2 Cool 4 School Podcast

What happens after a permanent school exclusion? In this episode, I sat down with Meka to hear a first hand account of being permanently excluded, the impact it had on family life, the appeals process, transitioning to a PRU, and how one decision shaped the years that followed.

In this upcoming episode Azryah Harvey, a SENDCO and EDI Lead, shares what it's really like working on the frontline of education while living with ADHD herself.We explore the realities of leading SEND provision, championing inclusion, balancing the demands of school leadership, and how receiving her own ADHD diagnosis changed the way she understood both herself and the children she supports.If you've ever wondered what SEND looks like from both sides of the table, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

I sat down with former student turned professional boxer TINO BELLOTT. This isn’t just a conversation about boxing. It’s about discipline when nobody’s watching. Believing in yourself when nobody’s clapping. Taking losses without letting them define you and having family, friends and community in your corner when the lights go off. We spoke about the sacrifices, the setbacks, the mindset and the reality behind chasing a dream most people quit on.

What does it mean to be a positive role model in a young person's life? In this episode we're joined by the team from Black Men Teach for a powerful conversation about the impact of Black male educators, father figures, and mentors in shaping the next generation. We explore the challenges and rewards of teaching, what it means to champion students when they're struggling, the importance of representation in education, and how schools can create environments where every child feels seen, valued, and supported. This episode goes beyond education and dives into leadership, identity, community, and the lasting influence adults can have on young people.

From academy dreams to finding purpose beyond the pitch. This episode is deeper than football.I sat down with Jevonté Small to talk pressure, setbacks, identity, and the silent battles a lot of young boys face growing up chasing a dream that sometimes doesn’t love you back.Through faith he found direction beyond the game. Now he’s pouring everything he’s learnt into the next generation, coaching young people on and off the field, teaching them discipline, self-worth and belief when life tries to tell them otherwise.Sometimes the biggest win ain’t making it pro…it’s making it through!

In this special episode, I sit down with Revive Congo to dive into their inspiring journey of giving back to the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. From education and IT initiatives that empower young minds to community programs. We explore what led the founders to dedicate their lives to service, the power of the Congolese diaspora, and how community coming together fuels lasting change. Join us as we raise awareness, celebrate resilience, and spotlight the importance of unity in building a brighter future. Learn more: https://revivecongo.org/

In this episode, we sit down with a social worker to unpack the reality behind one of the most misunderstood professions. We explore what social work really looks like in practice, the key legislations that shape decisions, and the complex cases that rarely make headlines. It’s a raw and eye-opening conversation that challenges assumptions and reveals the human side of the system. If you’ve ever wondered how these life-changing decisions are made, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Nana (social worker) to unpack the reality behind one of the most misunderstood professions. We explore what social work really looks like in practice, the key legislations that shape decisions, and the complex cases that rarely make headlines. It’s a raw and eye-opening conversation that challenges assumptions and reveals the human side of the system.If you’ve ever wondered how these life-changing decisions are made, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we explore the changing landscape of education with a special guest, diving into the biggest issues facing schools today. From student attendance and the rise of AI in the classroom to the growing teacher retention crisis and the debate around phone bans, we unpack what’s really going on behind the headlines. It’s an honest, thought-provoking conversation about where education is heading and what it means for teachers, students, and parents alike.Tune in and share your thoughts in the comments.

What does faith in schools actually look like in today’s society?In a world that’s constantly changing, where values are shifting and young people are facing more pressure than ever, the role of faith in education has never been more important or more questioned.This episode dives into the reality of faith in schools today. Is it still relevant? Is it being lost? Or is it more needed now than ever before?We explore how faith can shape identity, guide decision-making, and provide a sense of purpose for young people navigating school life. From real conversations to honest perspectives, this is an episode that challenges thinking and opens up an important discussion

In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to support a child in a football academy beyond the training sessions and match days. From managing expectations and handling pressure, to understanding the academy environment and your role as a parent, this conversation is all about giving families the tools to better support young players on their journey. We talk about the realities of academy football, the sacrifices involved, and how parents can create the right balance between ambition, enjoyment, and wellbeing. Whether your child is already in an academy or you’re hoping to enter that pathway, this episode will help you navigate the journey with clarity and confidence.

