PiXL Leadership Bookclub
Everything rests on leadership. Each fortnight on PiXL’s Leadership Bookclub, Rachel Johnson, PiXL CEO, will be joined by two school leaders to discuss one non-educational leadership book that can change the way we think, teach, and lead. Reflecting, they talk about the lessons they have learned about their own leadership, and the result is honest, candid conversation, with practical takeaways for all educators. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: https://www.pixl.org.uk/membership
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Poor
06/04/2025
Poor
What does it take to break the cycle and who helps make that possible? In this deeply moving episode of the PiXL Leadership Book Club, Rachel Johnson is joined by Rebecca Broadley and Sapna Vadher to discuss Poor by Katriona O’Sullivan, a story of survival, resilience and the transformative power of education. Growing up in poverty, becoming a mum at 15 and experiencing homelessness, Katriona defied the odds and credits the teachers and mentors who saw something in her when it felt like no one else did. Her memoir is a fierce call to action to recognise the invisible battles many children face and to lead with compassion, high expectations and belief. Katriona has previously joined us to share her story at PiXL events and it never fails to stop people in their tracks. This conversation builds on that legacy, offering school leaders a powerful reminder: your words, your care, your belief might just be the turning point in a child’s life. An unforgettable listen for anyone who leads, teaches or holds space for young people. If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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Ruthlessly Caring
05/21/2025
Ruthlessly Caring
What does it really take to lead well in today’s uncertain and fast-moving world? In this episode of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub podcast, Rachel Johnson is joined by Lynsey Holzer and Kerim Ramadan to explore Ruthlessly Caring by Amy Walters Cohen. They reflect on how school leadership is evolving and what it means to embrace paradoxes like being ambitious while staying grounded, or confident while remaining humble. Drawing from the book’s five leadership mindsets, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone leading in schools today, whether that is for one school, or many as part of your Trust! Tune in today for the practical top tips that you can use to master thinking through paradoxes, not simply being paralysed by them when they come up. If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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Women Who Work Too Much
05/07/2025
Women Who Work Too Much
Are we all using our last embers just to keep going in our jobs as teachers? This week on the PiXL Leadership Bookclub, Rachel Johnson is joined by guests to explore Women Who Work Too Much by Tamu Thomas. This is a powerful guide to breaking free from burnout, overwork and the pressure to prove your worth by doing more. Though written for women, the truths in this book resonate across the profession: educators are carrying an ever-growing load—at work, at home, and in their own heads. They dive into ‘talk boundaries’, rest, guilt and the belief that we must earn our worth through relentless effort. If you’re tired of feeling stretched thin but still pushing through, this one’s for you! Tune in and ask yourself: what might change if you stopped seeing rest as weakness? If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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Never Split the Difference
04/23/2025
Never Split the Difference
There’s an art to negotiating, and who better to learn how to handle the toughest conversations than from a former hostage negotiator? In our next episode, we delve into Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, a former international FBI hostage negotiator whose high-stakes experiences have shaped a revolutionary approach to everyday negotiation. Rachel (PiXL CEO), and Grace and Kay unpack how Voss transforms the tactics once reserved for life-or-death scenarios into practical strategies for influencing outcomes at work, in schools, and beyond. From tactical empathy to the surprising power of “no”, and how a well-placed mirror or label can unlock breakthroughs, this is a masterclass in human connection and persuasion – something all school leaders can benefit from. Whether you’re handling a tricky conversation with colleagues or parents, or just trying to get your pupils to do their homework, this episode has something for you. Get ready to negotiate like life depends on it – because sometimes, your success just might make a difference in those who you lead. If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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Glad We Met
04/09/2025
Glad We Met
1:1 meetings happen every day in schools, but are they as impactful as they could be? In this episode of the Leadership Book Club, PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson is joined by experienced school leaders Claire Moss and Aaron Wanford as they delve into Glad We Met by Steven G. Rogelberg. Drawing on research from top organisations, Rogelberg reveals how to make these meetings a tool for growth, not just another box to tick. Our guests explore strategies and share how they apply strategies to make meeting more meaningful from finding the right frequency, striking the balance between productivity and relationship-building and tailoring meetings to individual needs. With practical insights on listening, feedback and creating real value in every conversation in school, this episode is essential for leaders looking to make their meetings more effective and energising. If you’ve ever walked away from a 1:1 thinking, 'Was that really worth it?', this discussion is for you! If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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The Friction Project
03/26/2025
The Friction Project
Schools are fast-paced environments where time is precious, but too often, unnecessary friction slows us down. In this episode of the Leadership Book Club, PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson is joined by experienced school leaders Mariam Rizvi and Deneen Kenchington as they unpack their biggest takeaways from The Friction Project by Huggy Rao and Robert I. Sutton. Together, they explore how to spot and fix the everyday obstacles that waste time and energy – from overcomplicated systems to information overload. They discuss the power of becoming “trustees of others’ time,” why ending tasks well with “Ta-da” lists matters, and how subtraction specialists can help with streamlining processes, particularly in assessment. This episode is full of practical insights to help school leaders remove barriers, improve efficiency and create a smoother, more effective working environment. If you’ve ever felt bogged down by unnecessary complexity, this one’s for you! If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's three books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit:
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Languishing
03/12/2025
Languishing
We’re kicking off Series 6 with Languishing by Corey Keyes, the book that finally puts a name to that feeling of being stuck, drained and just going through the motions. Rachel Johnson is joined by school leaders Chris and Angela to explore how this shows up in education and, more importantly, what we can do about it. From recognising the signs in ourselves and our teams to finding simple ways to boost motivation and well-being, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Together, they unpack insightful strategies for recognising and overcoming this state – helping school leaders foster resilience, meaning and growth in themselves and their teams. So many gems in this episode like how play isn’t just for students! As teachers, we have a responsibility to make lessons fun, bringing energy and creativity into the classroom to keep everyone engaged. Ready to go from just getting by to flourishing? Tune in! If you enjoyed PiXL Leadership Book Club... Check out the PiXL website: for free downloads Read Rachel's two books: Listen to the PiXL Pearls. The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production. For more information visit:
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Season 6 - starting March 12th
03/05/2025
Season 6 - starting March 12th
The PiXL Leadership Bookclub Podcast is back! New books, fresh insights and real conversations about what great leadership looks like in schools. This series, we’re exploring a great range of non-educational leadership books, including: Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down – because ‘just getting by’ isn’t the goal. The Friction Project: How Smart Leaders Make the Right Things Easier and the Wrong Things Harder – finding flow in leadership. Glad We Met: The Art and Science of 1:1 Meetings – making every conversation count. Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It – the skills every leader needs. Women Who Work Too Much: Break Free from Toxic Productivity and Find Your Joy – working smarter, not harder. And more! Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) and our experienced guests, apply these ideas for use in schools, making a real difference in the lives of those we lead every day. With their insights and reflections, this series will challenge your thinking and spark new ideas for your own leadership. Join us every other Wednesday – first episode drops March 12th.
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The 4 Disciplines of Execution
06/12/2024
The 4 Disciplines of Execution
Welcome to the final episode of Series 5 of the PiXL Leadership Book Club. Join host Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) as she dives into "The 4 Disciplines of Execution" by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling. This week, Rachel is joined by Leo Dudin (Deputy Head Academic at Oakham School) and Carly Woodall (Head of Year 6 at Brooklands School). Together, they unpack the timeless principles of focus, leverage, engagement, and accountability from the book that has shaped much of PiXL's methodology. Discover how these educational leaders apply the four disciplines to enhance student outcomes and school leadership. Learn practical strategies for setting wildly important goals, developing lead measures, and creating a cadence of accountability. Tune in to explore the transformative power of disciplined execution in education. Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1. PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Fractured
05/29/2024
Fractured
Welcome to the penultimate episode of the 5th series of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub! Join Rachel Johnson, PiXL CEO, with Chandini Misra (Principal at Repton Al Barsha in Dubai) and Amos Turner-Wardell (Principal at Regents International School Pattaya in Thailand), as they explore Jon Yates' impactful book, "Fractured: Why Our Societies Are Coming Apart and How We Put Them Back Together Again". Yates' book delves into the root causes of societal division and offers a hopeful roadmap for fostering belonging and unity. In a world where we increasingly spend less time with those different from ourselves, Yates demonstrates how engaging with diverse groups can build understanding, tolerance, and friendship. Discover how these school leaders apply Yates' insights to create a sense of belonging within their educational communities. From fostering inclusive environments to implementing shared practices that bridge divides, they share practical strategies for uniting students and staff in diversity and fortifying empathy. Join us for an inspiring conversation on strengthening the bonds within your school community. Tune in to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub and learn how to build a more connected and inclusive environment in your schools today! Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1. PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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The Promise That Changes Everything
