The School of Wellbeing with Meg Durham
Education & Explainer
About
This podcast is for teachers and school leaders who are ready to move beyond survival and thrive by design. Join wellbeing speaker and teacher wellbeing specialist Meg Durham for real and heartfelt conversations with experienced educators and wellbeing thought leaders. Discover practical ways to navigate the relentless demands of school life and move forward with more courage, compassion and confidence.
Episodes
- Susan McLean: Staff Online Safety & How To Better Protect Teachers and School Leaders | Episode 164
Susan McLean discusses the increasing online risks faced by teachers and school leaders. The conversation covers how these risks impact wellbeing and safety, detailing strategies for individuals, schools, and systems to better protect staf…
- Maria Ruberto: Sleep Matters & Why Big-Hearted Educators Struggle To Switch Off | Episode 163
In this episode, Meg Durham speaks with Maria Ruberto about the neuroscience of sleep and why many educators struggle to switch off. They discuss hyperarousal, the emotional labor of teaching, and how sleep is a biological process essentia…
- Sue Langley: Burnout Iceberg & The Invisible Forces Driving Staff Burnout in Schools | Episode 162
Meg Durham and Sue Langley discuss teacher burnout in schools, examining it through a systems lens. They explore how patterns, structures, and beliefs contribute to burnout, emphasizing that it goes beyond individual time management or res…
- Greer Kharidi: Reflective Practice & The Importance of Professional Supervision In Schools | Episode 161
Meg Durham and Greer Kharidi discuss professional supervision in schools, highlighting its importance for educators. They explore how it helps manage the emotional load, process complex decisions, and create a safe space for reflection, co…
- Bianca McLeish: Self-Preservation & How To Honour Our Limits At Work | Episode 160
In this episode, Bianca McLeish discusses self-preservation and respecting limits in the workplace. She explores the difference between self-care and self-preservation, the importance of understanding the nervous system, and practical stra…
- Meg Durham with David Bott: The Year That Was & The Mantra That Keeps Meg Going | Episode 159
In this episode, Meg Durham and David Bott reflect on the past year, discussing personal experiences and lessons learned regarding wellbeing. They explore topics such as default patterns, people-pleasing, and the value of deliberate action…
- Kel Innis: Clear Conversations & Moving From Avoiding To Approaching | Episode 158
In this episode, Kel Innis and Meg Durham discuss having difficult conversations in schools. They explore emotional intelligence, preparing for important discussions, and creating a culture of clear and compassionate communication. Kel als…
- Adam Voigt: School Culture & The Daily Interactions That Matter | Episode 157
In this episode, Meg Durham chats with Adam Voigt about school culture and how it is created through daily interactions, expectations, and relationships. They discuss strengthening connection, trust, and wellbeing in the school community.
- Georgia Park: Cognitive Load & The Impact On Staff Wellbeing | Episode 156
In this episode, Georgia Park and Meg Durham discuss Cognitive Load Theory, its implications for teaching and learning, and its impact on staff wellbeing. They explore how understanding cognitive load can transform instructional practices,…
- Mark Worthington: Non-Work Identity & Life Beyond The School Gates | Episode 155
Mark Worthington joins Meg Durham to discuss the importance of developing a non-work identity for long-term wellbeing. They explore parallels between education and elite sport, highlighting the role of self-compassion and balance in sustai…
- Andrew Fuller: Neuroadvantage & The Strengths-Based Approach To Neurodivergence | Episode 154
Andrew Fuller joins Meg Durham to discuss reframing neurodivergence through a strengths-based lens. They explore practical ways to support students by focusing on their unique strengths, incorporating strategies like the Attach Approach, a…
- Tracey Ezard: What We Bring & The Tone We Set | Episode 153
Tracey Ezard discusses with Meg Durham how individual presence and emotional tone impact school culture, team dynamics, and professional relationships. They explore authentic leadership, self-awareness, and the importance of the tone set i…
- Dr Tom Brunzell: The Next Chapter & How Trauma-Informed Practice Is Transforming Education | Episode 152
Dr. Tom Brunzell, Director of Education at Berry Street, joins Meg Durham on The School of Wellbeing to discuss how trauma-informed practice is transforming education. They explore the evolution of the field, the importance of intersection…
- Amy Green: Rethinking Workload & Role Clarity In Education | Episode 151
Host Meg Durham interviews author Amy Green about managing workload, role clarity, and professional wellbeing in the education sector. They discuss practical strategies for creating sustainable school environments that support teachers and…
- Prof Lindsay Oades, PhD: Wellbeing Literacy & Why Language Matters | Episode 150
Professor Lindsay G. Oades joins host Meg Durham to discuss the importance of wellbeing literacy and language in schools. They explore the differences between mental health and wellbeing, the emotional labor of educators, and strategies fo…
- Lael Stone: Own Your Strory & Create Your Future | Epiosde 149
