Best Inspiring positive change in schools and communities Podcasts (2025)

1
Where Are the Men? The Quiet Revolution of Masculine Healing with Hugh Newton 1:05:59

3d ago1:05:59

1:05:59

Hugh shares his personal journey from emotional numbness to wholeness, revealing how patriarchal conditioning restricts men's emotional capacity while perpetuating cycles of trauma. We discover the quiet revolution of men choosing love over competition, the importance of men's groups in creating profound brotherhood, and why foundational healing wo…

1
Three Big Choices That Changed My Life - What Are Yours? 32:26

17d ago32:26

32:26

In this episode, we explore what it really means to live authentically in a world full of expectations. I'll take you behind the scenes of my unconventional choices: why I converted a van and how it became my sanctuary during challenging times, why I've invested in coaches and mentors for over 14 years straight, and how I've never worked a full-tim…

1
Connection Over Chaos - A Parent's Guide to Surviving Summer at Home 30:50

1M ago30:50

30:50

In this honest episode, I take you inside our family's summer experiment and share the practical wisdom I've learned about staying connected to yourself and your children when everything feels unstructured and intense. Key Themes and Topics: We explore why self-care isn't selfish but essential for summer survival, how to create anchoring practices …

1
All Eyes on Gaza - Real Lives, Real People 29:55

1M ago29:55

29:55

In this deeply moving episode, I share a story about my recent video call with Noorhan, a 25-year-old mother in Gaza, and explore how personal healing work and collective action are inseparably connected. We'll journey through the cost of speaking truth in today's world, the magic that happens when we gather in solidarity circles, and why your sens…

1
Bearing Witness to Whats Happening in Palestine Without Shutting Down: Sacred Practices for Processing Collective Grief 50:20

2M ago50:20

50:20

https://www.leonajohnson.life/blogpodcast/staying-awake-without-shutting-down This isn't your typical Connection Matters episode, but it might be one of the most important conversations we'll have. I'm sharing how to navigate the collective trauma of witnessing genocide in real-time while staying connected to your own healing and capacity for meani…

1
Stripped Back, Tuned In: Simplicity, Spirituality & Self-Leadership with Vicky Mateu 1:06:35

2M ago1:06:35

1:06:35

https://pages.leonajohnson.life/beyond-self-helpWhat does it look like to live in deep alignment, with nature, with purpose, and with your own inner compass? In this rich and nourishing conversation, Leona sits down with long-time friend, teacher, and collaborator Vicky Mateu, whose life’s work bridges spiritual ecology, parenting, nature connectio…

1
The Ripple Effect: How Your Inner Work Transforms Everything (And Everyone) Around You 31:08

2M ago31:08

31:08

Join me for an intimate exploration of how personal transformation creates ripples that touch every relationship, community, and space you enter. You'll discover practical tools for emotional awareness, authentic connection, and joyful learning that transform reactive patterns into connected self-leadership. In this heart-centered episode, we dive …

1
How Nature Questing Awakens Your Inner Compass and Everyday Spirituality 40:14

2M ago40:14

40:14

In this inspiring episode, you'll learn how to design your own nature quest ceremony - whether you have four hours or four days - and discover how this ancient practice becomes a gateway to connected self-leadership and integrated living. Join me as I share intimate stories from my own questing journey, including my transformative 40th birthday sol…

1
Finding Your True North: Balancing Vision, Presence & Purpose in a Noisy World 30:04

3M ago30:04

30:04

So many of us feel caught between two extremes—trying to enjoy the present moment while also feeling pressure to figure out the future. In this heartfelt and practical episode, I dive into the deeper reasons traditional goal-setting often leaves us feeling stuck or unfulfilled, and why cultivating a “Life Compass” rooted in your values and purpose …

1
From Childhood Trauma to Empowering Others: Chelsea Miller's Story 1:00:20

3M ago1:00:20

1:00:20

Send us a text Support the showBy Jason A. Dixon

1
Rooted in Healing: How One Woman’s Herbal Journey Inspires Authentic Living - With Jane Christie 1:20:43

3M ago1:20:43

1:20:43

What You’ll Discover Join Leona and herbalist Jane as they explore the inspiring journey from speech therapy to a soul-led life of plant medicine, self-trust, and deep nature connection. Discover how everyday herbs, intuitive practices, and simple living can support personal growth and healing. Key Themes and Topics Jane’s transition from speech th…

1
Beauty in Breakdown: 4 Resilience Practices for When Life Falls Apart 31:32

3M ago31:32

31:32

In this heartfelt episode, I share my personal journey through breakdown and the four essential practices that became my lifelines, helping you build your own resilience toolkit for life's inevitable challenges. Key Themes and Topics Join me as I explore the counterintuitive wisdom that our most painful breakdowns often contain hidden gifts, if we …

