The Still Human Podcast

Dr Emma Kell, director of Those That Can, teacher, performance coach and author, shares insights into teacher wellbeing and sustainable careers in education.In this episode, Emma reflects on her journey in and out of the classroom and what she learned from working in challenging school contexts.She explores what wellbeing really means in schools, moving beyond bolt-on initiatives to focus on culture, policies and everyday interactions, and discusses the difference between resilience and endurance.Emma also shares the thinking behind Real Lives of Teachers, reflects on post-COVID challenges in education, and offers simple, realistic ways to support wellbeing, including noticing small wins and having something to look forward to.Read Real Lives of Teachers Learn more about Those That Can

Simon Botten, executive headteacher in Bristol and author of ‘Headteachering’, shares practical insights into sustainable leadership and staff wellbeing in schools.In this episode, Simon reflects on his journey into headship and explains why he embraces the complexity and uncertainty of leadership.He explores the first 100 days in a role, including building trust, creating clarity of purpose, and securing early wins through culture, environment and behaviour.Simon discusses how to develop happy, effective teams through psychological safety, honest communication and strong relationships, alongside practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining boundaries and staying connected to the joy of working with children.Learn more about Simon’s work here: https://headteachering.uk/

Sue Ackroyd, CEO and executive principal of the William Henry Smith Foundation, shares insights from her 37-year career supporting children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs.In this episode, Sue discusses trauma-informed leadership, designing curriculum that gives students real “currency” for life, and building a culture focused on quality of life for both students and staff.Sue also outlines practical approaches to staff support, including wellbeing activities, clinical supervision, therapy access, and menopause support, and highlights why self-care without guilt is essential for retention and sustainable practice.

Louise Shields, School Business Manager and Senior Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead at Beacon of Light Alternative Provision School, shares how schools can build a strong culture of staff wellbeing in demanding environments.In this episode, Louise reflects on 25 years of working across different education settings and explains how she reshaped the school’s wellbeing policy, introducing dedicated staff wellbeing days and creating a wellbeing team.She discusses the emotional demands of alternative provision, the value of daily briefings and safeguarding support, and practical initiatives, from walks and quizzes to menopause awareness, that help strengthen staff morale and connection.

Haley White, founder of Menospace, and Victoria Brookbank, founder of Minds That Work, discuss menopause, mental health and workplace wellbeing.In this episode, Haley shares her experience of perimenopause and how it led her to develop menopause training for organisations, while Victoria reflects on her work in psychotherapy and workplace culture change.Together they explore common psychological symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, sleep disruption and brain fog, and why stigma and lack of awareness can prevent people from getting the support they need.They also discuss practical workplace adjustments, how managers can foster psychologically safe conversations, the importance of including men in these conversations, and the growing focus on menopause support in workplace policy.

Helena Marsh, experienced school and trust leader and teaching head at Linton Village College, discusses relational leadership, emotional intelligence, and how coaching conversations can help shift school culture away from top-down problem-solving.In this episode, Helena explores collaborative leadership, developing a workload and wellbeing charter into a wider culture code, and the role of shared responsibility across schools.She also reflects on co-founding WomenEd, changes in the profession over the past decade, including flexible working, and practical ways leaders can sustain wellbeing through strong networks, reflection, and support.

Steve Munby, leadership speaker and author of Imperfect Leadership, explores why effective leadership is rooted in self-awareness, humility and collective responsibility.In this episode, Steve reflects on his journey from his first years as a teacher to leading major education organisations, and explains why he challenges the myth of the “hero leader.”He discusses psychological safety, modelling vulnerability, and how tools like 360-degree feedback can help leaders grow and prepare for headship.

Diana Osagie, secondary school leader and author of Courageous Leadership, shares what it really takes to lead with courage in education.In this episode, Diana reflects on her journey from science teacher to headship and the emotional realities of leadership.She explores resilience, self-awareness and strategic clarity, alongside the importance of vulnerability and strong support networks.You’ll hear practical insights on intentional self-care, celebrating small wins and answering the call to leadership in ways that are sustainable, human and values-led.

Jason Rawding, founder of My Beast, explores how humour and storytelling can strengthen wellbeing, belonging and psychological safety in education.In this episode, Jason shares why laughter matters at work and how intentional humour can build trust, connection and more human teams.He reflects on the role of storytelling in leadership and the impact of openness and empathy on team culture.You’ll hear practical ideas for bringing humour into everyday school life, along with insights on creating environments where staff feel safe, seen, and valued.

