools Leadership from the University of Minnesota shortly before his 4th was born.  They moved back to their home on the lake in 2022 as his role with ISS is a global role which can be done remotely.  He is an avid runner, cyclist, reader, and car enthusiast. TakeawaysTom Hawkins emphasizes the importance of cultural understanding in leadership.He believes that making a bigger difference motivated his leadership journey.Tom highlights the significance of mentorship in navigating leadership challenges.He reflects on the challenges of decision-making fatigue in leadership roles.Tom stresses the need for leaders to take care of themselves to support others effectively.He shares that listening better has transformed his leadership approach.Tom discusses the complexities of international school leadership today.He believes the future of education remains bright despite challenges.Tom emphasizes the importance of being strategic in leadership decisions.He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership journey.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tom Hawkins and His Journey01:53 The Path to International School Leadership04:44 Defining Moments in Leadership07:31 Cultural Competence in Leadership09:56 Navigating Leadership Challenges12:36 Learning from Mistakes14:59 Decision Making and Leadership Fatigue17:50 The Role of Mentorship20:22 Leadership Practices That Transform22:45 The Future of International School Leadership25:24 Final Thoughts and AdviceHostKevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)Keywordsleadership, international education, cultural understanding, decision making, mentorship, school leadership, educational challenges, leadership journey, personal growth, leadership practices

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