1
When Nobody Gets Your Connection Path: Finding Your Spiritual Tribe in a Disconnected World 33:43

3M ago33:43

33:43

In this soul-nourishing episode, I share personal stories and practical wisdom for anyone feeling alone in their passion for connection, nature, and spirituality. You'll discover four powerful approaches to honor your path while navigating relationships with loved ones who may not understand your practices or interests. Key Themes and Topics Explor…

1
Creating Sacred Space at Home: It’s a Way of Being 27:27

4M ago27:27

27:27

We explore the four essential elements of sacred space - intention, connection, presence, and evolution - and I guide you through practical, heart-led ways to declutter, create meaningful rituals, and invite beauty into your home, no matter the size or stage of life you’re in. Whether you're a soulful entrepreneur, a busy parent, or someone craving…

1
The Art of Gathering - From Small Talk to Soul Talk 47:45

4M ago47:45

47:45

Join me in exploring how simple intentional shifts can transform ordinary gatherings into powerful spaces of genuine connection and growth. In this warm and engaging episode, we dive deep into the elements that make gatherings meaningful—whether in your home, community, or workplace. You'll learn how to create safety and structure, incorporate beau…

1
Cultural Emergence Explained: Conscious Living & Connected Leadership 27:21

4M ago27:21

27:21

Ever wondered what exactly "Cultural Emergence" means, and how it could make a tangible difference in your daily life? Join me, Leona Johnson, as we dive deeply into this powerful practice, exploring how intentional culture-making influences everything from our personal well-being to collective transformation. You'll learn about the essential role …

1
Cultivating Connected Self-Leadership in a Disconnected World 33:32

5M ago33:32

33:32

This episode explores the transformative practice of connected self-leadership through journeying through the elements of presence and self-awareness as foundations for authentic leadership. Discover how to distinguish between the voice of fear and your inner wisdom, and learn how nature connection can strengthen your self-leadership practice. We e…

1
The Elemental Connection: How Earth, Water, Fire & Air Deepen Your Everyday Spirituality 38:02

6M ago38:02

38:02

Through storytelling, science, and practical wisdom, we’ll uncover: ✨ The unique lessons and energies each element offers ✨ Simple, everyday practices to integrate elemental connection into your life ✨ How tuning into the elements can bring clarity, balance, and renewal ✨ Why nature-based wisdom is essential for heart-centred living By the end of t…

1
Redefining Success: Tony Branch on Mentorship, Emotional Vulnerability, and Inspiring Change 1:07:00

8M ago1:07:00

1:07:00

Send us a text Discover the transformative insights of Tony Branch, a distinguished author and motivational speaker from New York City, who joins us to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of his journey. Tony's narrative explores the shifting landscape of motivational speaking, particularly for young Black men, and the pressing societal expectat…

1
The Secret to Effective Change Leadership in Schools with Anne Sena 46:25

9M ago46:25

46:25

How do you lead change in schools while keeping people at the center? In this episode, we explore how technology, change management, and human connection all come together in modern education. Anne Sena, Director of Technology at St. David's School, shares her unique insights from a career that spans corporate America and independent schools. We di…

1
EdTech Success Through Inclusive Change with Alex Inman 53:17

9M ago53:17

53:17

In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we’re thrilled to welcome Alex Inman, a leader in EdTech and change management, to explore the transformative journey of educational technology—from the first one-to-one programs to the latest AI innovations in schools. Join us as we dive deep into the lessons that past tech shifts can teach us about i…

1
How nature connection can help us find focus and flow 14:54

10M ago14:54

14:54

By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with fresh strategies to bring ease and clarity into even the busiest days. Plus, don't miss the Flow with Nature: Daily Guide to Expanding Time and Focus . It's a FREE Nature-Based Time Management Guide to help you start a nature-connection practice that can reshape your days. Check out the full write-u…

1
A Masterclass on Service Learning with Raj Mundra 40:15

10M ago40:15

40:15

How do we raise young leaders who see the world as their classroom and service as their responsibility? In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we sit down with Raj Mundra, an expert in education and civic engagement with over three decades of experience in shaping independent school students into compassionate, community-focused leaders. Ra…

1
Any Human Power with Manda Scott 1:22:18

10M ago1:22:18

1:22:18

To dive deeper into these themes and explore detailed podcast notes inclduing more about Manda's new novel Any Human Power, check out my latest blog post here. More about Manda Scott Manda Scott is an award-winning novelist and host of the acclaimed Accidental Gods podcast. Best known for the Boudica: Dreaming series, her previous novels have been …

1
Healing Ancestral Family Patterns for Personal Growth 16:01

10M ago16:01

16:01

In this episode you’ll learn practical tools like journaling prompts, nature-based practices, and rituals for release—all designed to help you navigate and transform inherited patterns with compassion and intention. We also explore ways to tap into the strengths and wisdom of your lineage, turning ancestral connection into a source of healing. Tune…

