Wag Tales

Skye Staude is an experienced educator and leader who has spent over 15 years working in alternative and re-engagement education settings with young people who have experienced significant adversity. Now a Deputy Executive Principal across multiple campuses at MacKillop Education, Skye brings a deep commitment to trauma-informed practice, system-level change, and supporting both young people and the adults who care for them. In this conversation, Skye and Megan reflect on their shared journey in the early days of trauma-informed education and the experiences that shaped their work and leadership.Together, they explore what it really means to build trauma-informed systems — not just within classrooms, but across families, staff, and the broader community. Skye shares a powerful initiative from her current work: embedding a family therapist within the school to support connection, reduce isolation, and strengthen the role of families in a young person's life. They also reflect on literacy, early intervention, and the importance of responding to the real needs sitting in front of us, rather than what systems assume.This episode also brings into focus the often unspoken realities of this work — particularly the physiological load on educators and leaders. Megan and Skye unpack the importance of self-awareness, regulation, and psychological safety within teams, and why trauma-informed leadership must include the wellbeing of staff if it is to be sustainable. It's an honest and thoughtful conversation about leadership, relationships, and the systems we need to build if we want to truly support young people to thrive.---Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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.Website: https://wagtailinstitute.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.instituteMusic by Kabbilistic Village: https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Ruby Sait is a passionate advocate for young people with lived experience of out-of-home care, whose work is shaped by her own journey through homelessness, education, and life beyond the system. Through her advocacy, mentorship, and community work, Ruby is committed to ensuring that young people who have grown up in care are not defined by their circumstances but supported to see what is possible for their future. Her story is one of determination, courage, and a deep belief in the potential of others.In this episode, Ruby and Megan explore Ruby’s journey through out-of-home care and homelessness, and the realities of navigating life without consistent support. Ruby speaks openly about the messages she received about her worth and her future, and the determination it took to stay connected to education and create a different path for herself. She reflects on the role of alternative education in providing connection and belonging, and the significance of graduating despite the barriers she faced.The conversation also highlights Ruby’s work supporting other young people with experience in out-of-home care to access education opportunities, including helping them secure scholarships and pathways into further study. Ruby shares why mentorship matters, what it means to be a consistent and encouraging presence in a young person’s life, and how belief can shift someone’s trajectory. Together, they discuss the gaps that still exist for young people transitioning out of care, and the need for more responsive, compassionate systems of support.Ruby also speaks to the emotional weight of sharing lived experience, the balance between empowerment and vulnerability, and the importance of creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. This is a powerful and hopeful conversation that reminds us that young people are not statistics — they are individuals with stories, strengths, and futures worth investing in.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Zach Mercurio, PhD, is a researcher, speaker, and author whose work centres on one of our most fundamental human needs: to feel that we matter. Through his research in organisational psychology and his work with schools, workplaces, and leaders around the world, Zach explores how simple, everyday interactions shape our sense of value, connection, and wellbeing. His work offers a powerful reframe — that feeling seen, heard, and valued is not a “nice to have,” but essential for human development and thriving.In this episode, Zach and Megan explore what “mattering” really means, and how it differs from concepts like belonging and inclusion. They unpack how a sense of mattering is built through small, consistent interactions — noticing someone, affirming their value, and showing that they are needed. Zach shares how these micro-moments can have a profound impact on young people’s mental health, engagement, and sense of identity, and why the absence of mattering can contribute to disconnection, disengagement, and burnout.The conversation also explores what this means in practice for educators, leaders, and anyone working with people. Zach offers simple, tangible ways we can build a culture of mattering in our classrooms, workplaces, and relationships — not through programs or initiatives, but through how we show up in everyday moments. Together, they reflect on the role of technology, the importance of rebuilding relational ecosystems, and why meaningful connection must sit at the centre of any system that aims to support wellbeing.This episode is a powerful reminder that we don’t need to do something extraordinary to make a difference — we need to be intentional in the ordinary. Because when people feel that they matter, everything else begins to shift.You can find out more about Zach Mercurio and grab a copy of his book here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Dr Kate Renshaw is a play therapist, educator, and researcher whose work centres on the role of play in children’s emotional development, learning, and wellbeing. Through her clinical practice, teaching, and advocacy, Kate has spent many years helping adults better understand the language of play and the profound insights it offers into children’s inner worlds. Her work bridges therapeutic practice and education, inviting teachers, parents, and professionals to see play not as a break from learning, but as one of the most powerful ways children learn, regulate, and make sense of their experiences.In this episode, Kate and Megan explore the foundations of play therapy and why play is such an essential part of healthy child development. Kate explains how play therapy draws from a range of experiential therapeutic approaches and how teachers, carers, and other adults can support children through play in everyday environments. They talk about developmentally appropriate learning, the importance of observation and curiosity when engaging with children, and why play is often the most natural language children have to communicate what they are feeling and experiencing.The conversation also explores how our cultural understanding of childhood shapes the opportunities children have to play, and why adults sometimes struggle to interpret or value play in the same way children do. Kate introduces the idea of the “cortical complexity gap” and how this influences the way adults interpret children’s behaviour. Together, Megan and Kate reflect on how play supports emotional regulation, creativity, and problem-solving, and why reclaiming play in both childhood and adulthood is so important for wellbeing.This episode is an invitation to slow down, observe, and reconnect with the power of play. Whether you are an educator, parent, therapist, or simply someone interested in supporting children well, Kate’s insights offer a thoughtful reminder that play is not an extra — it is fundamental to how we grow, learn, and heal.Dr Kate Renshaw's clinical website can be found here.National Institute for Play (US based) https://nifplay.org/Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Jesse Diggins and Nathan Castle are psychologists and co-founders of Psychs in Schools, an initiative working alongside schools to strengthen mental health support for children and young people. Their work focuses on increasing access to psychological services within educational settings, building strong partnerships with educators, and ensuring that support is relational, practical, and responsive to the realities schools face every day.In this episode, Megan, Jesse, and Nathan explore what it really means to provide meaningful mental health support in schools. They talk about the growing needs of young people, the pressure educators are under, and the importance of collaboration rather than siloed support. Together, they unpack how psychologists can work in partnership with school staff, why connection must sit at the centre of wellbeing work, and how assessment services and timely intervention can make a significant difference for students and families.They also discuss the role of technology in young people’s lives — acknowledging both its risks and its potential — and the need for balanced, thoughtful conversations rather than reactive fear. The episode highlights the importance of sleep, play, and safe relationships, and reminds us that supporting student wellbeing is not the work of one professional alone. It requires shared responsibility, clear communication, and a willingness to work as a team.This conversation offers insight for educators, school leaders, and anyone invested in creating environments where young people can access the right support at the right time.You can find out about Psychs in Schools here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Danielle Murphy is a foster carer, writer, and advocate who has spent the past six years walking alongside children and young people in care. Through her lived experience, Danielle brings an honest and grounded voice to the realities of foster care — the deep love it invites, the uncertainty it holds, and the emotional labour required to keep showing up. She is the author of Hearts in Transition, a book written to reflect the stories so often left untold in foster care and to offer connection and support to other carers navigating similar paths.In this conversation, Danielle and Megan explore what foster care really looks like beyond the surface. They speak candidly about the unpredictability of placements, the emotional toll of constant transitions, and the grief that carers and children carry — even when placements are short. Danielle reflects on how schools often struggle to understand the impact of trauma and transition on children in care, and why trauma-informed approaches are not optional, but essential. Together, they unpack how even a few weeks of safety, consistency, and care can leave a lasting imprint on a child’s life.They also discuss what carers need in order to sustain this work — from genuine support systems and community, to honest recruitment practices and acknowledgment of the financial realities of fostering. Danielle shares why self-care is not a luxury for carers, but a necessity, and how building connection with other foster carers can be a lifeline. This episode is a deeply human conversation about holding love and loss at the same time, and what it truly means to care for children during seasons of transition.You can find Danielle's book here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Dr Nathan MacArthur is a grief counsellor, researcher, and the founder of Sydney Grief Counselling. His work centres on helping people navigate the many shapes and seasons of grief — from bereavement and relationship loss to the quieter, less spoken-about forms of grief we carry throughout our lives. Nathan’s approach blends clinical insight with deep humanity, offering gentle, evidence-informed support to individuals, families, and carers, including kinship and foster carers who are often holding complex layers of loss in their homes.In this episode, Nathan and Megan explore what grief really is, not just the pain that follows a death, but the grief tied to identity, missed possibilities, ruptured relationships, and the changes we didn’t choose. Nathan shares his research into adult grief experiences and the ways we can better understand the physical, emotional, and relational impacts of loss. They talk about how grief shows up for children, the importance of clear and honest language, and what adults can do to support the young people in their lives as they make sense of their own losses.This conversation invites us to think about grief as a universal human experience, something we will all encounter, and something we can learn to navigate with more gentleness and courage. Nathan reminds us that grief is not something to fix, but something to honour. Whether you’re supporting others, moving through your own loss, caring for children in complex circumstances, or wanting to feel more confident having conversations about death, grief, and change, this episode offers insight, reassurance, and compassion.You can find more about Nathan and his work here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Content warning: This episode includes discussion of childhood violence, self-harm, and suicidal ideation, which may be distressing for some listeners. Support services are listed below.Aaron Stark is a writer, speaker, and mental health advocate best known for his viral TED Talk, “I Was Almost a School Shooter.” His story has reached millions of people around the world, offering a raw, honest look at how pain, neglect, and rejection can push a young person to the edge — and how a simple act of kindness can pull them back.In this episode, Aaron and Megan talk about the early years that shaped his story — growing up surrounded by violence, instability, and homelessness — and the point where he began to lose hope in himself and the world around him. Aaron speaks openly about the moment he planned to commit an act of violence, and the unexpected friendship that changed everything. They discuss what true connection looks like for young people in crisis, the role of compassion in preventing harm, and why we must offer love to those who seem to need it the least.This episode is confronting, moving, and ultimately full of hope. Aaron’s story reminds us that prevention begins with presence, and that a small act of kindness can quite literally save a life.Help and Support:If you or someone you know needs support, here are some resources available in Australia: • 1800RESPECT – 24/7 national support for sexual assault, domestic, and family violence. Call 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au. • Lifeline – Crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au. • Beyond Blue – Mental health support for anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. Call 1300 22 4636 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au. • Kids Helpline – Free, confidential support for young people (ages 5-25). Call 1800 55 1800 or visit www.kidshelpline.com.au. • Blue Knot Foundation – Support for adult survivors of childhood trauma. Call 1300 657 380 or visit www.blueknot.org.au.Please take care while listening, and reach out for support if needed.If you are outside of Australia, please reach out to your local services for support.You can contact Aaron via his email address: [email protected]: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] Institute on instagramMusic by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Benjamin Perks is a global child-rights advocate, educator, and author of Trauma Proof. Working for the UN in New York, he campaigns on human rights and child development and serves as a Senior Fellow at the Jubilee Centre, University of Birmingham, and an associate member of the Department of Social Policy and Intervention at the University of Oxford. Today, he joins the podcast in a personal capacity as an author to discuss his research and vision for prevention.In this conversation, Benjamin and Megan unpack what a true public-health approach to trauma prevention looks like. They explore the science of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), the economic and moral arguments for investing early, and why prevention must be treated as a social and policy priority—not an afterthought. Benjamin outlines the layers of prevention—primary, secondary, and tertiary—and shares examples of how communities can be strengthened before harm occurs. He also reflects on his own childhood in care and a powerful realisation at a global conference on attachment theory, where he recognised that the research being discussed was describing his lived experience.Benjamin also speaks about the teacher who changed the trajectory of his life, illustrating how one trusted adult can alter a child’s sense of worth and future. This episode is both systemic and deeply human—a reminder that when societies invest in children, connection, and care, the return is not only economic but generational.You can order your copy of Trauma Proof here.You can follow Benjamin's work on LinkedIn here.Host: Megan Corcoran, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wagtail Institute⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wagtail 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 instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Wag Tales walkout songs playlist can be found here.⁠⁠Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam Casson is an educator turned wellbeing leader whose work spans schools, sport, and the corporate world. A former Director of Wellbeing in education, he now leads education and wellbeing at Seafeld Investments and serves as CEO of Reset Moves, a gamified movement platform designed to help children and adults reset their bodies and brains. Liam and Megan first met in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Melbourne, and this conversation brings that shared foundation into focus: evidence-informed practice, real-world impact, and deep care for people.In this episode, Liam and Megan explore the story behind Reset Moves and how movement can become an accessible, joyful tool for regulation and learning. They talk about active screen time, co-design with teachers, therapists, and families, and how the platform is being used across classrooms, therapy rooms, and homes to create short, effective “reset” moments. Liam shares practical examples for educators seeking brain breaks and behaviour support, and for parents wanting simple ways to get kids moving. The discussion also widens to wellbeing more broadly: small consistent practices, listening to the body as life changes, modelling healthy routines at home, and making space for connection and family rituals.This conversation is a reminder that change often starts with simple, doable actions. Liam’s work shows how creativity, community, and smart use of technology can open new pathways to engagement and care. Whether you are an educator, a therapist, a parent, or a leader building healthier teams, you will find practical ideas and plenty of heart here.You can find more about Reset Moves here: https://resetmoves.com/Host: Megan Corcoran, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Wagtail Institute⁠⁠⁠⁠Wagtail 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 instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Wag Tales walkout songs playlist can be found here.⁠Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