In this episode, author and educator Lael Stone discusses her book, "Own Your Story: Understanding Your Past to Create Your Future." She explores how childhood imprints shape current behaviors and provides guidance on addressing triggers,…
- Dr Helen Kelly: Switching Off & The Hidden Cost of Always Being On | Episode 148
In this episode, Dr. Helen Kelly joins host Meg Durham to discuss the challenges educators face when trying to switch off after the school day. They explore the cultural pressures, habits, and systemic responsibilities that contribute to b…
- Mathew Disher: Learning Well & Embracing Challenge| Epsiode 147
In this episode, Meg Durham speaks with Mathew Disher, Director of Learning and Wellbeing at Concordia College, about the intersection of learning and wellbeing. They discuss the Equilibrium Model of Wellbeing, social resourcing, and the r…
- Kristen Douglas: Navigating Tragedy & A Guide For School Staff Facing The Unexpected | Epsiode 146
In this episode, Meg Durham speaks with Kristen Douglas from Headspace Schools and Communities about navigating crises within school environments. They discuss practical approaches for educators to manage tragedy using compassion and look…
- David Bott: Making Mistakes & Learning Lessons | Epiosde 145
Meg Durham and David Bott, Co-Founder of The Wellbeing Distillery, discuss the value of learning from mistakes in education. They explore themes of professional vulnerability, student voice, and how reflection leads to growth in school lea…
- Michelle Mitchell: Better Conversations & Making Everyday Moments Matter | Ep 144
In this episode, educator Michelle Mitchell joins host Meg Durham to discuss the significance of everyday communication and small moments in schools. They explore strategies for building connection, trust, and resilience through meaningful…
- Dr Sue Roffey: Aspire Together & From Framework to Everyday Action | Episode 143
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, Meg Durham interviews psychologist and educator Dr. Sue Roffey about the link between teacher and student wellbeing. They discuss the ASPIRE framework and how investing in staff wellbeing promote…
- Lisa Maltman: Sleep Better & The Real Reason You’re Always Tired | Episode 142
Sleep expert Lisa Maltman joins The School of Wellbeing to discuss the vital role of sleep in brain health, mood, and daily performance. The episode covers the impact of modern habits on rest and provides strategies for building sustainabl…
- Dr Shyam Barr: Self-Regulated Learning & Metacognition | Episode 141
Meg Durham hosts educator and researcher Dr. Shyam Barr to discuss self-regulated learning, metacognition, and their connection to student wellbeing. The pair explore practical classroom strategies to help students develop the skills neede…
- Dr Zac Seidler: Boys' Mental Health & Masculinity Myths | Episode 140
In this episode, Meg Durham speaks with Dr. Zac Seidler about boys' mental health and the myths surrounding masculinity. They discuss the impact of suppressed emotions and peer pressure on boys, emphasizing the importance of listening and…
- Dr Michelle Woolhouse: Ageing Well & The Big-Hearted Educator's Guide To Personal Evolution | Episode 139
Host Meg Durham speaks with holistic medical doctor Dr. Michelle Woolhouse about the factors that influence health and ageing. They discuss how stress, sleep, nutrition, and hormones contribute to long-term vitality, as well as the importa…
- Chris Daicos: Team Effectiveness & Essential Skills For Thriving School Teams | Episode 138
Meg Durham discusses team effectiveness in schools with Chris Daicos. They explore the importance of the team-forming stage, setting expectations, managing conflict, and building psychological safety.
- Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Meg Durham | Bonus Episode
In this bonus episode, Meg Durham discusses strategies for school leaders to support educator wellbeing as they approach the new academic year. The conversation covers managing school challenges, intentional wellbeing practices, and the im…
- Guiding The Next Generation with Maggie Dent and Lael Stone | Best of 2024
Host Meg Durham explores themes of emotional development and self-growth in this special episode featuring experts Maggie Dent and Lael Stone. The discussion emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness, connection, and compassion for…
- Making Staff Wellbeing A Priority with Kylie Power, Monique Carter and Anna Partridge | Best of 2024
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, host Meg Durham revisits discussions with school leaders Kylie Power, Monique Carter, and Anna Partridge regarding the importance of staff wellbeing. The conversation explores how teacher wellnes…
- Are You Doing Too Much? With Terri Cole, Adrienne Hornby and Melinda Phillips | Best of 2024
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, host Meg Durham revisits insights from 2024 guests Terri Cole, Adrienne Hornby, and Melinda Phillips. The discussion focuses on managing high-functioning codependency, setting healthy boundaries,…
- Set Yourself Up For Success With Lisa O'Neil, Sarah Rusbatch and Dr Adam Faser | Best of 2024
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, host Meg Durham explores key insights from 2024 guests. The session covers energy management with Lisa O'Neill, strategies to manage alcohol consumption with Sarah Rusbatch, and the concept of th…
- Dr Michelle McQuaid: Good Girl Evoultoin & Becoming Uniquely You | Episode 137
In this episode, Dr. Michelle McQuaid discusses dismantling societal expectations and 'good girl' beliefs to cultivate self-trust and authenticity. She shares research-based perspectives on healing past wounds, authentic workplace dialogue…