Christina Lord, founder of Authentic Action Coaching, shares how energy leadership and breath work can support resilience in demanding roles.In this episode, Christina explores managing energy rather than time, the power of the breath, and learning to become your own observer.She introduces the role of playful curiosity in leadership and wellbeing, and how small, intentional practices can reduce stress and build resilience.

Tamu Thomas, author, keynote speaker and leadership consultant, explores burnout, toxic productivity and wellbeing at work.In this episode, Tamu draws on her book Women Who Work Too Much to unpack how overwork, pressure and unexamined productivity cultures affect women in education and beyond.You’ll hear practical reflections on recognising limits, building self-awareness and working with the nervous system to create healthier, more sustainable ways of leading and living.

Warren Carrett, CEO of Nexus Multi-Academy Trust, shares his approach to leadership, kindness and staff wellbeing in education.In this episode, Warren reflects on his varied career across the NHS, local government and schools, and how those experiences shaped his belief in values-led leadership.He introduces Nexus’s five pillars of happiness and explores the role of headteachers in creating positive, supportive working environments.You’ll hear insights on perspective, self-awareness and reflection in leadership, alongside practical wellbeing habits and the importance of humour when navigating challenge and change.

Lee Pace, Deputy Head Teacher at James Bateman Middle School, and Dave Anderson, aka Pep the Poet, explore emotional resilience, imposter syndrome and wellbeing in education.In this episode, Lee and David draw on their forthcoming book Fear Tells Lies to unpack how fear, self-sabotaging thoughts and pressure show up for educators.You’ll hear practical ideas such as focusing on what’s within your personal “hula hoop,” the value of trusted tribes, and how supportive relationships help educators stay grounded and well.

Adrian Bethune shares his wellbeing journey, from burnout and 'Angry Adrian' to championing purpose, self-care and small steps towards change in schools.In this episode, Adrian reflects on his journey from the music industry into teaching and explains why a manageable workload, being a “good enough” teacher, and small, consistent actions matter more than perfection.He explores realistic ways schools can support staff wellbeing without adding pressure, and discusses the role of parents and community in creating healthier school environments.

Nick Osborne, CEO and founder of Maritime Academy Trust, shares his approach to building positive, creative and sustainable school cultures.In this episode, Nick explores leadership grounded in trust, humour and collaboration, and explains why staff wellbeing sits at the heart of effective education.He discusses practical ways leaders can support mental health, encourage proper rest, and create conditions where innovation and creativity can flourish.Nick also reflects on the trust’s entrepreneurial curriculum and the role of continuous professional development in helping both staff and students do their best work.

Author, swim guide, and lifelong outdoorsman Pete Kelly explores how time spent outdoors can transform wellbeing, resilience, and perspective.In this episode, Pete shares his journey of pioneering adventure swimming through Swim the Lakes and explains the mental and physical benefits of wild swimming, walking and spending time in nature.You’ll hear why “fitting your own oxygen mask first” matters, along with practical ideas for weaving outdoor moments into everyday life, even with a busy schedule.Pete also reflects on the joy, clarity, and quiet sense of achievement that come from outdoor challenge, offering simple, accessible ways to get started.

Tina Farr, headteacher of St. Ebb’s Primary School in Oxford, shares how joy, connection and trust shape the culture of her school.In this episode, Tina draws on three decades of experience to discuss embedding psychological safety, supporting staff wellbeing, and giving teachers greater autonomy.She reflects on practical initiatives, such as the “circle of alchemy,” and on the importance of slowing down to notice small moments of joy in everyday school life.Tina offers thoughtful perspectives on creating school environments where people feel safe, valued, and energised in their work.

Andrew Hampton, former headteacher and founder of the Girls on Board, shares insights into empathy, relationships, and emotionally healthy school cultures.In this episode, Andrew discusses empowering young people to manage friendships, building empathetic school environments, and the role of positive emotions in learning and wellbeing.He explores how school leaders can model empathy and create psychologically safe spaces for both students and staff.

Dave Whitaker, CEO of Wellspring Academy Trust and author of The Kindness Principle, shares insights into relational leadership and the role of kindness in education.In this episode, Dave reflects on his journey from mainstream secondary education to leading special and alternative provision academies.He discusses relational behaviour management, unconditional positive regard, and the importance of empathy and strong relationships in schools.Dave explores practical ways leaders can promote staff wellbeing and create positive school cultures, drawing on the principles that have influenced schools across the country.