1
Understanding and embracing neurodiversity with Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant [FBF] 20:00

11M ago20:00

20:00

How might the unique minds of Nikola Tesla, Andy Warhol, and Albert Einstein reveal the untapped potential in neurodiversity? Join autism experts Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant in a groundbreaking discussion that dives deep into the heart of neurodiversity. This conversation not only challenges conventional deficit models but al…

1
Re-wilding Our Nervous System For Connection with Jon Young 1:17:08

11M ago1:17:08

1:17:08

To read more about the episode read the full blog post here. Jon Young’s personal journey into nature connection and cultural mentoring The influence of Indigenous communities like the Bushmen of the Kalahari The impact and legacy of Jon’s mentor, Tom Brown Jr., and his teachings on peace, love, joy, and purpose. The role of sensory integration and…

1
What is memory in the context of teaching and learning? With Ross McGill [FBF] 15:40

11M ago15:40

15:40

Dive into the fascinating world of memory and cognitive science with Ross McGill, also known as @TeacherToolkit , on this insightful episode of the SLP podcast. Sparked by his experience as a blogger facing critiques for evidence-based claims, Ross embarked on a deep dive into cognitive science, a journey that led him to explore the intricacies of …

1
Why is strategic planning important? Lessons from Diane Tavenner [FBF] 17:43

11M ago17:43

17:43

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Diane Tavenner, an acclaimed leader in education, as we dive into the world of innovative school design and strategic planning in education. In this video, Diane shares her insights on creating schools that are responsive to the needs of current students, communities, and the evolving world. Discover t…

1
How to Build Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Your School with Dr. Shyamm Barr 49:34

11M ago49:34

49:34

In this episode, we dive into the world of self-regulated learning with Dr. Shyam Barr, a thought leader in Australia specializing in student-centered learning and metacognition. Self-regulated learning is all about equipping students with the skills and capacity to understand how they learn best, when they learn best, and how to curate an environm…

1
How to navigate national educational standards in the UAE? [FBF] 22:08

11M ago22:08

22:08

Dive into a thought-provoking episode with David Gerber, a pioneering educator in the UAE, as we explore how progressive schools can thrive within the constraints of national requirements. Recorded against the backdrop of the innovative Fairgreen school located in the Sustainable City of Dubai, this conversation uncovers the strategies and mindset …

1
What makes a school sustainable? Lessons from Green School Bali [FBF] 14:47

11M ago14:47

14:47

Dive into an inspiring episode of the School Leaders Project podcast featuring Sal Gordon, the visionary head of teaching and learning at Green School Bali. Set in the lush jungles of Indonesia, this episode explores the groundbreaking educational approach that sets Green School apart as a beacon of the global education revolution. Sal shares his j…

1
How to Lead an Independent School with Peter Baron 34:44

11M ago34:44

34:44

Join us as we dive deep into the world of independent school leadership with Peter Baron, an expert in the field with years of experience and innovative solutions. We explore several crucial themes: 1. The Evolution of Independent Schools: Discover how independent schools have adapted over the years and the pressing need for innovation in their bus…

1
Back to School - How Our City Supports Students 14:25

12M ago14:25

14:25

As students head back to the classroom, co-hosts Dr. Robert Franklin and Former Mayor Lee take a closer look at the partnership between the City of San Mateo and the school districts to ensure students have what they need to succeed. From the Learning Education Assistance Program (LEAP) that provided essential resources during COVID-19, to safety i…

1
What is visible thinking? | Insights from Dr. Ron Ritchhart [FBF] 38:55

12M ago38:55

38:55

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ron Ritchhart, a renowned researcher from Harvard and a pioneer in transforming schools into cultures of thinking. In this episode, Dr. Ritchhart shares his insights on how we can develop our students into powerful learners and thinkers by fostering a culture where thinking is made visible. Discover…

1
Pausing, Reflecting, Hoping 30:55

12M ago30:55

30:55

As series 1 of Imagining Tomorrow draws to a close, presenter Emma Newman reflects on the battle against despair and what the podcast has revealed about the entrepreneurs, scientists, innovators and communities she's interviewed. Emma explores the key lessons they've imparted, and whether they're enough to tackle the climate. Resources: Research on…

1
The role schools play in safeguarding students online 48:41

12M ago48:41

48:41

Our children and young people are growing up in an increasingly online world. Digital safeguarding is crucial in a school context given that students are spending more and more time on devices. Teachers can no longer rely on just their eyes and ears to detect harm that may be occurring for their students. In today’s episode, Safeguarding Children c…

