AlphaBites

Kate Pattison and Lucy Sutton open up one of a kind conversations with game changer guests - experts and people invested in supporting the next generation - Generation Alpha to thrive 💫 From tackling key issues to uncovering fresh perspectives, Alpha Bites serves up inspiring bite-sized insights designed to help young people and their parents and educators to navigate the world feeling empowered and confident.

EP23: Reimagining Education with Leanna Barrett 06/23/2025

EP23: Reimagining Education with Leanna Barrett In this conversation, Leanna Barrett shares her transformative journey in reshaping education through the establishment of Little Forest Folk and Liberty Woodland School. She discusses the importance of wellbeing, emotional intelligence, and innovative learning approaches that prioritise children's needs and interests. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in the education sector, the community's response to her initiatives, and the significance of project-based learning in developing essential skills for the future. In this conversation, Leanna Barrett discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in education, the support for neurodivergent students, and the role of movement in learning. She emphasises the need for a supportive school culture that prioritizes individual needs and prepares students for future challenges. The discussion also covers teacher recruitment, the fulfillment of educators, and a vision for a more inclusive and innovative educational landscape. Takeaways Leanna Barrett's journey is driven by her children's needs. The establishment of Little Forest Folk was a response to inadequate early years education. Winning the UK Social Entrepreneur of the Year award accelerated growth. Wellbeing is the foundation of effective learning environments. Emotional intelligence is prioritized in the school's curriculum. Children are encouraged to play and express themselves freely. Project-based learning engages students and makes learning relevant. The school focuses on developing critical skills for the future. Community support is crucial for educational initiatives. Education should evolve to meet the changing needs of society. Emotional intelligence is crucial for children's development. Conflict resolution is prioritized to support children's emotional needs. Every child should be seen as an individual with unique needs. Movement in learning environments enhances focus and well-being. A supportive school culture fosters happiness and kindness among students. Teaching skills for future careers is essential in education. Encouraging entrepreneurship helps students understand real-world applications. Teachers are drawn to fulfilling roles that align with their values. A four-day workweek improves work-life balance for educators. Advocating for educational reform is necessary for all children to thrive. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Educational Transformation 03:04 The Journey of Little Forest Folk 06:03 Creating a New School Model 09:07 Challenges and Community Response 11:58 Wellbeing as the Foundation of Learning 15:02 Innovative Learning Approaches 17:54 Emotional Intelligence and Co-Regulation 21:00 Project-Based Learning and Skills Development 25:13 Emotional Intelligence in Education 27:59 Supporting Neurodivergent Students 30:02 The Importance of Movement in Learning 32:58 Preparing Students for the Future 36:57 Teacher Recruitment and Fulfillment 40:03 Vision for the Future of Education Visit the website: Follow Little Forrest Folk on Join the conversation: Email us at Follow Us on Instagram: Learn More About Us: Kate: Lucy: Podcast Sponsor: /episode/index/show/a7b93f5e-5029-423c-aae8-110bae0c5227/id/37105070

EP 22: Menopause and motherhood with Dr Barton 06/02/2025

EP 21: Fuelling our kids with Mari Craig 05/12/2025

EP 20: Motherhood, mum life, letting go of perfectionism and uncomfortable truths with Anna Mathur 04/28/2025

EP 20: Motherhood, mum life, letting go of perfectionism and uncomfortable truths with Anna Mathur In this quite amazing episode of Alpha Bites, Anna shares her journey through motherhood, mental health, and life as a psychotherapist. We dive into the realities of parenting, the pressures of perfectionism, and the power of self-compassion. Anna opens up about guilt, shame, and the importance of being a ‘good enough’ parent. She also reflects on themes from her book The Uncomfortable Truth, including grief, mortality, and helping the next generation recognise their worth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Motherhood and Career Journey 03:00 Navigating Mental Health and Social Media 05:56 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Career Choices 08:57 Books and Insights on Motherhood 12:05 The Importance of Self-Compassion in Parenting 14:56 Addressing Guilt and Shame in Motherhood 18:01 The Concept of Being a Good Enough Mother 25:13 Navigating Emotions and Apologies 26:56 The Pressure of Perfection in Parenting 28:37 Creating a Welcoming Home Environment 30:01 The Importance of Connection and Vulnerability 32:11 Lowering Standards and Embracing Imperfection 34:40 The Uncomfortable Truth: Embracing Life's Realities 39:50 Finding Meaning in Grief and Loss 44:40 Living with Awareness of Mortality 49:24 Empowering the Next Generation Takeaways Takeaways Anna's journey into motherhood and mental health began with her own experiences of anxiety. Social media became a platform for Anna to share her personal experiences and connect with other mothers. The importance of self-compassion in parenting is crucial for emotional well-being. Guilt can often lead to shame, and it's important to address it constructively. Anna's ACT technique helps mothers manage guilt without slipping into shame. Being a 'good enough' mother allows children to learn resilience and navigate life's challenges. Personal experiences shape our professional paths, especially in caring professions. Vulnerability in sharing experiences can foster community and support among mothers. The need for compassion towards oneself is essential for effective parenting. Children learn more from our actions than our words, making self-care vital. Apologies are crucial for teaching responsibility. Perfect parenting is unrealistic in an imperfect world. Creating a welcoming home fosters connection. Vulnerability is key to building relationships. Lowering standards can relieve parenting pressure. Grief can lead to personal growth and understanding. Awareness of mortality encourages intentional living. Empowering children involves recognising their worth. Community support is vital for emotional health. Sharing resources enhances fulfillment in life. Find Anna's website Find Anna on Instagram ********************** Join the conversation: Email us at Follow Us on Instagram: Learn More About Us: Kate: Lucy: Podcast Sponsor: /episode/index/show/a7b93f5e-5029-423c-aae8-110bae0c5227/id/35825580