Richard Kielty, senior school improvement officer for Education North Tyneside, shares how character, care and community shape the culture of his schools.In this episode, Richard draws on his extensive experience in education to discuss reducing staff turnover, recognising burnout, and the role of emotional intelligence in school leadership.He also explores the challenges faced by female educators during menopause and the importance of inclusive, supportive practices.Richard reflects on why leaders modelling self-care and empathy play a crucial role in creating schools where people feel supported and able to do their best work.

Psychotherapist and former teacher Maria Roberts discusses the power of joy in our lives, our classrooms, and our leadership.In this episode, Maria reflects on her journey from classroom teaching into counselling and research, and discusses the barriers that prevent educators from experiencing joy in their work.She draws on positive psychology to share practical ways to notice, cultivate and protect joy, both personally and within school environments.

Debra Rutley, part-time CEO of Aspire Schools, shares how flexible working, values-led leadership, and human-centred approaches can support staff wellbeing in education.In this episode, Debra reflects on her experiences of part-time leadership and explains her philosophy of leading with love, embedding gratitude, forgiveness, and intentional behaviours across her trust.She shares practical strategies for supporting staff, including end-of-day gratitude practices and dedicated offsite time for leadership.

Simon Richardson, director of Golden Tree CIC, shares how compassion, psychological safety and transactional analysis can shape healthier, more human workplaces in education.In this episode, Simon explores the drivers of stress in schools and discusses practical ways individuals and organisations can create blame-free environments.He reflects on the role of mindfulness in communication, the importance of self-compassion, and how laughter and humour can support wellbeing at work.Simon offers accessible, actionable strategies to help education staff build more supportive, sustainable working cultures.

Hywel Roberts, experienced teacher and author, shares insights into teaching, school culture, and supporting staff in education.In this episode, Hywel discusses the importance of storytelling, relationships, and compassion in teaching, drawing on ideas from his books, ‘Oops! Helping Children Learn Accidentally’ and ‘Botheredness’.He explores how professional imagination, intellectual curiosity, and self-care help teachers sustain their work.Hywel reflects on the impact of leadership on school culture and explains why supportive environments are essential for both staff and students to thrive.

Keziah Featherstone, executive headteacher at The Mercian Trust and author of Punk Leadership, shares insights into values-led leadership and school culture.In this episode, Keziah reflects on her unconventional route into teaching and discusses the importance of leading with values, understanding your “why”, and building strong, positive cultures in schools.She explores leadership approaches that support staff wellbeing, managing mistakes, and maintaining balance in demanding roles.Keziah offers thoughtful perspectives on sustainable leadership and the everyday practices that help schools and the people within them thrive.

Fitness and women’s health expert, Amanda Thebe, discusses menopause and its impact on wellbeing, especially in the workplace.In this episode, Amanda shares her personal journey through menopause and depression and highlights the importance of education and support for women during this phase.She explores common misconceptions about menopause, the benefits of strength training, and the role of lifestyle changes in managing symptoms.Amanda offers practical insights into managing menopause and supporting others through the transition, with a focus on realistic, sustainable wellbeing practices.

Former Big Brother winner Anthony Hutton opens up about his experiences, breaking stigma around men’s mental health, and why speaking up is a strength.In this episode, Anthony discusses his personal experiences with depression, substance abuse and financial hardship, and how he rebuilt his life through openness, connection, and purpose.He discusses the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, the importance of talking openly, and how activities like cold water swimming, exercise, and community support can improve wellbeing.Anthony also explains how his work as a barber and his retreats provide safe spaces for men to connect, heal and feel supported.

What does it take to build a truly supportive culture in special schools? Claire Dora OBE, Chief Executive of the National Association of Special Schools (NAS), shares insights into staff wellbeing and leadership in special education.In this episode, Claire discusses the pressures facing staff in special schools, including stress management, neurodiversity, and the importance of self-reflection for leaders.She highlights the need for individualised support, strong leadership involvement in wellbeing, and innovative approaches to recruitment and retention.Claire explains how prioritising staff wellbeing in special education can lead to better outcomes for children and young people with special needs.

What does it really mean to put staff first? Jonny Uttley, CEO of TEAL, shares insights on workload, leadership, and practical ways to make teaching a sustainable profession.In this episode, Johnny reflects on his journey into education and discusses the challenges of leading a trust, including managing workload, pupil behaviour, and creating positive working environments.He explores the importance of supportive leadership, teacher retention, and putting staff first as a foundation for a strong school culture.Johnny also shares practical ideas from his book, Putting Staff First, and offers thoughtful perspectives on the realities educators and leaders face today.