- Dr Wanying Zhou with Leoni Boyle: Teacher Wellbeing Framework & Key Considerations To Enhance Teacher Wellbeing | Episode 136
In this episode, Dr. Wanying Zhou and Leoni Boyle from the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre discuss their literature review on teacher wellbeing, produced for the International Baccalaureate. They explore the significance o…
- Anna Partridge: Thinking Clearly & Moving From Reacting To Responding | Episode 135
Anna Partridge, Head of Wellbeing, explores the importance of mental clarity, emotional intelligence, and identifying needs like sleep and relationships to manage pressure in educational settings. She discusses how these practices help edu…
- Aimee Presnall: Middle Leadership & The Power Of Authentic Leaders | Episode 134
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, leadership and wellbeing coach Aimee Presnall discusses the challenges and requirements for middle leaders to thrive. Topics include the role of authentic leadership, communication, and creating…
- Terri Cole: High-Functioning Codependency & People Pleasing | Episode 133
Psychotherapist Terri Cole joins The School of Wellbeing to discuss high-functioning codependency and people-pleasing. The episode explores identifying over-functioning patterns, setting healthy boundaries, managing resentment, and priorit…
- Dr Rebecca Collie Combined Effort & The Power of Switching Off | Episode 132
In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Collie discusses the role of teacher wellbeing in creating successful learning environments. She explores the importance of school staff and leadership collaboration, as well as practical strategies for support…
- Monique Carter: Thriving Together & Building Resilient School Communities | Episode 131
In this episode of The School of Wellbeing, host Meg Durham speaks with principal Monique Carter about fostering resilience and wellbeing in school communities. They discuss strategies for valuing staff, balancing energy, and building supp…
- Jenny Cole: Backing Yourself & Taking Risks | Episode 130
Leadership coach Jenny Cole discusses strategies for building confidence and taking action in education. The episode covers overcoming perfectionism, leveraging strengths, and embracing failure as a growth opportunity.
- Dr Paul Kidson: Collective Action & Focusing On What We Can do | Episode 129
Meg Durham interviews educational leadership scholar Dr. Paul Kidson about maintaining educator well-being within a demanding school system. They discuss strategies for personal growth and navigating professional challenges in an environme…
- Lisa O'Neill: Energy Masterclass & How To Get It, Guard It, Give It | Episode 128
In episode 128 of The School of Wellbeing, guest Lisa O'Neill discusses strategies for managing personal energy. She explores the four types of energy—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—and provides guidance on how to nurture them.
- Dr Helen Street: A Meaningful Life & The Impossible Question of Living Well | Episode 127
Dr. Helen Street discusses her book, The Impossible Question of Living Well, and explores the process of identifying personal identity, navigating human emotions, and finding meaning in life.
- Dr Paul Teys | Self-Leadership & The Power of Walking | Episode 126
Dr. Paul Teys, an experienced school leader, discusses the role of self-leadership in professional success and managing the demands of school life. The episode explores strategies for mental clarity, including the benefits of walking, and…
- Adrienne Hornby: Functional Freeze & Why You Feel Wired And Tired | Episode 125
Meg Durham and wellness consultant Adrienne Hornby discuss functional freeze, exploring its impact on emotional and physical wellbeing. They share strategies for cultivating self-awareness, setting boundaries, and improving connections to…
- Kylie Power: Staff Wellbeing & Why The Little Things Matter | Episode 124
In this episode, school leader Kylie Power discusses strategies for fostering a positive school environment, stressing the impact of small acts of kindness and the importance of leadership in maintaining staff wellbeing.
- Maggie Dent: Raising Boys & Healthy, Happy And Resilient Men | Episode 123
Maggie Dent joins Meg Durham to discuss strategies for supporting boys' development, addressing challenges like impulsivity and societal pressure. The conversation covers the importance of emotional expression, supportive environments, and…
- Professor Jayashri Kulkarni: Women's Mental Health & Understanding The Impact of Hormonal Fluctuation | Episode 122
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni discusses the impact of hormonal fluctuations on women’s mental health, covering topics from PMS and PMDD to menopause. This episode explores the relationship between hormones, depression, and anxiety.
- Dr Steven Rogelberg: Meetings Matter & The Surprising Art + Science of Meeting Well | Episode 121
Organisational psychologist Professor Steven Rogelberg discusses how to improve the quality of meetings in professional settings. He shares insights on making meetings more productive, enjoyable, and beneficial for staff and student wellbe…
- Joel Hines: Human Potential & How To Cultivate Connection With The THRIVE Framework | Episode 120
Host Meg Durham speaks with Joel Hines about human potential and the THRIVE framework. They discuss cultivating connection, self-trust, recognizing personal achievements, and the importance of processing thoughts and feelings.