Most people grow up believing there’s only one path to success, but what if that’s not true? In this episode, I sat down with Joel Debrah who chose to earn while learning, gaining real skills and real experience outside the classroom. We talk about what apprenticeship life is actually like, the pressure of choosing your own path, and why more young people are starting to question the traditional route and redefine success on their own terms.

In this episode, we sit down with Jossy to talk about what it really means to be a male nanny in a world that often questions men in caregiving roles. From breaking stereotypes to redefining masculinity, Jossy shares the challenges, rewards, and powerful impact of showing up with strength and softness.This conversation dives into why representation matters, not just for families and children, but for young men who feel called to nurturing roles yet fear judgment, because masculinity isn’t threatened by care it’s strengthened by it.

Racism in the workplace doesn’t always look loud. Most of the time, it’s quiet, polished, and easy to deny. In this episode, I sat down with Dr Keisha York and we unpack how bias, discrimination, and unequal power dynamics show up in offices, corporate spaces, and everyday work culture.This conversation breaks down how workplace racism impacts mental health, career growth, and long-term stability for professionals today. If you’ve ever questioned whether what you’re experiencing at work is real or “just how it is,” this episode puts language to it and challenges us to rethink what fairness, success, and inclusion should actually look like in the modern workplace.

I sat down with my friend and grime MC Griminal for an honest conversation about where it all began. We talk school days, upbringing, and discovering music early, then navigating the chaos of talent, attention, and stardom as a teenager in the grime scene.Griminal opens up about growing up fast, finding his voice, and what it really meant to come up in an era that shaped UK music forever. This episode is a reflection of legendary grime moments told by someone who lived it in real time.

“Bet365 had me in a chokehold. So did the roulette machine. Coral. Ladbrokes. William Hill. I’ve hit them all”- Yannick Buditu What starts as “just a bet” can quietly become routine, normalised. Hard to notice until you stop and look. In this episode I sit down with Ryan Taylor Hines Project lead for Betknowmore UK to discuss GAMBLING! We don’t glamorise gambling or shame anyone. We talk about the real impact of gambling harm, how accessible it’s become, and why it affects some communities more than we admit. This episode is about awareness, education, and having the conversation we usually avoid.

I sat down with @fizvancasso , content creator and photographer who didn’t wait for permission to chase the vision burning inside him. We talked about his passion for photography and the quiet courage it takes to turn a craft into a career. Through his lens, Fiz captures more than images, he captures moments, emotion, and intention, one frame at a time. If you’ve ever felt called to create, but scared to start this episode is for you.

In this episode, I’m joined by Alex, who speaks openly about his experience of living and working with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Alex reflects on navigating diagnosis alongside career pressures, identity, and expectations within community. This conversation explores invisible disability, resilience, and what society still needs to understand about inclusion, wellbeing, and lived experience.

On this episode I sat down with Rhia (Founder of Black Teachers Connect) to discuss teaching, her community impact, support and advocacy for black educators plus so much more.Our discussion centres around Rhia's mission to to increase the representation of Black educators at all levels of the education system by supporting and promoting educators into Leadership roles through intentional personal and professional development.

Is there more to nursing than just the ward?” In this episode, I’m joined by Angela Attere, nurse, entrepreneur and all-round powerhouse, to talk honestly about the opportunities that exist beyond the traditional nursing path. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or simply curious about what else your skills can unlock… this one’s for you. NHS nurses, students, career-switchers…let’s open the door to what’s possible

In this episode I sat down with Educator and Cancer Survivor, Vanessa P. She opens up about one of the most life altering moments of her journey, finding out she had CANCER. In this raw, honest and incredibly powerful episode we discuss teaching, faith, parenting and the big C. If you or someone you love has faced a diagnosis like this, this conversation is for you.