Danielle Mifsud is the Academy Director at Humans of Purpose Academy, a social impact organisation supporting women and non-binary people with lived experience of domestic and family violence. The Academy provides a pathway for survivors to rebuild confidence, develop skills, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families. Through community, peer support, and a strengths-focused approach, Danielle and her team are helping participants reconnect with their purpose and agency.In this episode, Danielle and Megan explore what it truly means to empower through community. They discuss the importance of belonging, the transformative role of peer support, and how recovery must be built around strengths, not deficits. Danielle shares her insights on leadership and self-care, the role of mentorship, and how the Academy continues to grow while holding true to its values of safety and connection. Together, they reflect on what it means to thrive — not in comparison to others, but in alignment with one’s own definition of flourishing.This is a powerful conversation about hope, healing, and the strength that comes from being seen and supported. Danielle’s work reminds us that recovery is not a linear path, but a collective journey — one made possible through compassion, courage, and community.You can find out more about the academy here.Host: Megan Corcoran, ⁠⁠⁠Wagtail Institute⁠⁠⁠Wagtail 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 instagram⁠⁠⁠The Wag Tales walkout songs playlist can be found here.Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠⁠⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠⁠⁠

Emma Gentle is an educator, parent, and advocate for reshaping schools through trauma-informed and emotionally intelligent practices. Drawing on her own journey in mainstream education, Emma brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the work of creating classrooms and communities where wellbeing, connection, and authenticity sit at the centre. She is passionate about supporting teachers to understand their nervous systems, regulate themselves, and show up in ways that foster real connection with students.In this episode, Emma and Megan explore the power of trauma-informed practice and emotional intelligence in education, and how these approaches can transform not only teaching, but leadership and parenting too. Together, they have an honest conversation about moral injury — what it looks like in schools, how it impacts teachers’ mental health, and why it is so often overlooked. They reflect on the challenges of working in systems that can pull educators away from their values, and the importance of curiosity, vulnerability, and authenticity in navigating these realities. Emma also shares practical strategies for nervous system regulation, the role of co-regulation in both classrooms and families, and how authenticity can ripple through a school culture to strengthen wellbeing for teachers and students alike.This is a conversation about courage, care, and change. Emma’s insights invite us to rethink what it means to be an educator — not just delivering curriculum, but modelling presence, compassion, and humanity. Her work is a reminder that when teachers are supported to thrive, young people and whole communities benefit, too.You can find Emma on Instagram and LinkedIn.Host: Megan Corcoran, ⁠⁠Wagtail Institute⁠⁠Wagtail 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 instagram⁠⁠Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠⁠

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 Institute⁠Wagtail 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 instagram⁠Music by Kabbilistic Village ⁠https://kabbalisticvillage.com/⁠

Luke Anderson is the founder of Fair Threads, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting families of incarcerated individuals and creating pathways for those reintegrating into the community after prison. With lived experience of incarceration himself, Luke brings a raw honesty and deep commitment to making practical change. In this episode, Luke and Megan explore the story behind Fair Threads, a business that streamlines the process of sending approved items into prisons while also creating transitional employment opportunities for people leaving custody. Luke reflects on his own childhood and the risk factors that led to his incarceration, including trauma, instability, and a lack of supportive systems. They discuss the importance of offering real support to parents who are struggling, and the need to shift our thinking when it comes to young people at risk.This is a conversation about second chances, structural change, and the power of showing up for others and for ourselves.You can find out more about Fair Threads here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] Institute on instagramMusic by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Dr Corey Keyes is a sociologist and psychologist best known for developing the dual continuum model of mental health and for coining the term languishing, a word that gave language to the emptiness so many felt during the pandemic. His new book, Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down, offers both research and reflection on how we move from surviving to thriving, not just individually, but collectively. Megan has been following Corey's work since early in her career and felt incredibly honoured to sit down for this conversation. In this episode, Corey and Megan delve into the heart of his research, exploring the distinction between mental illness and mental health, and how they coexist. They also share personal stories about the people who changed the course of their lives. Corey speaks openly about his childhood and the moment everything shifted when he went to live with his grandparents, his “earth angels,” who gave him the love and stability to thrive. Megan reflects on her own grandparents and the story behind naming Wagtail Institute in their honour. This conversation is a deeply human reflection on suffering, healing, and what it means to build a life of meaning. Together, Corey and Megan explore why wellbeing science must stay anchored in reducing suffering, not just chasing happiness, and how focusing on quality over quantity in how we live, connect, and care for one another might just change everything. You can purchase a copy of the book, Languishing, 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/