05/15/2024
The Promise That Changes Everything
Explore Nancy Kline's "The Promise That Changes Everything" with Rachel Johnson (PiXL, CEO) Angela Stanton, Headteacher at Brookhurst School in Warwickshire, and Chris Stephens, Deputy Head at The Romsey School in Southampton. In a world where communication is key, Kline's book introduces a powerful promise: "I won't interrupt you". Learn how this pledge can strengthen relationships and improve conversations, particularly in the educational arena. Join these experienced leaders as they uncover practical strategies for better listening, drawing from Kline's research on independent thought and communication barriers. From understanding the mechanisms of the four systems of interruptions to implementing innovative practices like 'Solution Circles', this episode is packed with actionable tips for educators and school leaders. Don't miss this chance to transform your communication skills and deepen your connections with those you lead. Tune in to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub and unlock the promise that could change everything! Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1. PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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The Talent Code
05/01/2024
The Talent Code
Host Rachel Johnson is joined by Paul Ainsworth (author and Education Director at Infinities Academy Trust), and Damith Bandara (Deputy Head at St Margaret's CofE in London), as they dig out the gems from Daniel Coyle's "The Talent Code: Unlocking the Secret of Skill". In this captivating book, Coyle reveals the key elements for optimising performance in sports, art, music, math, and more. Our guests unpack precisely how to apply this to the educational environment, giving us nuggets of wisdom they’ve collected as experienced school leaders. Learn about ‘Deep Practice’, ‘Ignition’, and ‘Master Coaching’ and how they can be implemented in schools to nurture talent, enhance learning, and propel leadership development. Join us as we explore practical strategies for fostering a culture of excellence and unlocking the potential of every staff and student. Tune in to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub for insights into unleashing greatness in education! Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1. PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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High Performance
04/17/2024
High Performance
Welcome to another insightful episode of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub! This week, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) is joined by Alan Brooks (Deputy Head at St Michael's CofE High School in Wolverhampton) and Dina Shah (Deputy Principal at St Julian's School in Portugal). Together, they explore the transformative wisdom of Jake Humphrey and Professor Damian Hughes' "High Performance: Lessons from the Best on Becoming Your Best". Humphrey and Hughes reveal the eight essential habits of the world's leading sportspeople, coaches, and entrepreneurs– but what relevance could these lessons have in a school setting? From taking ownership of one's learning journey to identifying and fostering 'Trademark Behaviours', this book offers invaluable insights for educators and pupils alike. Whether it is instilling a sense of responsibility, fostering a growth mindset, empowering student voices or boosting self-efficacy, the lessons this book offers lay out a blueprint for success. Take advantage of this dynamic episode of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub podcast for the opportunity to learn how to start nurturing the best cultures for high performance within your team, your school, your community, and beyond. Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1.PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Fearless Organisation
04/03/2024
Fearless Organisation
Welcome to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub, where this week, brave humble and fearless leadership takes centre stage! Join Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) along with Saiqua Zaneb (Assistant Head, Central Foundation Girls' School) and Cat Rushton, (Director of Institute, Academy Transformation Trust) as they uncover profound insights from Amy C. Edmondson’s ground-breaking book, "The Fearless Organization". Edmondson’s work serves as a guiding beacon for cultivating psychological safety within teams, fostering an environment conducive to learning, innovation, and growth. Discover the vital link between psychological safety and high performance, and learn practical strategies for creating an educational environment where authenticity thrives and outcomes flourish as a result. Our school leaders share their wealth of experience and practical tips for nurturing engagement, embracing diverse perspectives, and celebrating risk-taking. From cultivating the right conditions to making space for proactive enquiry, they dive into the methods and strategies they adopt to ensure they constantly strive to foster a sense of psychological safety within their teams. Tune in to break out of your comfort zone and embrace fearless leadership today! Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1.PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Deep Work
03/20/2024
Deep Work