In this episode I sit down with Richard Anti Scholar and former membership manager of The Ivors Academy Tareic Alphonse and Malaika Dixon Art Consultant and founder of Chenjerai Design We discuss the slow disappearance of creative arts from our classrooms and society as more than a curriculum change, but a cultural loss. When music, drama, and art are undervalued, we silence imagination, critical thinking, and emotional expression. This episode is a reminder that education should shape minds, not just measure grades

A special live event at Autograph. A deep dive into the British school system through the lens of migration, identity, and generational experience. I explore what it means to navigate education, the challenges, resilience, and cultural exchanges that shape our experiences. I was joined by my mother, a first-generation immigrant who navigated an unfamiliar system so I could thrive in it. Nick Fotsing a former student and someone I once had the privilege of supporting as Head of Year, now reflecting back on his journey in that same system. This is more than a talk. It’s a reflection on education, belonging, and aspiration, across generations.

Most prisoners walk into HMP already years behind in education and that's before the gate even shuts. Sam Omokan joins me to talk about his unconventional route to uni, love for books and what learning really means on the inside.

After experiencing first hand the challenges women face in tech from imposter syndrome to the staggering reality that nearly 50% of women leave the industry by 35. Amber Shand MBCS decided to take action. She created She Bytes Back a platform built to spark conversations, challenge biases, and carve out space for women to not just enter tech, but to stay and thrive. I can’t wait for you to hear her story, her mission, and her vision for the future of women in tech.

I sat with Nana founder of SEN Bytes a passionate SEN consultant making a real difference in the world of Special Educational Needs. Nana brings a powerful perspective that challenges stereotypes and opens up important conversations around parental awareness, EHCP, representation in SEND, breaking down barriers and much more. If you’re a parent, educator, or simply passionate about inclusion, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode I sit down with George the Poet and we explore what it means to learn beyond the classroom, through culture, community and challenges. George has lived at the intersection of all 3 and proves that the journey through education is not always linear

In this reflective episode, I look back on the first year of the podcast journey, the highs, the challenges, and the unexpected lessons that shaped the experience. From learning to trust the process to finding my authentic voice. I'm sharing what worked, what didn't and what I would do differently. Whether you are a creator, entrepreneur, or just someone navigating your own path, I hope these insights resonate and inspire you to keep showing up.

On this episode I sit down with Kemi Oluyinka founder of Black Teachers Network and Co-Author of Black in School. We discuss her book, teaching abroad, supporting black educators and much more.

"While traditional discussions focus on exclusion, the reality is that these harmful trajectories are set much earlier"- Joel Dunn In this episode I sat down with Craig Pinkney founder of Solve: The Centre for Youth Violence and Conflict and Joel Dunn founder of Paradigm Project to unpack one of the most urgent issues affecting our youth. The school to prison pipeline.

I sit down with the amazing Tinuke Awe, founder of Mums and Tea and Five x More, for a heartfelt and powerful conversation around parenting with autism. Tinuke opens up about her personal journey as mother, advocate and changemaker, sharing the highs, challenges and the lessons she has learned along the way

I can't tell my story in education without going back to where it started. The place that shaped me through chaos, culture, resilience and realness, ST BONS! I sat down with 3 of my close friends to discuss learning needs, sanctions, discipline, parenting, influence of music and much more.

I sit down with former students Nick, Ben and Theresa to unpack the real shift from GCSEs to Sixth Form. Their honesty is both refreshing and necessary. My platform exists to amplify the voices. Who else better to share experiences of A-Levels than the students? They aren’t just the future, they’re the present, and their lived experiences deserve space.

In this episode I sit down with Joy Mbakwe, a powerful advocate for justice in education and empowerment. With a passion for uplifting marginalised voices, Joy shares her journey and emphasises how education can be a catalyst for real change. Whether you're an educator, activist or simply curious about how to make meaningful impact, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed

In this episode, we dive into the game beyond the pitch. I sat down with West Ham Academy Coach George Chukwuma and former West Ham Pro Anthony Edgar to explore how education shapes the mindset, discipline, and long-term success of aspiring elite academy footballers. It’s more than talent it’s about balance, vision, and growth.