Ahmed Sulaiman is a language teacher, entrepreneur, and one of the kindest, most generous people I know. We first met nine years ago when I moved to Nablus in the West Bank to volunteer as an English teacher and study Arabic. What started as a professional connection quickly became a friendship that has remained across distance, years, and the ever-changing reality of life in Palestine.In this episode, Ahmed and I reflect on our shared memories of Nablus and the ways the city has changed over the past decade, from the tightening of checkpoints to increased water restrictions, growing economic challenges, and daily life under occupation. We also talk about what hasn't changed: the warmth of the people, the power of community, and the deep connection to food, land, and culture. Ahmed shares the story of Tabouli Language School, the new business he and his wife, Bianca, have built together, offering online Arabic lessons, Palestinian cooking classes, and language cafés that bring people together across borders.This conversation is about friendship, resistance, and building joy in the face of difficulty. It's a love letter to Palestine, its food, its people, its mountains and stories, and a reminder of how deeply we're shaped by the communities we become part of.You can check out Tabbouleh Language school here.Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail InstituteWagtail 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] Institute on instagram Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Jaime de Loma-Osorio Ricon is a long-time advocate for equity and inclusion in education and community work. As Deputy CEO of Banksia Gardens Community Services and Director of the Northern Centre for Excellence in School Engagement, Jaime has helped shape one of Victoria's most respected models of school–community partnership. With over 20 years of experience in Broadmeadows, Jaime brings both deep local knowledge and a bold systems-thinking lens to the work of supporting vulnerable young people. In this episode, Megan and Jaime explore the powerful model behind Project REAL, a flexible, trauma-informed program supporting students who are disengaged or excluded from school. Jaime shares how his team works across 16 partner schools to build capacity, offer coaching and mentoring, and implement a responsive, evidence-based framework called Building Blocks for Engagement. They unpack the difference between supporting behaviour through skill, not will, and explore both the power and complexity of applying radical inclusion in practice, especially in under-resourced settings. Jaime also reflects on how zero-tolerance policies, exclusionary practices, and binary thinking continue to harm our most vulnerable young people. This conversation invites us to think differently about education, accountability, and care. Jaime's work challenges the assumption that compassion and high expectations can't coexist, and reminds us that real change comes through relationships, context, and deep respect for community. Whether you work in education, community work, youth services, or policy, this episode is for you. You can find out more about the Northern Centre for Excellence in School Engagement 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/

Dr Kerry Hinsby is a clinical psychologist with a background in forensic mental health and the clinical lead of the West Yorkshire Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (Hub), a groundbreaking, trauma-informed initiative supporting health and care workers across the region. Megan first met Kerry in Leeds after multiple professionals insisted she meet her and hear about the work happening at the Hub. She found a model of care that centres relationships, community, and proactive support for those who support others. In this episode, Kerry and Megan explore what makes the West Yorkshire Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Service unique, and why regional, relational models of staff wellbeing are essential, not optional. They dive deep into Schwartz Rounds and what happens when we make space for reflective conversations that go beyond clinical tasks. Kerry also shares her knowledge around critical incident responses, from immediate defusing to longer-term debriefing, and how we can move away from reactive, individualised models to those that are preventative, team-based, and grounded in care. Kerry's work offers a powerful example of what is possible when we truly commit to looking after our people. This episode is for anyone working in health, education, or any caregiving role, and for anyone reimagining how we support staff in the face of trauma, complexity, and exhaustion.You can contact Kerry via email: [email protected] You can find out more about Schwartz Rounds 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/

Dr Michelle McQuaid is an author, workplace wellbeing strategist, and founder of The Good Girl Changemakers. With a PhD in Appreciative Inquiry and years of experience working at the intersection of wellbeing, leadership, and psychological safety, Michelle is shifting the conversation around how we care for ourselves and each other in professional spaces. Her work weaves together evidence-based wellbeing science with deeply human insight, helping individuals and organisations create cultures that are braver, kinder, and more sustainable. In this conversation, Michelle and Megan explore the “good girl” conditioning many of us carry, the people-pleasing, perfectionism, and performance that can become deeply embedded in our sense of identity. Michelle shares how her curiosity in workplace wellbeing led her to recognise gendered patterns of resistance to change and why dismantling these internalised beliefs is crucial for personal and systemic transformation. Together, they explore the power of self-compassion, the importance of unlearning, and how our schools and workplaces consider ways to enhance belonging. Michelle shares reflections from her own upbringing, how early messages about who she was “supposed to be” shaped her internal world, and what it has taken to return to her authentic self. This episode is a gentle yet powerful invitation to reflect on the invisible rules we've been following and how these can limit our ability to show up fully for ourselves and for the young people in our lives. Michelle offers a compassionate, practical roadmap for parents, teachers, youth workers, and leaders who want to create more human-centred environments, where wellbeing is embedded in the culture. If we want young people to feel safe, seen, and supported, we need to start by doing that work within ourselves. You can find Michelle's work on the Good Girl Changemakers 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/

Margaret Thorsborne is a leading figure in restorative practices, dedicated to transforming the way communities address conflict and harm. As the Managing Director of Transformative Justice Australia and Thorsborne and Associates, she has pioneered the implementation of restorative justice methods in schools, workplaces, and communities worldwide. Margaret co-founded Restorative Practices International, the first global membership organization for restorative practitioners, and has authored several influential books, including Becoming a Trauma Informed Restorative Educator (with Joe Brummer). In this episode, Margaret and Megan delve into the essence of restorative practices and their pivotal role in healing and repairing relationships. Margaret shares insights from her extensive experience, discussing the importance of focusing on healing rather than punishment when addressing harm. She opens up about her personal encounters with harm and reflects on supporting her own children through their mistakes, emphasising the value of empathy and understanding in fostering growth. The conversation also addresses systemic issues, highlighting how schools can better implement restorative approaches to create supportive environments. Margaret critiques current political frameworks, pointing out how they often fail vulnerable populations, and advocates for policies that prioritise healing and community well-being over retribution. Margaret's dedication to restorative practices has reshaped how institutions handle conflict, promoting a culture of dialogue and mutual respect. Her insights offer valuable guidance for educators, parents, policymakers, and anyone interested in building more compassionate and effective systems for addressing harm.More on Marg's work can be found here. Check out the Resorative Practices International website. 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/

Richard Rose is a leading expert in therapeutic life story work, a consultant, trainer, author, and international speaker dedicated to improving the lives of children who have experienced trauma. With decades of experience in child protection, social work, and therapeutic practice, Richard has worked extensively with children in out-of-home care, helping them make sense of their histories and find a sense of belonging. As the Director of Therapeutic Life Story Work International (TLSWi), he trains professionals worldwide to use structured storytelling as a tool for healing. Approximately 15 years ago, Megan had the privilege of attending a training delivered by Richard, which greatly influenced how she navigated the relational aspects of teaching young people growing up in out-of-home care. In this episode, Richard and Megan explore the profound impact of life story work, discussing how it helps young people process trauma, relieve guilt, and understand the circumstances that led them into care. Richard shares powerful case studies that highlight the long-term impact of this work and the importance of ensuring children have the opportunity to know and own their own stories. Richard reflects on his commitment to giving back, recognising the ethical responsibility of those who make a living from trauma-related work. His latest initiative, funding THEiA training for thousands of carers over the next decade—including here in Australia—is part of his mission to create lasting change in the sector. This conversation is essential for all carers and anyone working in child protection, social work, or trauma recovery. Richard's insights remind us that storytelling isn't just about the past—it's about shaping a more connected and hopeful future.THEiA is theTrauma, Health and Education International Academy. Check for upcoming dates here. More on Therapeutic Life Story Work can be found 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/