Welcome to another enlightening episode of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub! Join host Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) as she engages in a captivating discussion with Samantha Rasmussen (Vice Principal at Ely College) and Lucy Morris (Deputy Head at The Kingston Academy). This week, they unravel the transformative insights of Cal Newport's "Deep Work". Newport's book sheds light on the power of focus amidst the chaos of modern life. It explores how, by mastering the ability to concentrate on cognitively demanding tasks, individuals can unlock extraordinary results and true fulfilment in their professional endeavours. Join us as we delve into the strategies for embracing deep work and harnessing it as a superpower in the busyness of the school day. From the physical act of shutting doors or removing themselves from distracting spaces to capitalising on "trapped time", our seasoned educators share their tested strategies for reclaiming precious moments of concentration amidst the chaos. Tune in to this episode to embark on a journey toward greater consistent productivity both in and out of the school setting. Did you know we have two other podcasts? PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Fierce Leadership
03/06/2024
Fierce Leadership
Set aside conventional wisdom as we challenge the status quo of organisational practices. Welcome back to Series 5 of the PiXL Leadership Bookclub, where we dive deep into the realms of leadership with unyielding curiosity. Join host Rachel Johnson as she embarks on an leadership approaches, extracting key messages and discussing the key concepts, alongside Jeremy Rowe (CEO/Director of Education at Sir John Leman High School), and Pav Aujla (Teaching and Learning lead at Creative Education Trust). In this illuminating episode, we explore the paradigm-shifting insights of Susan Scott's "Fierce Leadership". From debunking the myths of anonymous feedback to revolutionising accountability, Scott unveils a bold new perspective on effective leadership, and our guests apply this to the educational environment! Prepare to have your perceptions challenged as these leaders dissect the flawed "best" practices ingrained in school cultures and be fierce in your leadership. Did you know we have two other podcasts? 1. PiXL Pearls - 10 minute leadership reflections 2. How do you teach? Covering the trickiest issues in English and Science and giving practical ways of teaching them PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: or email us at to find out more. PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Be a guest on Series 5
08/01/2023
Be a guest on Series 5
Schools are out for summer. We are preparing for Series 5 of the PiXL Leadership Book Club Podcast. Now it's your turn to be a guest discussing the books on the list. Know someone who would be a great guest? Send them the link to this and tell them how brilliant they'd be. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Insight
06/14/2023
Insight
Join us for an enlightening final episode of Series 4 of the Leadership Bookclub podcast, as we dive into 'Insight: The Power of Self-Awareness in a Self-Deluded World' by Dr. Tasha Eurich. Drawing from her extensive research and Fortune 500 experience, she reveals why introspection alone isn't enough and how experience can hinder self-knowledge. Hosted by Rachel Johnson, PiXL CEO, will equip you with practical tools and techniques to enhance your work performance, career satisfaction, and the quality of relationships within the school community. To shed light on how to apply this to a school setting, we have two exceptional guest speakers: Amy Sayer, an accomplished author and mental health trainer for schools, and Silas Edmond, Principal of Ewell Castle School. Together, along with Rachel Johnson, they explore how insights gained from self-awareness can positively influence teaching, leadership, student relationships, and overall school culture. Tune in and discover how 'Insight' can be the essential playbook for surviving and thriving in the schooling environment, where self-awareness matters more than ever. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Both/And Thinking
05/31/2023
Both/And Thinking
Are you tired of 'either-or' thinking? Struggling to balance competing demands in your personal and professional life? Join us as we explore 'Both/And Thinking' by Marianne W. Lewis and Wendy K. Smith. In this insightful book, Lewis and Smith provide tools and lessons for transforming paradoxes into opportunities for personal growth and innovation. They draw from more than twenty years of pioneering research to help readers cope with multiple, knotted tensions at the same time. Aaron Marsham, an Assistant Headteacher and PiXL Raising Standards Leader, and Angela Schofield, Programme Development Lead for Excelsior Multi Academy Trust, explore practical ways to apply Both/And Thinking in a school setting to improve diversity, manage the core school culture while innovating for the future, and much more. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher and discover how to break free from either-or thinking and embrace the power of Both/And Thinking for personal and professional success. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Love and Work
05/17/2023
Love and Work
Do you want to bring love back into your school environment? Join us for a game-changing episode of the Leadership Bookclub podcast, where we discuss 'Love + Work' by Marcus Buckingham. In this eye-opening book, Buckingham shows how to break free from conformity and decode your own loves and those of others to create an environment that thrives on love and connection. Our guest speakers for this episode are Yamina Bibi (Assistant Headteacher for Teaching and Learning and Resilient Leaders Elements Consultant) and Jenny Corbett (Deputy Head Teacher at Knole Academy). Joining Rachel Johnson, PiXL CEO, they delve into their experiences of incorporating love and connection into their school environment and provide practical tips to help you do the same. This episode will inspire you to infuse your school with love and create an environment where students, teachers, and staff feel valued and empowered to bring their best selves to work every day. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher and discover how to bring love back into your work and personal life with "Love + Work". PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production.