1
What is Competency-Based Education: Tips and Strategies for Leaders with Rose Colby 1:00:10

12M ago1:00:10

1:00:10

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Rose Colby, a pioneering leader in the field. Over the last 17 years, Rose has guided schools across the nation in shifting from traditional education models to more innovative, personalized approaches that prioritize mastery and deeper learning. We explore the ev…

1
Youth experiences of peer-to-peer harm in online spaces - CSW 2024 1:00:15

12M ago1:00:15

1:00:15

In this episode of Together, guest Dr Emma Barker-Clarke, a specialist in violence prevention education, delves into the nuanced experiences of young people facing online harms, particularly peer-to-peer digital sexual harassment and sextortion. The conversation underscores the importance of centring young people’s voices, providing education that …

1
How to get students to ask better questions? [FBF] 40:44

12M ago40:44

40:44

In this episode, we dive into an insightful conversation with Trevor McKenzie about his latest book, which introduces 10 high-impact question routines designed to help students become more proficient and curious questioners. Trevor shares the inspiration behind his new book and discusses how these routines can transform classrooms by fostering deep…

1
Scams, screens and safety: Netsafe’s mission to keep kids safe online - CSW 2024 30:57

12M ago30:57

30:57

In this episode of Together, Safeguarding Children consultant Jessica McQuoid, and guest Brent Carey, CEO of Netsafe, explore the evolving landscape of online safety for children and young people. They discuss Netsafe's growth and its critical role in protecting New Zealanders from online harm, with a particular focus on scams targeting youth. The …

1
How to Increase Enrollment in Independent Schools with Brendan Schneider 49:09

12M ago49:09

49:09

In this insightful episode, join us as we explore effective marketing techniques for independent schools aiming to increase enrollment. We'll dive into how demographic shifts, COVID-19 impacts, and tuition costs influence prospective families' decisions. Learn about integrating marketing communications, leveraging digital marketing, and the importa…

1
How Future Schools Embrace Humanity and Belonging [FBF] 40:13

1y ago40:13

40:13

Listen in as Louka Parry brings a fresh perspective on building a 'fully human' education ecosystem. In this episode, he explores the crucial role of purpose-driven learning, social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies, and cognitive agility in empowering students. Louka shares how to honor diverse cultural practices while cultivating the essential …

1
Part 2: Unpacking The NZ Abuse in State and Faith-Based Care Final Report 48:05

1y ago48:05

48:05

In this episode of Together, the team at Safeguarding Children discuss the critical role that training plays in preventing child abuse and neglect, particularly in light of the recent findings from the New Zealand Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. They explore the need for sector-specific, ongoing training that is not only tailored to the …

1
What’s next with AI in Education? With Dan Fitzpatrick 53:10

1y ago53:10

53:10

Welcome to an exciting episode of School Leaders Project! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Dan Fitzpatrick, a leading expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation. Dan shares his invaluable insights on several key themes: 1. Always Have an Out: Discover the concept of "always having an out" and how this approach promotes innovative …

1
Storytelling and the Future of Education [FBF] 37:55

1y ago37:55

37:55

In today's fast-paced world driven by AI and rapid change, it can feel challenging to keep up. But what if the answers to education's purpose lie in stories- in the continuity of our past and present? In this episode, we chat with historian and futurist Phil Cummins to uncover how we can build future-focused schools while staying true to our core m…

1
Harvesting, Fertilising, Revolutionising 50:43

1y ago50:43

50:43

Seaweed has long been touted as an important resource in the battle against climate change, thanks to its rapid growth and ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Inspired by conversations with a community garden group in Scotland and the founder of a company producing sustainable materials from seaweed, Emma Newman imagines a world in which new material…

1
Unpacking the NZ Abuse in State and Faith-Based Care Final Report 36:44

1y ago36:44

36:44

In this episode of "Together," the team at Safeguarding Children discuss the findings of the New Zealand Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. The discussion sheds light on the systemic failures that allowed abuse to flourish in state and faith-based care, and calls for urgent legislative reform to extend child safety standards across all orga…

1
City Services Academy: A Model of Transparency 15:06

1y ago15:06

15:06

In this episode of Beyond City Hall, we're thrilled to announce that the City Services Academy is now accepting applications! Join us as we dive into this unique opportunity for residents and workers in San Mateo to gain an insider's perspective on city government. The City Services Academy is not just an educational experience; it's a model of tra…

1
Willow Duffy's Journey in Child Safeguarding 45:09

1y ago45:09

45:09

Welcome back to Season 2 of Together - a podcast dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and the promotion of child-safe organisations. In this introductory episode, Willow Duffy, CEO of Safeguarding Children in New Zealand, outlines the grassroots inception of Safeguarding Children in 2011 and its evolution into a sustainable organization that …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Inspiring Positive Change In Schools And Communities Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide