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© Sundeep Chohan and Kristi Blakeway
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"Leading Voices in Education" is a Surrey Schools podcast that brings together educators, principals, and vice-principals to explore key topics in leadership and education. Focused on creating compassionate systems, promoting diversity, and driving inclusive practices, this podcast provides valuable insights and discussions for those shaping the future of education. Tune in for thoughtful conversations aimed at fostering leadership that truly supports and uplifts all students and communities.
25 Episodes
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Authors Shane Safir, Marlo Bagsik, and Dr. Sawsan Jaber join us to discuss Pedagogies of Voice — a powerful call to reimagine classrooms where students don’t just participate but lead. Together, they unpack the barriers that silence young people, the ten toxins that block learning, and four domains that cultivate agency: identity, belonging, inquiry, and efficacy. They close with reflections on community, well-being, and the courage it takes to teach vulnerably.
In this conversation, Dr. Shelley Moore shares her journey in inclusive education, emphasizing the importance of creating environments where all students, including those with disabilities, can thrive. She introduces the Five P's framework for inclusion, discusses the barriers educators face, and highlights the need for purposeful Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Dr. Moore advocates for community reflection and data-driven decisions to ensure educational equity, and she provides innovative teaching strategies that support diverse learners. TakeawaysInclusion is about creating a sense of belonging for all students.The Five P's framework is essential for effective inclusive education.Mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming barriers to inclusion.Individual Education Plans should focus on student strengths and community needs.Community reflection is vital for understanding the needs of diverse learners.Data-driven decisions can enhance educational equity.Innovative teaching strategies can support all learners effectively.Supports should be viewed as tools for empowerment, not as stigmas.Educators must advocate for inclusive practices that reflect community diversity.Balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities is essential for educators.
In this powerful and reflective conversation, JB Mahli, Director of Instruction for the Surrey School district’s Racial Equity Department, shares his transformative journey in education and what it truly means to lead with equity and compassion. JB explores the role of listening circles in building trust and deepening understanding within school communities, and speaks candidly about the responsibility of allyship in meaningful anti-racism work. He challenges educators to examine and dismantle systemic racism in schools while remaining anchored in relationship and care. The conversation also highlights the importance of wellness habits for educators, reminding us that personal well-being is not separate from the work—but essential to sustaining courageous, equity-centered leadership.
This conversation delves into the neurobiological understanding of children's behavior, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that behaviors often stem from a nervous system response to perceived threats or overwhelm. Lori Desautels highlights how caregivers can better support children by understanding these underlying mechanisms rather than labeling them as simply oppositional or depressed.
In this conversation, Dr. Gordon Neufeld discusses the critical role of parent-child attachment in emotional and social development. He emphasizes that strong attachments foster resilience and confidence in children, and that vulnerability is essential for emotional growth. Neufeld highlights the challenges posed by modern society, including the impact of screens and peer relationships, and advocates for nurturing connections between children and caring adults. He encourages educators to foster these relationships and reclaim their roles in child development, ultimately providing hope for future generations through strong, supportive connections.
In this conversation, Dr. Gabor Maté shares his insights on trauma, child development, and the importance of relationships in education. He emphasizes that trauma is not just about past events but the unhealed wounds that affect individuals today. The discussion covers the role of environment, the impact of adverse childhood experiences, and the necessity of play in learning. Dr. Gabor Maté advocates for trauma-informed classrooms that prioritize understanding and compassion over punitive measures.
In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, Sundeep and Kristi sit down with three educators from Douglas Elementary in the Surrey School District — Angela Thiessen, Jacqueline Robinson, and Caitlyn Worth — who have spent the past four years teaching side-by-side and strengthening their practice through shared learning, reflection, and collaboration.Together, they explore what Compassionate Systems Thinking looks like in the real world of elementary classrooms, from grade one to grade six. The teachers share how this framework has reshaped their understanding of self-awareness, connection, and classroom systems — and how it’s transforming their students’ wellbeing, relationships, communication, and sense of belonging.