Behind every strong community are the social workers who uplift, support, and fight for those in need. In this episode, I sit down with Irene, The Social Work Planner, to highlight the incredible yet often unseen work of social workers who navigate immense challenges to create real change. #socialwork #education #Podcast #teaching #advocacy #community

I sat down with rapper Joe Grind, founder of ⁨@JoeysFunHouse⁩ . We discussed the importance of parents understanding the games their children play, setting age-appropriate boundaries, and creating a healthy gaming environment. From in-game dangers to fostering positive gaming habits, we covered it all. Whether you're a parent, gamer, or just curious about the impact of gaming on young people, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

I’m excited to collaborate with Candace Oxley founder of the The Gynae Project on my podcast to break the silence around periods! Sadly, as a culture, we’re still embarrassed to talk about menstruation, and many girls/women live their lives without proper education on how to manage their cycle.Join us as we discuss the importance of period education and work to eliminate the shame and stigma surrounding it.

In this episode, I sit down with Lavinya Stennett and Jeffrey Boakye—two leading voices in education and social change—to discuss the urgent need for anti-racist practice in schools and why diversifying the curriculum is essential. We explore how the current education system shapes our understanding of history, identity, and race, and why an inclusive curriculum isn’t just about representation—it’s about justice, truth, and preparing young people for the world they live in.

I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my former student Myers who’s now a Finance Apprentice at Samsung. On this episode we discuss his decision to not go to university and instead do an apprenticeship, having to convince parents to trust your path, benefits/challenges of an apprenticeship and seeing friends enjoying uni whilst you study and work.

In a world where instant gratification, social media validation, and external pressures often dominate, it’s essential to remind young people/students of the power and importance of self-reliance. Ray Sefah and I discussed the importance of reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth. How we can help young people/students reframe negative thoughts and develop positive self-talk techniques to boost self-confidence and resilience.

I sat down with Educational Psychologists Dr Shyla Barclay and Dr Jason Apaloo-Shonabire. It was amazing to provide a platform for these amazing practitioners to share their experiences and successes in the field of Psychology. This visibility is crucial in inspiring, empowering and motivating the next generation of Black students to pursue careers in these fields.These two experts are inspiring the next wave of educators, psychologists, and leaders who will transform the landscape of education.#Psychology #Education #schools #Podcast

In many Black communities, the emphasis on being strong is rooted in a long history of systemic oppression, discrimination, and survival. Being “strong" often means: suppressing emotions and resilience through being ‘tough’. On this episode guests and I discuss the mental health of young black boys and discover that resilience requires self awareness, emotions are valid in healing and that strength through vulnerability should be celebrated#mentalhealth #therapy #podcast #education #inclusion #trauma #podcast #fyp #trending

On Episode 9- Supacell- Hidden Pains (OUT MONDAY 7pm), I am joined by Rizzy Amole and Alidor Gaspar, where we discussed the systemic gaps in education and healthcare when it comes to supporting those with sickle cell disease or trait.I am privileged to have a platform to address these critical issues while elevating the voices of those who too often go unheard.

On this episode I sat down with Rax Kalia (Finance Industry Professional), Godfrey Asare (Financial Advisor) and Emmanuel Asuquo (Financial advisor and Media personality), where we discussed the keys to empowering individuals (young and old) to make informed decisions about their money ensuring long-term stability and independence.

Adultification isn't just about responsibility. We learn to be resilient and responsible, but at a cost. That cost is we sometimes miss out on just being kids.

In my first Podcast collaboration, I sit down with the men from The Father's Playbook podcast as we dive into the role of Black Fathers in their children's education. We explore strict parenting, school exclusions, representation, and more in a powerful conversation about fatherhood, community and shaping the future.

On this episode guests discuss the Black University experience. This experience is important as it represents a unique intersection of race, identity and higher education, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs of Black students in predominantly white institutions.

Trauma doesn’t just happen in the past—it shapes the way we live, work, and connect every day. In this week’s episode-I sat down with Dr Jo Stubley, Consultant Medical Psychotherapist at Tavistock and Portman as we discussed a topic that impacts us all but is often left in the shadows: TRAUMA IN ADULTS.

In this episode we discuss Mental Health issues among children and adolescents. Issues around wellbeing that are often overlooked or misunderstood. We hope this episode encourages more open conversations about mental well-being.