Bea Palya is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, entertainer, amateur actor, business manager, trainer, writer, mother and woman. Bea bundles all of her experience, knowledge, and learning into voice and singing coaching, exploring the deep connection between our voice, embodiment and healing. Through her music and teaching, she helps people reconnect with their authentic voice, moving past fear and limitation to express themselves fully. Singing is a whole-body experience—a fast track to accessing deep emotions, releasing tension, and transforming our inner landscape. Each year, Bea guides 50 people through an intensive journey of self-discovery using the voice as a tool for empowerment and healing. Megan first found Bea at the Oxford Masters Series, where Bea opened for Gabor Maté with an unforgettable singing and embodiment experience. Megan then changed some of her plans at the conference to find Bea and dive deeper into this work, participating in her voice workshop. In this episode, Bea and Megan explore what it means to find and reclaim your voice, both physically and metaphorically. Bea shares how limiting beliefs shape the way we sing and speak, and offers practical exercises to help us move past self-doubt and connect with our true sound. She also speaks about her personal healing journey, the practices she uses to nurture her wellbeing, and the transcendent experiences that can be found while singing. This episode is an experience in itself—Bea sings multiple times throughout, offering a raw and moving demonstration of how voice can shift energy and bring us back to ourselves. Whether you're someone who sings (even just in the car or the shower) or someone who simply wants to feel more at home in your own voice, Bea's insights are powerful, personal, and deeply inspiring.You can find more about Bea, her work and her music by visiting her website. Bea will be at the Oxford Masters conference again this year. You can find more about that 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] Is your wellbeing impacted by caring for others? Are you exposed to the stress and trauma of those you work with? Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or practitioner, the emotional weight of supporting others can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Wagtail Institue has created a 39 page guide (in the form of eBook) on trauma-informed wellbeing for practitioners. You can find out more and grab your guide here. Wagtail Institute on instagram Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Content Warning:This episode discusses domestic homicide, family violence, and trauma, which may be distressing for some listeners. Support services are listed below. Ashton Kline is a survivor, advocate, and ambassador for the Alannah & Madeline Foundation. After losing his mother to domestic homicide as a teenager, Ashton's life was thrown into upheaval—navigating the foster care system, taking on the responsibility of caring for his younger brother, and facing the shortcomings of a child protection system that was not trauma-informed. Despite these immense challenges, Ashton has rebuilt his life with purpose, becoming a university lecturer and dedicating his work to preventing violence and supporting vulnerable children. In this conversation, Ashton and Megan explore the complexities of growing up with domestic violence, the gaps in the systems meant to protect children, and the resilience it takes to break the cycle. Ashton shares his personal healing journey and how he takes care of his wellbeing while doing this important work. He speaks openly about the experience of moving between shelters as a child, the moment his life changed forever with the loss of his mother, and what it was like to be placed in the foster care system at such a critical time. Taking on the responsibility of caring for his younger brother added another layer to the challenges he faced, and he reflects on the ways the system failed to provide the support they both needed. Now, Ashton is committed to changing the conversation around trauma and violence prevention. His work challenges the way society responds to children in crisis, advocating for approaches that centre safety, healing, and long-term support. This conversation is raw, confronting, and deeply important. Ashton's story is one of survival, strength, and the urgent need for systemic change.Help and Support:If you or someone you know needs support, here are some resources available in Australia: 1800RESPECT – 24/7 national support for sexual assault, domestic, and family violence. Call 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au. Lifeline – Crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au. MensLine Australia – Support for men experiencing or impacted by family violence. Call 1300 789 978 or visit www.mensline.org.au. Beyond Blue – Mental health support for anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. Call 1300 22 4636 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au. Kids Helpline – Free, confidential support for young people (ages 5-25). Call 1800 55 1800 or visit www.kidshelpline.com.au. No to Violence – Support for men who use or are at risk of using family violence. Call 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au. Blue Knot Foundation – Support for adult survivors of childhood trauma. Call 1300 657 380 or visit www.blueknot.org.au. Please take care while listening, and reach out for support if needed. If you are outside of Australia, please reach out to your local services for support. 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] Is your wellbeing impacted by caring for others? Are you exposed to the stress and trauma of those you work with? Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or practitioner, the emotional weight of supporting others can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Wagtail Institue has created a 39 page guide (in the form of eBook) on trauma-informed wellbeing for practitioners. You can find out more and grab your guide here. Wagtail Institute on instagram Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Content Warning:This episode includes discussion of child sexual abuse, trafficking, and trauma, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care of yourself as you listen, and don't hesitate to pause or stop the episode if needed. Support services are listed below. Gloria Masters is a survivor, advocate, and author dedicated to protecting children and supporting adult survivors of child sexual abuse. Drawing from her own childhood experiences of abuse and trafficking, Gloria has transformed her pain into purpose, creating tools and resources to educate and empower others. As the founder of Handing the Shame Back, Gloria is committed to raising awareness, providing safe spaces for survivors, and advocating for change on a global scale. In this podcast, Megan and Gloria delve into Gloria's latest book, Keeping Kids Safe, which serves as an invaluable guide for educators, parents, and safe adults. They discuss how the book equips readers with practical strategies to safeguard children, spot warning signs, and create environments where kids can thrive. Gloria opens up about her own story, sharing how the abuse she endured during childhood led to years of turmoil into her early adulthood. She reflects on the tools and strategies she used to heal, from therapy and mindfulness to community support, and how she now prioritises her wellbeing while continuing this important work. The conversation also explores the darker realities of grooming, including the four levels abusers use to manipulate and harm children, and the significant role cognitive dissonance plays in enabling abuse. Gloria's insights are deeply personal yet widely applicable, offering hope and guidance for anyone working to protect children or support survivors. Gloria's courage and expertise inspire us to listen, learn, and take action to create a safer world for children and families. You can find out more about Gloria's work on her websiteExplore the resources and support the charity: Handing the shame backCheck out Gloria's podcast. Help and Support:If you or someone you know needs support, here are some resources available in Australia: 1800RESPECT – National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: 1800 737 732Available 24/7 for confidential support and information. Bravehearts – Support for Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse: 1800 272 831Counselling, advocacy, and resources for survivors and families. Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800Free and confidential support for children and young people aged 5 to 25. Lifeline: 13 11 14Crisis support and suicide prevention available 24/7. If you are outside of Australia, please reach out to local services for support. 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] Is your wellbeing impacted by caring for others? Are you exposed to the stress and trauma of those you work with? Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or practitioner, the emotional weight of supporting others can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Wagtail Institue has created a 39 page guide (in the form of eBook) on trauma-informed wellbeing for practitioners. You can find out more and grab your guide here. Wagtail Institute on instagram Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Dr. Jeremy Goldberg is a Dad, partner, writer, speaker, and creator of Long Distance Love Bombs, a platform dedicated to making kindness cool and building a more compassionate world. Known for his heartfelt words and raw honesty, Jeremy's work explores vulnerability, personal growth, and the power of human connection. Now stepping into parenthood, he brings his passion for kindness and introspection into his evolving role as a father, offering a unique perspective on the intersections of caregiving, healing, and self-discovery. In 2016, Megan met Jeremy when she read some of his writing pieces, reached out and asked if he could coach her. He said yes!In this episode, Jeremy and Megan discuss the transformative journey of parenthood, reflecting on the joys, challenges, and lessons it brings. Jeremy shares how vulnerability and authenticity have shaped his approach to being a dad, emphasising the importance of self-care and kindness in navigating the ups and downs. The conversation explores the impact of societal norms on caregiving, the ripple effects of kindness in relationships, and how showing compassion to ourselves is essential for healing and growth. Jeremy's reflections remind us to be gentle with ourselves and to embrace the messy, beautiful process of becoming. This episode is packed with wisdom, humour, and heartfelt insights for anyone exploring love, parenthood, or personal transformation. You can find Dr Jeremy Goldberg (Long Distance Love Bombs) on Instagram here. Is your wellbeing impacted by caring for others? Are you exposed to the stress and trauma of those you work with? Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or practitioner, the emotional weight of supporting others can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Wagtail Institue has created a 39 page guide (in the form of eBook) on trauma-informed wellbeing for practitioners. You can find out more and grab your guide 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/

Dr Lori Desautels is an author, educator, and pioneer in the field of applied educational neuroscience. She focuses on bringing a neurobiological understanding of behaviour and connection into classrooms, equipping educators and students alike with tools to navigate stress and adversity. As the creator of Applied Educational Neuroscience at Butler University, Lori's work bridges research and practice, transforming how we think about teaching, learning, and relationships in educational settings. Megan has been following Lori's work for a long time, utilising a lot of Lori's practices during her time as a teacher and school leader. In this podcast, Lori and Megan discuss the importance of adults developing an understanding of their own neurobiology and the impact of learning and modelling these skills alongside young people. Lori emphasises that this work isn't confined to the classroom; it's about how we show up in all aspects of life. She shares a candid story about a chaotic day with her Year 5 students, modelling vulnerability and the reality that even experienced educators don't always have all the answers. The conversation also explores a powerful new tool in Lori's work: the ecology map. This tool helps both young people and adults identify practices, places, and people that provide safety and strength, those that feel wobbly but have potential for growth, and those that create stress. Lori's dedication to blending science, compassion, and education has reshaped how we approach learning and behaviour in schools. Her insights inspire educators, parents, and anyone working with children to see relationships as the foundation for growth and healing. Dr Lori Desautels website (which includes so many free resources) can be found here. Is your wellbeing impacted by caring for others? Are you exposed to the stress and trauma of those you work with? Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or practitioner, the emotional weight of supporting others can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Wagtail Institue has created a 39 page guide (in the form of eBook) on trauma-informed wellbeing for practitioners. You can find out more and grab your guide 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/

