The Art of Teaching

John Cleary: Beyond Voice: Students as Transformative Partners in Education

Up next is a conversation that I recently had with John Cleary. John has recently stepped away from leading School and System Improvement at the Northern Territory Department of Education. Before this, he was the Principal of a primary school in Katherine. He also created the NT Learning Commission, which promotes student-led research and uses the Impact Evaluation Cycle. In 2018, John was named one of 12 National Schools Plus Teaching Fellows and has received national recognition for his work as a principal. He is currently working towards a doctorate at the University of Melbourne.

This conversation took place during a beautiful wet season storm in Larrakia Country, so very occasionally John’s connection drops out, but he comes right back. 

Here is a resource that is referenced in our conversation: 

https://www.cse.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CSE-Leading-Education-Series24-June2024-secure.pdf

Steven Trotter: The Art of Skimming Stones and how to drive meaningful change.

Steven Trotter, an experienced education leader, has spent over a decade as a principal, system leader, and senior leader. His book, The Art of Skimming Stones, introduces the SKIM Model—a practical approach to sustained school improvement. Unlike traditional leadership frameworks, SKIM focuses on intentional, subtle shifts that drive meaningful change. With a passion for professional learning, He equips educators and leaders with actionable strategies for lasting impact.

 

Alison Bonhomme: The power of flourishing workplaces.

Welcome to today's episode! I’m excited to have Alison Bonhomme with me. Alison is an inspiring leader with a Master's in Applied Positive Psychology, known for her dedication to community, personal growth, and making a positive impact. Alison is also the director of The Flourishing Workplace - I have placed a link to her website below. 

In this conversation, we'll explore her journey, her work and how her background in positive psychology influences her approach to leadership and well-being. I hope that you enjoy this insightful conversation with Alison Bonhomme.

Aziza Green: The realities of being married to a teacher, managing stress and parenting school aged kids.

Today, I’m especially excited to welcome our guest, Aziza Green—who also happens to be my wife. Aziza is a writer and digital marketing professional in publishing and the social impact sector. She’s also a PhD research candidate studying digital literacy, bringing a unique perspective on how communities navigate the digital world. She covers the ever-evolving relationship between technology and society. We unpacked many things including what it’s like to live with a teacher, how to support each other during stressful times and life as two working parents.

Scott O'Harra: Thinking differently, doing differently and building a strong school culture.

Today I’m joined by Scott O'Hara, a foundational principal with a unique background. Before entering education, Scott worked as a chef in Australia and the UK.

As a foundational principal, Scott is passionate about creating positive school cultures where students and staff are excited to attend school daily. He focuses on innovative, student-centred learning that engages and inspires.

Outside of work, Scott is a father, and grandfather, and enjoys photography, drones, and motorsport.

Dr William DeJean: How Schools Can Advance Teaching and Learning in the Era of Overwhelm.

Up next is a conversation with Dr William DeJean the founder of Unleash Learning™, a global organisation dedicated to helping educators and leaders ensure learning sticks. With over 25 years of experience, he has worked with thousands of teachers, schools, and organisations to embed lasting learning practices.

A former high school teacher in San Diego, Dr DeJean was recognised as Teacher of the Year among 26,000 educators. He holds a master’s and doctorate in education and has lectured at universities in the U.S. and Australia. His work combines research-driven strategies with real-world applications to create transformational learning experiences.

He travels internationally, supporting schools and organisations to implement the Unleash Learning™ system, ensuring that all learners' learning is engaging, inclusive, and retained.

Matthew Dodd: Leadership lessons, the transformative power of nature and his advice to new teachers.

Today, I am delighted to share another episode with you. Here is a recent conversation with the brilliant Mathew Dodd, Principal at Southern Cross Grammar. He is a passionate school leader dedicated to learning, leadership, and school transformation. With extensive experience in coaching, culture-building, strategy, and curriculum development, Mathew shares insights on the challenges and innovations shaping education today.

Prepare for an inspiring discussion with practical strategies and expert perspectives to help educators and leaders thrive.

Bernii Godwin: Misconceptions about behaviour, inner work and taking collective responsibility for school culture.

Today, we’re joined by Bernii Godwin, a dedicated educator and behaviour specialist with over two decades of experience in transforming school and family cultures. With a master’s in Social Work, a Graduate Certificate in Neuropsychotherapy, and a background in criminology and youth justice, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her work. Bernii helps schools, children, and families create internally responsible behaviour cultures that foster healthy boundaries, respect, and love. Her expertise has led to powerful cultural shifts, moving communities away from fear and control toward trust, honour, and joyful responsibility. As a Loving on Purpose Trainer, a John Maxwell Team Member, and a Maxwell Method DISC Consultant, Bernii empowers educators and families with tools to cultivate lasting change. In this episode, she shares insights on behaviour, leadership, and the transformative power of connection. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that will inspire positive change in education and beyond!

Connect:

🎙 https://shorturl.at/6iVsq

💡https://www.theartofteaching.org

🙋‍♂️ https://www.mathewgreen.com/about/

✏️https://www.mathewgreen.com/thoughts

Professor Jo Boaler: Math-ish: a groundbreaking guide to finding joy, understanding and diversity in mathematics.

Welcome to today’s episode! Math (or maths!) is more than just numbers—it’s a part of everyday life, but how we connect with it is different for everyone. For some, it builds confidence, while for others, it can bring anxiety. Professor. Jo Boaler, a Stanford researcher and expert in math education, has a fresh perspective. In her book Math-Ish, she introduces the concept of math as a dynamic, real-world process, embracing diverse learning styles and approaches. Her research shows that when we celebrate these differences, we unlock our true potential in math. Please stick with us as we dive into this revolutionary view of learning!

Here is my first conversation with her:

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/professor-jo-boaler-developing-mindsets-embracing-failure/id1552506400?i=1000630363973

Connect:

🎙 https://shorturl.at/6iVsq

💡https://www.theartofteaching.org

🙋‍♂️ https://www.mathewgreen.com/about/

✏️ https://www.mathewgreen.com/thoughts

 

Dr Simon Breakspear: The Pruning Principle

Dr Simon Breakspear is a researcher, advisor, and speaker specialising in educational leadership and change, creating practical tools and frameworks to support over 100,000 educators worldwide. The Pruning Principle helps schools focus on what truly matters by cutting out non-essential tasks and initiatives, leading to better outcomes with fewer resources. This guide offers a clear approach to streamline processes, prioritise sustainable work rhythms, and make smarter decisions, all while promoting staff wellbeing and aiming for achievable, impactful improvements.

Connect:

🎙 https://shorturl.at/6iVsq

💡https://www.theartofteaching.org

🙋‍♂️ https://www.mathewgreen.com/about/

✏️ https://www.mathewgreen.com/ideas/