This episode focuses on how teachers can avoid feeling overlooked, particularly those with significant experience. The discussion includes the importance of self-reflection, skill development, positive affirmation, and aligning oneself with future leadership roles. I also touch on dealing with online criticism and I recognise the trauma and challenges educators face. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update00:45 Addressing Teacher Overlook and Job Applications02:54 Personal Chal...

In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I speak with Lisa Kirwan, a lecturer in pediatric nursing at Trinity College and a PhD student. Lisa shares her recent struggles with securing childcare for her four-year-old daughter and the advocacy work she has undertaken to raise awareness about the lack of childcare resources. We delve into the importance of community support, the role of empathy and communication in education, and the significance of networking and leaders...

In this episode, HR consultant Maura Hurley joins us to discuss her extensive experience in HR management and consulting for SMEs. The conversation spans various subjects, including succession planning, organisational culture, recruitment, and the importance of emotional intelligence. Maura also emphasises the benefits of self-awareness, continuous learning, and strategic leadership while sharing practical insights for conducting interviews and handling workplace challenges. TIMESTAMPS 00:32 ...

In episode 36, I dive deep into the importance of networking, its benefits, and strategies to overcome common networking blocks. I also share my personal experiences from a course at UCD's Innovation Academy and offer actionable steps for educators to start building their networks. Additionally, I highlight my upcoming networking event called The Lead Together Networking Event for teachers. TIMESTAMPS 00:33 Personal and Professional Updates01:37 The Importance of Networking07:11 Defining Netw...

In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I am joined by Maureen Mc Cowen, a presentation specialist and former post-primary teacher. We discuss the importance of effective communication, how to strategically prepare for interviews and presentations, and the nuances of body language. Maureen shares her personal journey and invaluable tips on adapting teaching skills to a business environment, enhancing self-awareness, and confidently presenting oneself in various profes...

In episode 34 of the Growth in Educational Leadership podcast, I share insights from a recent trip to Budapest and discuss the seven common mistakes that teachers make when transitioning into leadership roles. Key points include the importance of emotional intelligence, amplifying strengths, creating a personal leadership vision, and stepping up to lead without waiting for permission. 🚀 Don't miss next week's episode - where I will be speaking to Presentation Skills coach Maureen Mc Cow...

In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I introduce my new title! I am The Breakthrough Teacher Leader Mentor! 🚀 In this value-laden episode, I discuss the numerous mindset challenges teachers face when stepping into leadership roles. These challenges include imposter syndrome, fear of visibility, overworking, a fixed identity as just a teacher, fear of change, the need for approval, pursuit of perfection, and fear of letting go. NEW FREEBIE - EMAIL CHALLENGE Jo...

Introducing Helena Jacob, a business and accounting teacher known for her insightful social media presence. Helena discusses how she started sharing educational resources on Twitter and Instagram, getting inspiration from other educators, and eventually launching her own book 'Lead and Succeed' to align with new leaving certificate business studies specifications. We explore the process of writing her book, her use of digital tools in teaching, and Helena's passion for innovative educat...

Inspired by a comment on The Gratitude Attitude Podcast, I'm reflecting on why it takes time to develop professional relationships. I discuss how relationships, unlike gathering people for your network requires time and consistency to develop. Emotional safety, patience, and build trust through small, consistent actions. Practical strategies for leaders, such as active listening, acknowledging past experiences, and celebrating small wins, are shared to help school leaders create a...

In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership podcast, I welcome guest Linda Hannon, an experienced chemistry teacher. Linda shares her career journey, starting with her chemistry degree from UCD and her initial steps into teaching in Ireland. She describes her transformative experience teaching at an international boarding school in Switzerland, covering both American and British syllabi, and the challenges she faced upon returning to Ireland. Linda discusses the import...

In this week's episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I delve into strategies for standing out from other job candidates. The episode emphasises the importance of teachers sharing their voices through the podcast to support and learn from each other. Key topics discussed include articulating your 'why,' demonstrating strategic thinking, showcasing emotional intelligence, telling impactful stories, communicating confidence and presence, understanding the reality of the ...

In this special guest episode, I chat with Sarah Quirke, also known as Literacy Lady on Instagram. Sarah, who recently completed her master's in literacy education, shares her journey, including her plans to conduct webinars on literacy topics such as World Book Day and Reflective Reading. We discuss the challenges and strategies for promoting reading for pleasure in the digital age, tips for creating engaging presentations, and the importance of continuous professional development for ...

This episode delves into common concerns about storytelling during interviews and the top thing teachers worry about when it comes to interviews - if the story fits into domain A or B. I emphasise the importance of having a flexible mindset and using effective verbs to showcase competencies. I also highlight using the STAR technique and Venn diagrams to illustrate multifaceted skills. Worry no more! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Update01:14 Balancing Professional ...

In episode 26 of the Growth in Leadership Podcast, the main focus of the episode is a deep dive into the power of the question 'What did you make that mean?' This question helps to uncover personal interpretations, reveal limiting beliefs, encourage emotional awareness, create space for reframing, and break the cycle of automatic thinking. I share my own story of job hunting (putting in great effort - to no avail and what I made that mean at the time) and some of the stories from ...

This episode of The Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast is a real gift for you and it's ideal for your reflective practice as you apply for leadership roles! Yes, I'm talking about job applications! 🎉 In this episode, I emphasise the importance of maintaining a relaxed attitude, attention to detail, and creating applications that stand out. It also highlights the significance of timely submissions and the benefits of personalised feedback A LITTLE ABOUT MY SERVICES The Confident Car...

In episode 24 of the Growth in Education Leadership Podcast, I welcome Mark O'Dea, an engineering teacher from County Clare, to discuss his teaching career and leadership roles. Mark, who has been teaching since 2007, shares his journey from student to teacher in the same school and highlights the importance of building relationships with students both in and out of the classroom. He discusses his roles as an AP1 holder, year head, and his involvement in digital learning. Mark ref...

In episode 23 of the Growth and Educational Leadership podcast, I welcome Simon Lewis, principal of Carlow Educate Together and a seasoned blogger, to share his perspective on educational leadership. Simon discusses his journey from a computer scientist to an unplanned career in teaching, ultimately becoming a principal. He reflects on his experiences, including launching Ireland’s first education blog, founding a multi-denominational school, and the inception of his popular podcast 'If I Wer...

In the first episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership podcast for 2025, I delve into detailed strategies for securing senior and middle leadership roles in education. You need to BACK YOURSELF and take control of what's within your control in your job search. I share insights from my personal experiences, offer practical tips such as practicing positive self-talk, staying determined, engaging in personal development, and focusing on impact rather than experience. Additionally...

In this episode, I delve into Developing Leadership Capacity and what it looks like in schools in a practical sense. With the help of LAOS 2022, I highlight the human experiences of things like self-doubt in team teaching and finding your voice. In a coaching style, I ask thought-provoking questions designed to help teachers dig deeper and reflect on key topics. FREE HYPNOSIS MEDITATION I've helped lots of teachers simplify their thoughts in mock interview sessions. Now, this tool he...

Today I'm addressing the common concerns that educators have about the 'Managing the Organisation' Domain. I encounter lots of teachers who feel that they don't have experience in that area - my aim is to help teachers see that Managing The Organisation is more than staffingmanaging budgetsleading SSE etc. We talk about simple teacher-centred approaches for strategies for creating a positive school culture, managing resources, handling complex situations, and promoting profes...