Zinny Hunt is our youngest guest on Wag Tales to date. At 17, Zinny works as a Student Voice Support Officer and Youth Advocate, bringing a fresh perspective to the table. After graduating high school last year, Zinny dedicated himself to working alongside schools and youth organizations, ensuring that young people's needs and voices are front and center in decisions that affect them. In this episode, Zinny shares his insights on several pressing issues, including what schools can do to best support young people and meaningfully include their voices. We talk about his recent journey to Canberra to represent young people's views on the proposed social media ban. We discuss the impact of care team meetings, which can often feel intimidating and overly focused on deficits, and Zinny offers his perspective on how to make these meetings more supportive. He also opens up about his own experience staying in a homeless refuge, which became an unexpected place of belonging and support, profoundly shaping his advocacy work. Zinny's story is both moving and thought-provoking, offering invaluable insights for educators, advocates, and anyone committed to supporting young people. Megan and Zinny speak about their work with the Education Equity Alliance. 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/

Content warning: In this episode, we discuss the themes of sexual abuse and childhood trauma. If you or someone you know is/are struggling, please seek professional support. If you are in Australia you can call LifeLine 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636. Dr Donna Lyon is the founder of Left Write Hook, which started as a program incorporating boxing and creative writing to support female-identifying and gender-diverse adult survivors of sexual abuse. After battling with a laundry list of symptoms linked to her childhood sexual abuse and trauma, Donna embarked on a healing and alternative justice journey that led her to sobriety, inclusive faith, boxing and getting a PhD. Donna's background is in the arts, filmmaking and education and after a not-so-successful amateur fighting career, she decided to combine her passion for boxing with creative writing to help other survivors like her regain a sense of agency over their bodies and their trauma. Left Write Hook has evolved. It is now also a book, a documentary, and a fast-growing charity- supporting more and more survivors each year. In this episode, Megan and Donna talk about what happens in the program and reflect on their own engagement in creative writing practices and their embodied experiences of boxing. Donna shares some of the results of the program so far, seeing benefits like a reduction in PTSD and increases in markers of wellbeing. Donna also shares her healing journey, the inspiration she found from peer support-based programs and what it was like to launch the first Left Write Hook program. Donna and Megan both acknowledge the benefits that can be found when we heal in community, rather than isolation. We encourage others to engage in alternative programs like Left Write Hook alongside receiving professional support. Left Write Hook will have its World Premiere at the 2024 Melbourne International Film Festival, with metro and regional MIFF screenings from 14 - 25 August. You can find more information and tickets here. Find out more about the Left Write Hook program and the book. Left Write Hook is a registered charity dedicated to helping victim-survivors of child sexual abuse and complex trauma safely connect to, express, release and heal from their trauma. You can make a tax-deductible donation that will go directly towards supporting their work. More information here. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Have you been hoping for an opportunity to participate in a Wagtail Insitute workshop? We have one coming up on October 25th: An Introduction to trauma-informed wellbeing. Find out more here. 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: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.institute/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Linda Rowley is a positive psychology interventionist, workplace wellbeing facilitator and coach, She is known for facilitating environments of trust and collaboration (even amongst groups with diverse perspectives) where individuals can codesign and commit to shared wellbeing goals. Linda has a reputation for communicating complex information in easily digestible and actionable ways, and this podcast episode is no exception. In this episode, Linda and Megan discuss the topics of social anxiety and ambiguous loss. They explore how experiences of social anxiety in children and young people may be resulting in attendance and engagement challenges. Linda shares strategies teachers, parents and other supportive adults can use to support a child through these experiences, including exposure therapy, removing blame and judgment, and providing predictability. They discuss how COVID19 impacted us socially and how this could be impacting children and young people. Linda unpacks the definition of ambiguous loss, which is an experience of loss that is not associated with a death. It can be a loss of emotional connection when a person's physical presence remains, or when that emotional connection remains but a physical connection is lost. Often, there isn't a sense of closure, and Linda shares how we can implement rituals and wellbeing practices to support ourselves through these experiences. You can connect with Linda Rowley on Linked In. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.institute/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Adela Holmes is a passionate advocate for children and young people in the child protection system, having 51 years of experience in the field (so far). Adela has worked with some of the most vulnerable young people in Victoria, centring her work on those residing in out-of-home care. She wrote the Berry Street submission for Take-two (a therapeutic outreach service) and the model for Hustrbridge Farm (the Victorian government's flagship model of therapeutic residential care) and was the founding manager of both. In this episode, Adela shares how she started in youth work, reading Summerhill by A.S Neill and feeling deeply inspired to one day work with young people. Adela studied an Associate Diploma in Social Welfare and then began working as a case planner in Child Protection. She explains the approach in her early career was around “good relationships” and” responding to children's emotions”, yet there was a lack of evidence or scientific understanding of what really worked. Adela's passion for seeing better outcomes for young people saw her take on big projects and managerial roles and staying in the field all these years. Megan and Adela discuss how trauma-informed practice is effective when applied properly, yet can be misunderstood or lost in some systems. They talk about the importance of long-term relationships with those who have experienced complex trauma and ways in which the workforce needs to be trained and supported to ensure longevity is possible. Connect with Adela on Linked In. Adela mentions the book, The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce Perry and Maia Szalavitz Adela speaks about visiting Mulberry Bush School in the UK watching the documentary Hold me tight, let me go. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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 The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Content warning: In this episode, we discuss experiences of mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder and high-risk pregnancy. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek professional support. If you are in Australia you can call LifeLine 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636. Diana Nicholls is a mother to twins, author of 30 Weeks 1 Day: A memoir of strength, survival and mental health, a personal trainer, mental health coach, and a long-distance runner. Diana is passionate about supporting others with their physical and mental health through her business, DNPT after navigating her challenges. 7 years ago, Diana fell pregnant with identical twins and had to navigate the unimaginable stress of a high-risk pregnancy, with the twins developing twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTSS). This meant Diana was on strict bed rest, underwent surgeries while pregnant, and gave birth to the twins at 30 weeks and 1 day. The twins ' survival was touch-and-go throughout the pregnancy and the months following, and Diana had to find a way to navigate this reality. In this episode, Diana openly shares her mental health journey, navigating each day of the high-risk pregnancy and the months that followed. Diana developed post-traumatic stress disorder after spending so many months in survival mode. She openly shares the challenges and the strategies she used to make her way into recovery and health. Diana's story helps normalise the human experience of trauma and how the body and brain protect us through unimaginable experiences. Diana highlights the importance of community and consistency when we are overcoming traumatic events and provides real tips we can put into practice. Megan first came across Diana in 2023, when a mutual friend was engaging in a running fundraiser alongside Diana. Diana was running 7 marathons in 7 days to raise money for Mercy Perinatal here in Melbourne.You can see more about Diana's fundraising in an interview with the Today Show here. You can find Diana's book here: https://www.amazon.com.au/30-Weeks-Day-strength-survival/dp/1648714625#:~:text=30%20Weeks%201%20Day%20is,has%20nothing%20left%20to%20give. Diana's business DNPT is on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/dnpt_coaching/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.institute/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Jack Greig is a teacher, facilitator, and a Doctor of Education candidate at the University of Melbourne. He has worked in urban and remote communities, advocating for wellbeing and equity across school systems, and culturally responsive teaching in collaboration with First Nations and superdiverse school communities. Jack co-founded Teachers' Well, a community of practice for teachers leading wellbeing initiatives, and was a senior teacher on Yolŋu country in Northeast Arnhem Land, NT. Jack and Megan met a few years ago, their paths often crossed through mutual connections and a shared purpose before they decided to explore ways of connecting and working together. In this episode, Jack and Megan discuss their understanding of trauma-informed systems-aware wellbeing practices, reflecting on their shared experiences and practices. Jack and Megan (with their colleague Paul Tupou-Vea) co-founded Teachers' Well as a community to support teachers to become "Wellbeing Education Leaders and Learners" (WELL). Members of the Teachers' Well community are supported in developing facilitation, leadership and wellbeing skills they can practice with their school communities. Jack and Megan speak honestly about some of the challenges that emerged when co-creating a community of practice, along with the benefits of experiencing co-regulation, receiving support from peers, and feeling empowered to take courageous action. They take listeners around the Teachers' Well Compass, discussing the founding values of Purpose, Curiosity, Compassion and Courage. This episode is not just for those working in education settings, but beneficial to anyone focused on human-centred work, trauma-informed wellbeing practices or those looking to develop their community of practice. Jack mentions the following books: Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Education by Alex Shevrin Venet - https://www.routledge.com/Equity-Centered-Trauma-Informed-Education/Venet/p/book/9781032597133 Dialogue: The Art of Thinking Together by William Isaacs - https://www.amazon.com/Dialogue-Thinking-Together-William-Isaacs/dp/0385479999 The Compassionate Systems Framework - https://systemsawareness.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Intro-CompassionateSystemsFramework-March-2019.pdf The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - https://www.amazon.com.au/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic-ebook/dp/B0CGWS3JQ6 Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.institute/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Ben Sacco is the Managing Director of Education Economy, working alongside schools and organisations to amplify their connection to purpose and passion. He has over 20 years of experience in education and business management, bringing a unique perspective to some of the challenges emerging in the education sector. Ben and Megan met a couple of years ago, connecting over their shared vision of seeing better wellbeing for everyone in schools. In this episode, Ben and Megan discuss the conditions needed to improve the wellbeing of education professionals and enhance the outcomes for children and young people. They don't shy away from some controversial ideas, like taking time to consider each individual's role in creating better conditions within the profession and the impact of poor change management practices. Both Ben and Megan welcome questions and further discussion that may emerge from listening to this episode. You can find Ben Sacco's work with Education Economy here. The Trauma-aware Education Conference will be held in Brisbane from October 31 to November 2. Early bird tickets are available until August 23. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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: https://www.instagram.com/wagtail.institute/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Rebecca Harris is the author of Safe to Learn: Embedding Trauma-Informed Student Wellbeing Practices. She also works as a counsellor and consultant. Rebecca has held various wellbeing roles in schools and is deeply passionate about supporting teachers to better understand the stress and needs of students (and themselves) to improve outcomes. Rebecca and Megan had not met before the day of recording; however, they discovered they view the world and education in very similar ways, both focusing on preventing and recovering from the impact of stress and adversity in schools. In this episode, Rebecca and Megan dive right into discussing the education system, sharing reflections from their experiences in schools and insights gained from their consulting work. Rebecca shares her vision of an ideal school where all students are included and appropriately supported. Both Rebecca and Megan acknowledge the incredibly innovative people working in schools, despite the challenges and limitations of the system itself. You can find Rebecca Harris's book, Safe to Learn, along with her counselling and consulting services here: Embedding Wellbeing. Rebecca's Instagram handle is: @embedding_wellbeing. Rebecca is speaking at Glenroy Library on supporting young people with anxiety. Free tickets can be found here: Eventbrite. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, Wagtail Institute. The 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 to [email protected]. Wagtail Institute on Instagram: Wagtail Institute. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: Teachers' Well. Music by Kabbalistic Village: Kabbalistic Village.