Exhausted but unable to switch off? Physiologist, sleep expert and author, Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, joins us to explain why insomnia is on the rise among education staff.In this episode, Nerina discusses the importance of regulating energy throughout the day and five practical steps to help reset the nervous system for better sleep.She also shares the idea of inner safety and why it plays a crucial role in supporting long-term wellbeing. Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience, Nerina offers realistic, accessible strategies to help educators improve sleep, restore energy, and work more sustainably.

Dr Helen Kelly, former international school principal and expert in educator wellbeing, shares insights into the causes of stress and burnout for staff and leaders working in schools.In this episode, Helen reflects on her journey from law into education and discusses the factors that contribute to workload pressure and burnout in schools.She explores practical strategies for managing workload, building supportive school cultures, and prioritising self-care to support sustainability in education.Helen also highlights the importance of community within schools and explains how strong connections can improve staff wellbeing, leadership effectiveness, and overall school culture.

Musician Mark Deeks uses music to reduce stress and improve mental health, and explains how even listening to heavy metal can have health benefits.In this episode, Mark discusses how music can support emotional wellbeing through active engagement and through more intentional listening.He shares his personal relationship with music, including the creation of a melody in memory of his daughter and reflects on how music can help process emotion and connection.Mark offers practical ideas for building a more intentional relationship with music and explains how simple, everyday musical practices can support wellbeing for educators and school communities.

Simon Hart, principal of Springwest Academy in West London, explains how fostering a culture of kindness and gratitude has transformed his school.In this episode, Simon discusses leadership approaches influenced by Buddhist principles, balancing kindness with discipline to create supportive environments for both staff and students.He explores practical ways to improve staff retention, build meaningful connections, and sustain positive, values-led cultures in schools.Simon reflects on why intentional kindness, clear expectations, and everyday leadership behaviours play a vital role in creating schools where people feel supported and able to thrive.

Adventurer and teacher Steve Hill, MBE, discusses how his adventures – through jungle, desert and arctic wasteland – have fuelled his passion for education.In this episode, Steve reflects on his journey from an unfulfilled career to becoming a teacher who inspires students through extraordinary challenges, including endurance events in extreme conditions and the creation of a charitable trust.He discusses the importance of having a clear “why”, living outside comfort zones, and embracing failure as a source of growth.Steve explains how challenge, self-belief and service to others can strengthen wellbeing and motivation, and highlights the powerful role educators play in shaping young lives both in and beyond the classroom.

Emma Shepherd, founder of the MTPT Project, shares insights into the experiences of teacher-parents and the impact of the “motherhood penalty” in education.In this episode, Emma draws on her research and the MTPT Project's work to explore the challenges facing teachers who are parents, including retention and attrition, as well as the need for more family-friendly policies in schools.Emma highlights why understanding and supporting teachers who are parents is essential for building more inclusive, sustainable education systems.

Psychologist, yoga teacher and health and fitness coach Suzy Reading explains why rest is essential for educators and how it supports sustainable working in schools.In this episode, Susie shares her framework of the eight pillars of rest and offers practical strategies for building moments of rest into the school day.She discusses how rest supports emotional wellbeing, the role of school leaders in creating cultures that prioritise staff, and the importance of self-compassion when rest feels difficult.

Darren Hankey, principal and chief executive of Hartlepool College of Further Education, talks about how to foster staff wellbeing and a sense of belonging.In this episode, Darren discusses creating a culture of clarity, autonomy, and belonging, and shares practical strategies for maintaining wellbeing, including sleep, diet, exercise, and expressing gratitude.Darren highlights the powerful impact of recognising staff contributions and explains why prioritising wellbeing is essential for the success of both staff and students.

Curriculum expert, author and former headteacher John Tomsett explains the benefits of values-based leadership in education.In this episode, John discusses value-based leadership, building psychological safety, creating cultures of trust, and reducing unnecessary workload. You’ll hear practical ways leaders can support staff wellbeing, strengthen school culture, and build sustainable leadership.John shares insights from his books, 'Putting Staff First', 'Love Over Fear', and 'Mind Over Matter', emphasising the critical role of school leadership in creating a positive, sustainable culture where both staff and students can thrive.