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Everybody Matters
05/03/2023
Everybody Matters
Join us as we explore 'Everybody Matters' by Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia. Discover how to create a school culture where every staff member and student feels valued and motivated to contribute their gifts and talents towards a shared future. Our inspiring guest speakers, Laura Brogan (Key Stage 1 Leader and Phonics Leader for a Multiple Academy Trust) and Louise Jaunbocus-Cooper (Deputy Head Teacher at Wellington School and Co-Founder of MixEd), share their practical experiences of creating such an environment. Along with PiXL CEO, Rachel Johnson, they draw on Chapman's and Sisodia's transformative insights to drive morale, loyalty, creativity, and performance. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher to discover how to transform your school culture and make certain that your staff and students know that in your school, everybody matters. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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The Joy of Work
04/19/2023
The Joy of Work
Are you tired of feeling burnt out and unfulfilled at work? Join us as we explore Bruce Daisley's inspiring book 'The Joy of Work' and discover how to find happiness and satisfaction in your career. As one of the UK's most influential voices on ‘fixing work’, Bruce Daisley's insights and advice are sure to inspire you to find joy and fulfillment in your own work. Whether you're a teacher, a school leader, or in any other profession, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to rekindle their passion for their career. In this episode, we are delighted to be joined by two exceptional school leaders, Richard Uffendell (Headteacher at Ashton Park School), and Andrew Wilkinson (Assistant Headteacher at Al Rabeeh School). Together, with PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson, they share their experiences of creating a positive and enjoyable work environment for themselves and their colleagues. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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Jerks At Work
04/05/2023
Jerks At Work
From Kiss-up/Kick-downers, to Credit-Stealers, Bulldozers, Free-riders, Micromanagers, Neglectful bosses, and Gas-lighters, there are several types of “jerks” we may encounter in our lives, including within the schooling environment. We all have the capacity to be a jerk at work and to cause others problems, but how we recognise that in ourselves and those around us can really impact the flow of a team. Author Tessa West, a leading expert on interpersonal communication, sheds light on how to handle difficult colleagues with grace and professionalism. In this episode, we will explore the strategies outlined in her book and learn from our guest speakers' real-life examples Tune in to our latest episode of the Leadership Bookclub podcast, where we discuss Tessa West's ground-breaking book, 'Jerks at Work.' Our esteemed guest speakers, Lynsey White (Assistant Headteacher at a school in Cornwall), and Shakiara Valu, (Head of Performing Arts and Drama at Collingwood College), will join Rachel Johnson, PiXL CEO, to share their experiences and insights on dealing with challenging personalities within different educational and workplace settings. Don't miss out on this exciting, informative, and truly vital conversation. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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Chatter
03/22/2023
Chatter
The conversations we have with ourselves can have a profound impact on our mental health, ability to lead, and overall well-being. Award-winning psychologist Ethan Kross takes a deep dive into the power of our inner voice in 'Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It'. Experienced and insightful school leaders Debbie Christiansen (Headteacher, Peel Brow School) and Rebecca Simister, (Assistant Headteacher, Goldington Green Academy) join Rachel Johnson to discuss their biggest takeaways and how they have harnessed their “chatter” to overcome challenges. With real-life applications, in and out of the educational setting, tune in to this episode of the Leadership Bookclub podcast to find out how they have turned their inner critic into their inner coach. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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The Power of Moments
03/08/2023
The Power of Moments
Have you ever wondered why some moments in life stick with you forever, while others fade into the background? In "The Power of Moments", authors and brothers Chip and Dan Heath explore the four elements that make up our most memorable positive experiences: elevation, insight, pride, and connection. To kick off the fourth series, PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson is joined by Alex Pape (Assistant Headteacher at Vyners School) and Adam Lewis (Deputy Headteacher at Sewell Park Academy) as they discuss how, as leaders, they try to create powerful and impactful moments in their educational environments by utilising those four essential elements. Join us on this illuminating and engaging Leadership Bookclub episode as we delve into the fascinating mysteries of experience. We also learn how these educators and leaders have harnessed the power to become the authors of their defining moments, and how they share that with those they lead every day, whether it’s their staff, students, or themselves.