Jen Willis is a mother, an educator, speaker, coach, and high altitude mountaineer with Multiple sclerosis (MS), who climbed Mount Everest in 2023. Jen's MS diagnosis began in 2008 after the birth of her third child, but wasn't formally confirmed until 10 years later. Upon receiving the formal diagnosis, Jen decided it was time to live her dream of mountaineering, knowing that MS may one day confine her to a wheelchair. Everest wasn't always the goal, but in an attempt to raise funds for MS research, Jen decided to go for it. Jen joined Megan on the podcast to share her story and the lessons learned along the way. In this episode, she is reflective, open, and vulnerable, sharing what it is like to physically and mentally prepare to climb Everest, recognising the place of the ego, and the emotional (and financial) attachment that comes with such a journey. Jen came so close to reaching the summit, but in a dramatic and emotional turn of events, she missed out and had to turn back after reaching the 4th, and final camp (above 8000m's). The most important lessons for Jen have come after returning home and experiencing a depression that Jen now refers to as the "abyss." Jen speaks of the irony of identifying so strongly with being on the top of a mountain, only to find more of herself after climbing out of the depths of the abyss. There is a lot we can all learn from Jen's story and she is an incredible storyteller, so this is definitely worth a listen. Jen is now working towards her new business, “Climb your mountain”- so, you may like to connect with Jen via her LinkedIn to follow along: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-willis-0b08a251/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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. The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Belinda Jankowiak is an Occupational Therapist (OT), zealous child advocate, and founder of Project Classroom, where she supports educators to create classroom spaces that are soothing and meet the needs of all students and teachers. Belinda has worked alongside educators for over 20 years and shares the science behind the work in ways that are accessible and applicable for all. Megan and Belinda have been following each other's work for awhile and Megan was eager to dive into a conversation with Belinda after always wanting to learn more about regulation from the OT perspective. In this episode, Belinda and Megan discuss the importance of classroom design to support the nervous systems of children, young people and educators, considering things like the noise levels and acoustics, and the visual stimulation of bright colours and classroom displays. Belinda shares some great tips for school leaders to consider, and ideas for teachers with minimal budgets to set up their classrooms. Belinda also shares the importances of incorporating movement into the school day and some strategies to regulate children and young people. Belinda mentions the work of Dr Stuart Shanker on self-reg, which can be found here: https://self-reg.ca/ To learn more about Project Classroom and to get in touch with Belinda, you can access her work here: https://projectclassroom.com.au/ Belinda's LinkedIn is here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belinda-jankowiak-35a92855/ Project Classroom on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectclassroomau?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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. The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Liam Wood is a parent, teacher, school leader, and Director at Cor Effect. Liam's career in education began as he was working in education support while writing a book and he realised he loved the time in the classroom more than the time spent writing. He dived right into teaching through the Teach For Australia (TFA) program, having real experience in the classroom while completing his studies. Since then, Liam has dedicated himself to supporting students most in need, working in schools experiencing disadvantage, coaching teachers in the TFA program, and then spending some years teaching and leading in the Alternative sector. Megan and Liam first met in 2019, working alongside each other in an alternative school. They talk about Liam's first group of students in an alternative setting and how Megan felt imposter syndrome being appointed as Liam's instructional coach. In this episode, Megan and Liam also discuss the importance of trauma-informed approaches to leadership, recognising the experience of staff when they are exposed to trauma in the workplace. Liam shares insights into instructional coaching and the importance of having time for 1:1 support. Megan and Liam both share their own experiences of managing their stress responses and the (effective or not so effective) strategies they have used along the way. Liam recommends the following 2 books: You're not listening, Kate Murphy https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/45892276 The checklist manifesto, Atul Gwande https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6667514-the-checklist-manifesto To learn more about the work happening at Cor Effect, you can visit their website: https://www.coreffect.com.au/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ 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. The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Martin Bisp is the co-founder of Empire Fighting Chance, a boxing gym in the UK that provides Boxing Therapy to vulnerable young people. In 1972, Empire Amateur Boxing Club opened in Bristol, producing a long line of champion boxers, and like most boxing gyms, have a strong community. In 2006, the direction of the club took an unplanned turn when Martin Bisp and Jamie Sanigar decided to have a conversation with 2 young people who were dealing drugs across the road from the gym. To try and get them off the street, Martin and Jamie invited them in for an impromptu session with the invitation to come back in any time. The young people did come back, bringing friends along each time and before they knew it, Martin and Jamie were working (for free) with 50 young people, 5 days per week. From there, schools started to approach them to engage some young people experiencing challenges in schools and the police also started to refer young people. It became clear to Martin and Jamie that they needed to build something sustainable that could reach as many young people as possible. Empire Fighting Chance officially became a charity, which now supports over 5,000 young people per year. They now offer 4 psychologically-informed boxing programs, delivered by qualified therapists. In this episode, Martin shares what they have learned along the way, the ways in which they evaluate their impact and how they learn from their failures. It's helpful to hear from someone like Martin who applies an analytical lens to the work, ensuring it meets the intended outcomes, informed by the young people. Martin also shares some of the success stories of the young people who have engaged in the program, seeing some young people return to school, start university, leave gangs or even now be employed by Empire themselves. Empire Fighting Chance now train other boxing gyms and therapists around the world in the application of Boxing Therapy. If you are interested in taking on the training you can contact them by emailing [email protected] To learn more about the work of Empire and see the incredible impact, you can visit their website: https://empirefightingchance.org/ or find them on social media. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ SOS Palestine is an NGO and not for profit that was established in 1966 to support children and young people at risk due to family breakdown or the loss of a parent. They offer programmes to strengthen families and to provide out of home care services in Gaza and the West Bank. As you can imagine, they are currently working harder than ever, and financial support is needed. You can learn more about their work or donate by visiting https://www.sos-palestine.org/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

David Cerrone is a comedian, clown, actor, teacher, humanitarian, art therapist, and author who travelled the world to understand laughter. In 2016, David set off on a 12-month adventure with the plan to visit 11-12 countries, volunteer, meet people and create a documentary along the way. In 2016, Megan also set off on an adventure, which led her to cross paths with David while they were both volunteering as teachers in Palestine. Megan and David bonded quickly, sharing a deep connection to education and a curiosity to learn more about life through relationships and travel. In this episode, David shares stories and lessons from his project, which took him further than originally planned and kept him on the road for 3 years. He talks about using humour to connect with others, break down barriers, and share healing moments, explaining the philosophy behind clowning. David has taken his work to kindergartens, schools, hospitals, refugee camps and prisons and speaks about the universality of humour. David has been off the road for the past few years, choosing to study art therapy to deepen his knowledge and give a formal name to the work he was doing. He talks about the healing impact this work can have with long-term practice, going beyond the brief moments on the road, to developing sustained relationships with his clients to see some transformation occur. David is an incredible storyteller, hence why this episode is a little longer. You could spend 3 days listening to his tales and having a laugh! You can learn more about David and his work on his Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/davidcerrone/) and on his YouTube channel. Here is a little snippet of his time in Palestine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WT1NChpKSzg On February 28th, Megan is hosting an online workshop to support practitioners working with people who have experienced trauma. This is well suited to teachers, youth workers, social workers, or those who would like to be more trauma-informed. You can find out more and register for the event here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/757450373457?aff=oddtdtcreator SOS Palestine is an NGO and not for profit that was established in 1966 to support children and young people at risk due to family breakdown or the loss of a parent. They offer programmes to strengthen families and to provide out of home care services in Gaza and the West Bank. As you can imagine, they are currently working harder than ever, and financial support is needed. You can learn more about their work or donate by visiting https://www.sos-palestine.org/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

In this episode, Graeme Baird and Megan Corcoran come together to discuss the Senate Inquiry on disruptive behaviour in Australian schools. Both Graeme and Megan are passionate about this topic, having worked extensively with young people who present with behaviour that could be considered “disruptive.” To try and make sense of the inquiry, Graeme and Megan unpack the 2 approaches used by schools and in various settings with young people. The first approach they refer to is behaviourism (the more traditional approach), and the other is the trauma-informed approach. They spend the episode combating the myths, the criticisms, the potential misuse of these approaches, and the unexpected similarities. We'd like to invite you to add to this conversation by sharing your thoughts or questions with us on Linked In. You can do so by connecting with Megan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-corcoran-a5ab1738/ If you missed Graeme's first appearance on the Wag Tales, you can find him in Episode 4 on all platforms. In Episode 4 we discuss the importance of mentorship and the role Graeme played as Megan's mentor throughout her career. More on Graeme's work can be found here: https://mcalpineb.com.au/ The report from this Senate Inquiry is scheduled for February 7: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Education_and_Employment/DASC Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://www.wagtailinstitute.com/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers' Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Marissa (Riss) Williamson Pohlman is a proud Ngarrindjeri woman, who was raised on Wadawurrung Country in Victoria and very recently became the first Aboriginal woman to qualify for the sport of boxing in the Olympics. At the 2023 Australian Elite Boxing Championships in August, she also made history being the first woman to win the Arthur Tunstall Trophy, which is given to the best boxer at the tournament. She will be representing Australia at the 2024 Olympics and has started a very busy training regime to prepare. But, Riss is so much more than boxing. In this episode, Riss very openly talks about her childhood, having lived in 16 foster care homes, experiencing homelessness, and attending 6 different high schools. Riss explains that a high school principal gave her one more chance if she was to sign a behaviour contract and take up a sport, which at the time, was AFL. It was through one of her foster carers that Riss discovered the sport of boxing and she has never looked back. At just 21, Riss is wise beyond her years. She shares some great tips for teachers and schools to consider when working with traumatised young people. She also talks about how damaging the foster care experience can be for young people, particularly for First Nations young people when they are not placed with their community and without connection to their culture. She talks about her adoptive Mum being someone to look up to, who has given her a home and made her boxing career possible. Unfortunately, in the Australian sporting context, athletes do not receive a wage to compete for Australia and are merely supported financially to attend the games. Riss' Olympic journey can only happen through the generosity and support of sponsors and donations. Riss has a Go Fund Me page which can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/marissas-road-to-the-paris-olympics?member=31550049&sharetype=teams&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer You can follow Riss' journey on her instragram: https://www.instagram.com/risswillpohl/ The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ SOS Palestine is an NGO and not for profit that was established in 1966 to support children and young people at risk due to family breakdown or the loss of a parent. They offer programmes to strengthen families and to provide out of home care services in Gaza and the West Bank. As you can imagine, they are currently working harder than ever, and financial support is needed. You can learn more about their work or donate by visiting https://www.sos-palestine.org/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

This episode of the Wag Tales is a special edition to shed light on life in Palestine. In this episode, Megan is joined by one of her favourite people and good friends, the first Palestinian she met when she visited the region. This guest is the BEST tour guide in Palestine, an almost 35-year-old, living just outside of Bethlehem with his wife and 2 children. The first time Megan visited the West Bank, she was with a group of friends, and they did not have a lot of time to navigate the best way to visit, so they spontaneously booked a tour guide. They got lucky and were provided with the best guide you could possibly have, spending the day learning so much and laughing at all his stories and jokes. They ended up spending more than one day with him on this trip, visiting most of the cities in the West Bank. When Megan planned to return to the area to live in Nablus, she was welcomed with a lot of support and friendship (much more like family) from him and his family in Bethlehem. In this episode, the guest shares the story of how him and his wife met and married, despite the complication of holding different identification cards. His wife was a Palestinian born in East Jerusalem, making her an Israeli resident (not a citizen), which provides her with an Israeli ID card and means she must live in areas under Israeli control. He was born in Bethlehem, meaning he holds a Palestinian ID card and is not permitted to live in Israeli controlled areas, yet they chose to marry and face the complication of this situation together. He explains how he has needed to apply for permits to be present at the birth of both of his daughters and shares how complicated this has been both times. They also talk about how different the situation in the West Bank is now to when Megan was there previously. He explains how it takes him approximately 2 hours to travel the 7km to visit his parents and how Palestinians are having their phones broken or they are being assaulted by soldiers at the check points. Megan reflects on the times they spent together when she lived in the West Bank and they talk about the time that he was booked to give a tour to our very own, Tony Abbott... You'll notice this guest has a wonderful sense of humour, he explains that as a Palestinian you either choose to laugh at the situation and see life as an adventure or you might have a heart attack. The episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Teachers Well. You can learn more about their work or purchase a compass journal here: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Our guest mentions the power of boycotting and shares this as an action that anyone can take. Boycott Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) is a strategy initiated in 2005 by 170 Palestinian civil society organisations calling for boycotts, divestment and sanctions against Israel's government and those entities which support and benefit from its actions in relation to Palestinians, until such time as the Israeli government abides by international law and Palestinians are given the rights and freedoms they are entitled to. You can find out how to effectively do this here: https://bdsaustralia.net.au/ SOS Palestine is an NGO and not for profit that was established in 1966 to support children and young people at risk due to family breakdown or the loss of a parent. They offer programmes to strengthen families and to provide out of home care services in Gaza and the West Bank. As you can imagine, they are currently working harder than ever, and financial support is needed. You can learn more about their work or donate by visiting https://www.sos-palestine.org/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Content warning: In this episode we discuss the topic of suicide and mental illness. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek professional support. If you are in Australia, you can call LifeLine 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636. Shane Kelton is an author, speaker, podcaster, personal trainer, husband, and parent of 2 boys. He recently published his book “I didn't want to die, I just wanted the pain to end” which shares his personal struggle with mental illness and suicidal tendencies throughout his teenage years and early adulthood. The book shares some helpful strategies and hopeful insights for others who are experiencing struggle and for those who are providing care to someone else. In this episode, Shane shares what is has been like to publish the book and to speak at various events, organisations, and schools. Megan and Shane discuss some of the misconceptions that can be held around talking about suicide and how ‘not talking about it' was one of the biggest risks to Shane's life. He shares that he hid his struggle from his friends and family, literally hiding from others in his tough moments, to then mask positivity in front of them. Shane now does the complete opposite, sharing his story and modelling vulnerability for others in a hope they don't go through what he went through. He shares that he is living his dream life, acknowledging there are still hard days, he just now has appropriate strategies and tools to work through it- including telling his support network when he hits a tough day! Megan and Shane discuss the ways in which approaches around parenting have changed and how important co-regulation and connection is. They also talk about how the school system hasn't changed enough for someone who may be experiencing struggle. You can find Shane's book here: https://powerstrengthvulnerability.com.au/book/ You can get in touch with Shane through his website: https://powerstrengthvulnerability.com.au/ or his Instagram: shane_kelton Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