In this enlightening conversation, Meta Miriam Boll, co-founder of the Center for Systems Awareness at MIT, discusses the transformative potential of compassionate systems in education. She emphasizes the need for a redesign of the educational framework to foster genuine human connection, awareness, and emotional well-being among students and educators. The dialogue explores the importance of integrating social emotional learning with systems thinking, the challenges of changing entrenched educational structures, and practical strategies for educators to cultivate a more compassionate and effective learning environment.
In this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl discusses the vital role of social emotional learning (SEL) in education, emphasizing its foundational importance for both students and teachers. She shares personal experiences that shaped her passion for SEL, the impact of teacher well-being on student outcomes, and the integration of mindfulness practices in the classroom. The conversation highlights the necessity of creating a positive classroom environment, addressing student behavior with empathy, and the influence of compassionate leadership. Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl also reflects on her work with the Dalai Lama and offers practical advice for educators to foster well-being in their schools.
In this enlightening conversation, Right Honourable Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, discusses her leadership philosophy centered on empathy and kindness. She shares insights from her experiences, including the importance of school visits, the need to give students a voice, and the impact of influential teachers. Ardern also addresses the challenges young people face in making a difference and the significance of teaching history for nation-building. Her reflections on imposter syndrome and the importance of well-being in education provide valuable lessons for educators and leaders alike.TakeawaysEmpathy and kindness are essential qualities in leadership.School visits provide grounding experiences for leaders.Students want to be heard and supported in their needs.Young people can make a difference, no matter how small.Teachers have a profound impact on their students' lives.Imposter syndrome can be a strength in leadership.Books can inspire and empower young minds.Well-being is crucial for both educators and students.Teaching history is vital for understanding and nation-building.Leadership requires authenticity and the ability to acknowledge mistakes.
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Gholdy Muhammad shares her journey into culturally responsive education, emphasizing the importance of identity, joy, and the five pursuits of education. She discusses practical strategies for teachers to explore and affirm student identities while fostering a joyful learning environment. Gholdy highlights the need for educators to reconnect with their own histories and the histories of their students to create a more inclusive and empowering educational experience.
In this powerful conversation, Jo Chrona shares her personal and professional journey into Indigenous education and anti-racism. She emphasizes the importance of relationships in learning, the need to unlearn biases, and the misconceptions surrounding Indigenous education. Jo discusses culturally responsive teaching strategies, the impact of privilege and low expectations, and the significance of high expectations based on relationships. The conversation concludes with a hopeful outlook on the future of education, highlighting the need for commitment to learning and doing differently.
In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, Michael Fullan discusses the need for a transformative approach to education, emphasizing the importance of student agency, social intelligence, and collaborative cultures within schools. He critiques the existing educational systems and highlights the role of principals in fostering environments where instructional leadership can thrive. Fullan also addresses the implications of AI in education and the necessity of critical thinking and creativity in preparing students for the future. Takeaways:The existing educational system is ineffective and needs transformation.Students and teachers should be co-developers of the educational system.Testing and top-down accountability are wrong drivers in education.Social intelligence is crucial for effective learning environments.Connected autonomy balances individual teacher autonomy with collaboration.Principals should protect their schools from ineffective hierarchical structures.Education has the power to either harm or benefit society.Critical thinking and creativity are essential skills for students.AI poses risks of superficial learning if not integrated thoughtfully.Elevating student voice and partnership is vital for educational reform
In this conversation, Jody discusses the critical importance of connection in education, emphasizing that both educators and students are wired for connection. She highlights the impact of trauma on learning and behavior, advocating for a shift in perspective from seeing students as attention-seeking to understanding their need for connection. Jody also addresses the significance of creating safe and inclusive environments in schools, the role of privilege and representation, and the necessity for educators to maintain their passion and purpose amidst challenges. The conversation underscores the need for emotional regulation and empathy in educational settings, ultimately aiming to foster a supportive community for both students and educators.
Summary: In this conversation, Mark Pearmain, the superintendent of Surrey Schools, shares his extensive journey in education, discussing the importance of authenticity in leadership, the challenges of navigating change, and the role of technology in modern education. He emphasizes the need for trust-building in new leadership roles and the significance of maintaining emotional well-being as a leader. Mark also expresses his hopes for the upcoming school year, focusing on the importance of kindness and community support in overcoming challenges.Takeaways:Mark Pearmain has 30 years of experience in education.Authenticity is crucial for effective leadership.New leaders should build trust within their communities.Change is inherently difficult for individuals and organizations.Transparency in leadership fosters trust and understanding.Students need to develop collaboration and communication skills.Technology should enhance, not replace, learning experiences.Leaders must empower their teams to share the workload.Emotional well-being is essential for effective leadership.Kindness and grace are vital in challenging times.
In this compelling episode of Leading Voices in Education, Dr. Michael Ungar—a renowned family therapist and resilience expert—offers a nuanced, research-backed perspective on what it truly means to help children thrive. Moving beyond the simplistic "bounce back" definition of resilience, Dr. Ungar emphasizes that resilience is not solely an internal trait but a dynamic process shaped by supportive environments, relationships, and equitable systems. Through engaging stories and practical strategies, he highlights the importance of age-appropriate challenges, natural consequences, and strong adult connections in building resilience. He critiques the overextension of trauma-informed practices that may unintentionally promote fragility, underscores the developmental value of failure, and warns against overprotective parenting. Crucially, he stresses that resilience requires different supports for different kids—what works for one child with a strong safety net might not work for another without it. Dr. Ungar invites educators and parents to act as thoughtful coaches, helping children navigate life transitions with growing independence. The episode ultimately calls on listeners to embrace resilience as a collective responsibility—rooted in context, equity, and intentional care—offering both inspiration and concrete tools for supporting the well-being of all youth.
In this powerful episode of Leading Voices in Education, we sit down with Jessica Kruger — athlete, artist, entrepreneur, and advocate — whose story of resilience challenges assumptions and redefines what’s possible. From sailing the world as a child to navigating life after a spinal cord injury at age 15, Jessica shares her remarkable journey of reclaiming independence, pushing boundaries, and changing perceptions of disability. She opens up about her experiences breaking barriers in modeling, wheelchair rugby, and culinary school — including facing exclusion from programs and ultimately becoming the first wheelchair user to complete VCC’s pastry arts program. Alongside her accomplishments, Jessica speaks candidly about the mental health struggles that accompanied them, and how therapy and community support helped her reshape her expectations and self-worth. Through it all, Jessica embodies the spirit of her former business name — The Stubborn Baker — showing us how grit, humour, and heart can turn obstacles into stepping stones.
In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, hosts Sundeep Chohan and Kristi Blakeway engage in a compelling conversation with Lamis Sabra, an esteemed educator and advocate for creative learning. The discussion delves into the pivotal role of creativity in education, examining how it fosters student engagement and nurtures innovation. Sabra shares her insights on integrating creative practices into the classroom, emphasizing the importance of cultivating an environment where students feel empowered to express themselves and think critically. The episode also explores strategies for educators to overcome challenges in implementing creative curricula and highlights the transformative impact of embracing creativity in teaching methodologies. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on fostering a culture of creativity that not only enhances learning outcomes but also prepares students to navigate an ever-evolving world.
This powerful episode of Leading Voices in Education features Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, a hereditary chief and one of Canada’s most respected voices for reconciliation. In a heartfelt conversation, Chief Joseph shares his personal journey from the trauma of residential schools to becoming a national and global advocate for healing, love, and unity. Drawing from his book Namwayut: We Are All One, he speaks with wisdom and compassion about the meaning of reconciliation, the role of education in restoring identity and belonging, and how simple acts of kindness can lead to profound transformation. This episode invites educators and listeners alike to embrace the power of story, connection, and hope in their own communities.
On this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we talk with Dan Pontefract, author of Work Life Bloom. We dive into the unrealistic pursuit of work-life balance and explore how educators, especially, can blend their professional and personal lives by embracing the concept of "blooming" rather than striving for perfection. Dan discusses how perfectionism, often fuelled by the multiple roles educators play, can hinder growth, and he encourages leaders to prioritize authenticity and value in their teams. The conversation also touches on key leadership qualities such as trust, norms, and how leaders can help their teams feel valued and supported, ultimately fostering a thriving work environment.
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