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Please Yourself
08/03/2022
Please Yourself
Whether it’s within schools, our personal lives, or any other professional endeavour, many of us find ourselves falling into patterns of wanting to be liked and pleasing others. When we forgo our own needs for the needs and requests of others, this becomes a pressing issue, especially when we are in positions where we need to lead. In this final episode of the third series of the Leadership Book Club, PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson is joined by experienced school leaders Mags Gee and Jay Davenport as they unpick each of their own valuable takeaways from Psychotherapist Emma Reed Turrell’s life changingly insightful book, ‘Please Yourself: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Transform the Way You Live’. These leaders explore how they identify their own people-pleasing tendencies, and how, using the practical advice uncovered within the pages of this book, they can ensure they are pleasing themselves, without compromising the best interests of each situation they are leading. Emma Reed Turrell has worn a multitude of hats throughout her life, from reading English at Cambridge University, to working in sales and marketing roles, but it is her passion of psychotherapy where she holds immense impact. In her debut book ‘Please Yourself’ she outlines how to care about others in the right way, and ultimately, help you better yourself, too. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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Accomplishment
07/20/2022
Accomplishment
Rachel Johnson, Sonia Thompson and Tracey Swinburne discuss Accomplishment by Sir Michael Barber. Listen to these school leaders explore their various fears and how they have countered those fears. They discuss the practical things you can do to get yourself unstuck and move forward, and suggest ways to effectively communicate your school's vision and values. Sir Michael Barber is a global leader in system delivery and change, former policy director under Prime Minister Tony Blair, and a renowned educationist. In Accomplishment, he distils complex processes to manageable steps, encouraging us to “Speak plainly, speak clearly and listen with care” with the promise that if you can do that, you can accomplish anything. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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Think Again
07/06/2022
Think Again
If we have the humility and curiosity to reconsider our beliefs, we can always reinvent ourselves. That’s what Adam Grant argues in his book ‘Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know.' Rachel Johnson (PiXL, CEO), Shayne Elsworth (Vice Principal, Bede Academy) and Ruth Georgiades (Deputy Head, Tring School) discuss the states you operate in when you don’t stay curious, where the sweet spot is and how to get there. They talk about why it’s important to be open, how to go about being more curious yourself and how they have helped others to be. They explore the three negative modes you might fall into when you aren’t ‘Thinking Again’ and how to avoid them. How are you encouraging others to be open and curious in your school? PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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Quiet: The Power of Introverts in A World That Can't Stop Talking
06/22/2022
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in A World That Can't Stop Talking
This episode, the book up for discussion is 'Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking' by Susan Cain. Senior leaders Rachel Ball of Co-op Academy Walkden and Carl Smith of Casterton College join PiXL's CEO, Rachel Johnson, to share their thoughts on how we can best serve the introverts, as well as the extroverts, in our schools – both staff and students. It is predicted that almost 50% of us have dominant introverted traits, and yet so much of our current work/school environment is built around extroverted ideals. The discussion flows around classroom setup, reframing 'quiet' as a negative trait, recruitment biases towards extroverted behaviours and utilising technology to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn and be heard. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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No Rules Rules
06/08/2022
No Rules Rules
In this episode, Rachel Johnson speaks with senior leaders Taz Johal (Assistant Headteacher, Brookvale Groby) and Maria Williams (Headteacher, Brigshaw High School) about Reed Hastings' (Netflix, CEO) and Erin Meyer's book 'No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention'. This leadership book has some fascinating insights from business and sparks much discussion around ideas which could translate well into the education world, as well as some which might would not. The conversation covers three key areas: building talent density, increasing candour, and reducing 'controls', with lots of discussion around vision alignment, feedback, and continually developing staff. PiXL is a partnership organisation of thousands of schools, colleges and alternative education providers spanning KS1-5. Find out more about how you could gain value from a PiXL subscription: PiXL Leadership Bookclub is a production. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
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