This episode of the Wag Tales is a special edition, unlike other episodes you may have previously heard. In this episode, Megan is joined by her good friend, Yahya. Yahya is a Palestinian man, and an optimist, living in Ramallah in the West Bank, Palestine. He has studied extensively and worked several different jobs, including as an Accountant, a researcher, and an advocate for workers' rights. Megan and Yahya met when he received a scholarship to come to Australia and study social sciences and community development a few years ago. Megan lived in Nablus in the West Bank in 2016, teaching English to high school students in local villages, and to women starting their own businesses in Nablus. Megan met some lifelong friends while living in Palestine and cannot put into words the level of care and friendship extended to her during her stay. Megan and Yahya did not meet while she was living there, however, when he received his scholarship, some mutual friends put them in touch, and they met several times while Yahya was in Australia on his scholarship. In this episode, Yahya shares what the day-to-day life in the West Bank is currently like. He talks about the challenges of travelling between villages and cities, the violence from Israeli settlers, and the experience of those being arrested and imprisoned. Yahya shares some personal experiences and some challenges his family has recently faced in their village. He also shares his optimistic side and how embracing day-to-day life, despite the struggle of occupation, is their own way of resistance. Yahya recommends checking out these sources for more information and education on Palestine: Visualising Palestine: https://visualizingpalestine.org/ The Palestine Academy: https://www.thepalestineacademy.com/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Dr Peggy Kern is a Professor at the Centre for Wellbeing Science at Melbourne University, with a BA in Psychology, and a Masters and PhD in social/personality psychology. If you were to start reading some academic papers or recent texts on wellbeing science or positive psychology, you would quickly come across Peggy's name! Peggy and Megan met in 2018 while Megan was completing her Masters of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) at Melbourne University and was completing her capstone on belonging. In this episode, Peggy shares how the field of positive psychology is currently in what is referred to as the “third wave”, where the idea of complexity is being more widely recognised and explored. Peggy explains the way wellbeing is defined, experienced, and measured is changing, how AI can assist with future research, and how systems thinking is continuing to be explored. Peggy also shares her own story of moving to Australia, working in high pressure environments, and her recent experiences with mental illness. Peggy publicly shares her experiences as she recognises that others can learn from her story and take their own steps to manage their self-care. She highlights that this is particularly important for those also working in wellbeing roles where care is given to others. Peggy talks about the treatment she received while in hospital and how this has guided her thinking around what the general population should be learning about psychology and therapeutic practices. Megan and Peggy discuss some of the wellbeing strategies that Peggy now implements in her day-to-day life, including self-compassion, informal mindfulness, time with her puppy, and gratitude. Peggy also engages in endurance sports, having completed 12 marathons and numerous long-distance running, swimming, and cycling events. You can find out more about Peggy and her research here: https://www.peggykern.org/ If you are wanting to learn more on self-compassion, Kristen Neff's work can be found here: https://self-compassion.org/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Kristy Elliott is a consultant leading the way in restorative practices in schools through her work with Restorative Pathways. Kristy is a wife, a parent, a lifelong teacher, and a lifelong learner who has dedicated her work to the wellbeing of students and staff in schools. Megan and Kristy met towards the end of 2022, while both working as external consultants on a project. They have had the pleasure of collaborating in various ways for the past twelve months, often bouncing ideas between them. In this episode, Kristy shares the story of how she learned (and quickly led) restorative practices in schools early in her teaching career. She breaks down the definitions and explains how schools started adopting this work to support communities where harm between students had occurred. Kristy explains how restorative practices can support student and teacher wellbeing and she provides some tips on how we can bring parents and caregivers on the journey, too. Megan and Kristy share some stories of managing student conflict, repairing relationships in schools, and they discuss the importance of adults also engaging in these practices. You can find more on Kristy and Restorative Pathways here: https://restorativepathways.com.au/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Marie McLeod is Founder of ThriveAbility and How to Thrive program, Creator of the BEACON framework™️, Mental health specialist, Keynote Speaker, Coach, and positive psychotherapist as seen in the "How to Thrive" film. Marie has been a social worker in child protection, juvenile justice, disability services, and neighbourhood renewal. Megan and Marie had not met prior to recording the podcast, despite realising a lot of their work history has some cross over. In the ‘How to Thrive' film, Marie takes a group of volunteers who are experiencing struggle through a program using interventions grounded in positive psychology, neuroscience, and wellbeing science. In this episode, Marie shares what it was like to support the group, how the Melbourne lockdowns hit at the same time as the program, and the importance of creating safety and connection between the participants. Marie shares some of the outcomes the participants experienced, all exceeding the expectations of those working on the film. Megan and Marie discuss some of the gaps of the PERMA wellbeing framework and how Marie worked to create the BEACON framework for thriving. Marie shares her personal journey of finding positive psychology at a time when she was experiencing struggle herself. She explains that she found herself accessing services that were problem focused and not necessarily helpful. Marie explains that positive psychology provided her with a new lens of “what is strong?” rather than “what is wrong?” and has been applying it to her life and work ever since. Megan highly recommends watching How to Thrive. The film (and extra resources) can be accessed here: https://www.howtothrivefilm.com/ More on Marie McLeod can be found here: https://www.mariemcleod.com/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Matthew Hartnett is an AFL Talent League Wellbeing Coordinator and a long-term teacher, with a passion for supporting those he interacts with to develop skills and resources for their mental health. Megan and Matt first met in 2018 while both studying their Masters in Applied Positive Psychology. Megan remembers Matt saying it was his dream to one day work for the AFL in a wellbeing role. Matt now gets to live this dream, working with under 18 AFL hopefuls on their wellbeing, through whole team initiatives and 1:1 support. In this episode, Matt talks about the importance of wellbeing on performance, whether it be sport performance or performing in other roles we take on. He shares some of the strategies he uses with the football team, including character strengths, mindfulness, positive relationships, and a balanced approach to their aspirations. He talks about the powerful moments shared when the boys all meditate together before a match. While taking on his dream job, Matt continues to work in a school as a Year 5/6 Coordinator, still speaking with a lot of passion for education after 25 years in the field. Matt suggests that the key to his longevity in education is through having a strong community, using the school holidays to recharge, and ensuring he has variety in the roles he takes on. Matt also talks about his beautiful family, sharing what it is like raising 3 daughters (who are luckily into sport), and how growing up with a brother with down syndrome taught Matt a lot about empathy, wellbeing, and love. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Penny Netherwood joins us on the podcast all the way from Leeds in the UK. Leeds is currently working towards becoming a trauma-informed city, known as ‘Compassionate Leeds.' Penny is a consultant clinical psychologist and the health co-lead for the Compassionate Leeds project. Megan first came across the work happening in Leeds when some of Penny's colleagues attended a Wagtail Institute webinar. As soon as Megan heard about Compassionate Leeds, she knew she needed to learn as much as possible from the people behind the project. In this episode, Penny shares the ambitious vision for Leeds to work collectively as a trauma-informed city, where children, young people, and families feel safe and can thrive. Leeds is taking a cross-sector approach, where people working in education, health, social work, and community sectors come together to collectively roll out the strategy. Penny explains the careful consideration and intention behind the language being used in the project, unpacking terms like “trauma,” “trauma-informed,” and the “compassionate approach.” Megan and Penny discuss some of the key factors that made this possible in Leeds and discuss the importance of slowing down and considering appropriate implementation across systems. Penny shares that the Compassionate Leeds project is moving beyond just providing trauma-informed training, and is using a more responsive, and needs-focused approached. Penny and Megan acknowledge that trauma-informed practice is not just one-off training, but is constant and intentional work. More on Compassionate Leeds can be found here: https://www.mindmate.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Stage-1-Trauma-informed-strategy-doc-5.pdf Penny mentions Myron Rogers and “Myron's Maxims” which will be of interest to those considering systems thinking. https://www.leadershipcentre.org.uk/team-enabler/myron-rogers/ Myron's Maxims are included here: People own what they help create Real change happens in real work Those who do the work, do the change Connect the system to more of itself Start anywhere, follow everywhere The process you use to get to the future is the future you get. Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/

Mat Rad is “two feet and heartbeat”, using boxing as a vehicle to support mental health. Mat is a boxing coach and advocate for healthy masculinity, movement, and mental health. He coaches a variety of people, from high school groups, first time boxers, through to those competing in the sport. It is through boxing that Megan and Mat met, and both acknowledge the benefits of the sport on their own health and personal development. In this episode, Mat shares his own story of struggling with mental health and experiencing panic attacks while working a corporate job. He sheds light on how we often separate physical symptoms from mental health experiences and chase an easy fix. Just over 12 months ago, Mat experienced the loss of his Mum and Grandmother just days apart, giving him the push to drastically change his situation. Mat sold his possessions and spent months hiking his way through Tasmania while processing his grief. He speaks with an incredible insight and gratitude for his experiences, but is honest about the conscious effort, the professional support, and practice he puts in place to hold this mindset. Mat is passionate about mental health for all, with a particular focus on healthy masculinity. He talks about the importance of vulnerability and connection for men (of all ages). While Mat and Megan discuss some heavy topics, this episode is also filled with a lot of laughter and boxing puns, too. You can look into training with Mat by contacting him on his Instagram (@mr_mat_rad) or checking out his workplace here: https://tributeboxing.com.au/ This episode is sponsored by Teachers' Well: https://www.teacherswell.com/ Host: Megan Corcoran, Wagtail Institute, https://wagtailinstitute.com/ Music by Kabbilistic Village https://kabbalisticvillage.com/