Hero Blog

Highlights from Season 2 of the Education Heroes Podcast

Written by Paul Sibson | Jun 29, 2023 4:43:00 AM

In Season 2 of the Education Heroes Podcast, host Paul Sibson shared inspiring conversations with remarkable minds in education from New Zealand and Australia.

In case you missed any episodes, here's a recap of the stories we heard in Season 2.

Episode 1: Jase Williams

In Episode 1, Paul sat down with Jase Williams, the Principal of Henry Hill school in Napier, NZ. Jase's inspiring journey and courageous work to improve education in Aotearoa, New Zealand, left a lasting impact. We explored his unique training in the Neurosequential Model of Education and its influence on promoting wellbeing and fostering a sense of community.

Listen on the Hero Website Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

Episode 2: Nikki Bonus

Nikki Bonus, the Founder and CEO of Life Skills Group in Australia, joined Paul in Episode 2. Nikki's powerful storytelling and message of leadership and compassion resonated with our team. She shared her personal story of overcoming challenges and how it has shaped her purpose and the remarkable work she does today.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

Episode 3: Ben Witheford

In Episode 3, Paul welcomed Ben Witheford, the Principal of Shotover Primary School in Queenstown, NZ. Ben's wealth of experience in education shone through as he discussed the importance of values-aligned leadership and building effective teams. In this episode, we gained valuable insights into coaching and authentic curriculum design.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

Episode 4: Karla Hull

Karla Hull, the Principal of Te Puru School in Thames, NZ, joined Paul on the podcast in Episode 4. Karla's strong connection with her community was evident as she shared her experiences leading a 'beach' school. From students paddle-boarding at lunchtime to a curriculum based on moon phases and fostering exploration, Karla's commitment to student-centred, place-based learning sparked thought-provoking discussions.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

Episode 5: Shelley Parkes

Episode 5 featured Shelley Parkes, the Deputy Principal at Oakleigh Grammar in Melbourne. Paul and Shelley delved into the power of authenticity in teaching and creating a safe and empowering environment for students to thrive. Shelley's personal journey and her commitment to celebrating individual achievements resonated with our own heroic values, and left us with a renewed sense of purpose.

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

Episode 6: Paul Sibson

In a special twist, Episode 6 turned the tables as our host, Paul Sibson, stepped into the guest seat. Joined by guest host, Jack Goodfellow, Paul reflected on his own journey in education, from his early years as a milk monitor with a passion for writing, to becoming a primary school principal. He shared his frustrations as a leader, which ultimately led to the creation of Hero. A secret skill may have even been revealed...

Listen on the Hero Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

 

That’s a wrap!

Thank you to our listeners for joining us across Season 2 of the Education Heroes Podcast. We are grateful to our heroic guests who generously shared their stories, challenges, insights and expertise.

Enjoyed Season 2? Stay tuned for Season 3, as Paul continues to celebrate the everyday heroes who help unleash the potential of learners worldwide.