Claim OwnershipThe Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast
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ยฉ 2026 The Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast
Description
๐ผ๐ง๐ ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช ๐ง๐๐๐๐ฎ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐ก๐๐๐ ๐๐ฉ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐๐ญ๐ฉ ๐ก๐๐ซ๐๐ก?ย
๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช ๐๐ง๐, ๐ฉ๐๐๐จ ๐๐จ ๐ฉ๐๐ ๐ฅ๐ค๐๐๐๐จ๐ฉ ๐๐ค๐ง ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช!
Through my recruitment work in the education and public sectors, I see trends emerging amongst the 1000s of candidates I've helped to date - from โก๏ธ career blindspots toโก๏ธ long, complicated interview questions andโก๏ธhow confidence holds so many teachers back.
Because I understand the system that teachers work in, the language they use, the challenges they face, and the frameworks that shape education, this podcast (and the way I work) means that teachers grow professionally as quickly as possible!
Combining mindset with strategy, I'll be sharing ways to sell yourself better and how to make the Looking at Our School Document work for you. I'll also share insider stories from experts in education and beyond.ย
๐ฅDon't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast for weekly career and leadership tips.
Owner: Orla Dempsey
50ย Episodes
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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview Brien Kearns, administrative principal of Castletown National School in Navan, County Meath, about his career from an early HR role in the Department of Justice to nearly 20 years in teaching and becoming a principal in 2020 just before COVID. Brien explains how HR experience shaped his approach to relationship-building, communication, professionalism, and handling grievances, and how principals spend much of their t...
On the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, host Orla interviews photographer Jill OโMeara about personal branding and headshot photography for professionals, including ambitious teachers seeking leadership roles. Jill explains how she creates a safe, guided studio experience in Enfield, Co Meath - optional makeover, posing, real-time photo review, attention to detail, and tailored planning around clientsโ colors and personality - to help clients feel grounded, confident, and accurately ...
In this Growth in Educational Leadership podcast episode, I interview Nick Woolley, a former secondary maths teacher and now full-time coach and coach trainer, co-director of the Inclusive Futures Academy. Nick describes discovering coaching on a leadership course, becoming an ICF-accredited coach, and returning to education after initially trying to leave the sector, now coaching students through senior leaders. He explains Inclusive Futures (a not-for-profit CIC focused on socia...
I interview Xiaoxiao Mulhall, current president of Network Kildare (part of Network Ireland) and founder of Sinoventures, about inclusive growth through global connections and building deeper member relationships. Xiaoxiao explains Network Kildareโs role as a womenโs network supporting business owners, employees, and aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting guided networking, joint events with other branches, and plans to increase visibility via PR, LinkedIn, Instagram, and personal branding.&nbs...
In this episode of the Growth and Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview teacher and HSCL liaison officer Cathal Twaddle about his career milestones, psychology studies, and leadership learning shaped by sport. Cathal describes an early prison service role and how a manager linked team sport to resilience and teamwork, which became a lens for his teaching and leadership. He discusses โtwo roadsโ moments influenced by his parentsโ limited educational opportunities and his fatherโs d...
In this week's episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I speak with Andrea Byrne, who shares her journey from a secondary school teacher to becoming an online fitness coach and gym owner. Andrea discusses the challenges and rewards of her career change, the importance of community in her gym, and the transition from using Instagram as a teacher to leveraging it for her fitness business. Useful Links: The Andrea Byrne Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jbCWAicOiJUYB...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I welcome Sean McWeeny, a math educator and juggling enthusiast. Sean shares his innovative approach to making math enjoyable and accessible through his unique workshops that combine juggling and quadratic equations. He discusses the importance of embracing mistakes, developing a growth mindset, and fostering intrinsic motivation in both students and teachers. Sean also delves into the significance of empathy a...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, Vicky Shilling, a former coach and expert in self-belief and self-confidence, joins me to discuss how educators and leaders can build self-confidence and tackle self-doubt. Vicky highlights her journey from the classical music sector to helping entrepreneurs and professionals in diverse fields develop self-trust and handle setbacks with compassion. The conversation covers practical methods for restructuring beliefs, handli...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview Debbie O'Neil, the principal of Scoil Eoin, a special school in Crumlin. Debbie shares her journey from aspiring journalist to educational leader, discusses the challenges facing special education, particularly in light of government policies on inclusion, and advocates for the importance of tailored educational environments for children with mild general learning disabilities. She also emphasises th...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview Ben Henry, founder of Novera Coaching, who shares his journey from 15 years in education to becoming a career coach. We discuss the importance of clarity, building confidence, and the lasting satisfaction of helping clients navigate career transitions, particularly for teachers considering a change. We also touch upon effective coaching strategies, the significance of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses, and...
"Muscle doesn't know age. It only knows effort." In this enlightening episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I host Darina Dunne, an Irish advocate for physical activity and pharmaceutical professional. We discuss the critical role of movement in public health, her journey from pharmacology to physical fitness advocacy, the importance of strength training, and the need for paradigm shifts in public health policies. Darina also shares personal insights on confidence, aging, ...
This episode focuses on how teachers can avoid feeling overlooked, particularly those with significant experience. The discussion includes the importance of self-reflection, skill development, positive affirmation, and aligning oneself with future leadership roles. I also touch on dealing with online criticism and I recognise the trauma and challenges educators face. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update00:45 Addressing Teacher Overlook and Job Applications02:54 Personal Chal...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I speak with Lisa Kirwan, a lecturer in pediatric nursing at Trinity College and a PhD student. Lisa shares her recent struggles with securing childcare for her four-year-old daughter and the advocacy work she has undertaken to raise awareness about the lack of childcare resources. We delve into the importance of community support, the role of empathy and communication in education, and the significance of networking and leaders...
In this episode, HR consultant Maura Hurley joins us to discuss her extensive experience in HR management and consulting for SMEs. The conversation spans various subjects, including succession planning, organisational culture, recruitment, and the importance of emotional intelligence. Maura also emphasises the benefits of self-awareness, continuous learning, and strategic leadership while sharing practical insights for conducting interviews and handling workplace challenges. TIMESTAMPS 00:32 ...
In episode 36, I dive deep into the importance of networking, its benefits, and strategies to overcome common networking blocks. I also share my personal experiences from a course at UCD's Innovation Academy and offer actionable steps for educators to start building their networks. Additionally, I highlight my upcoming networking event called The Lead Together Networking Event for teachers. TIMESTAMPS 00:33 Personal and Professional Updates01:37 The Importance of Networking07:11 Defining Netw...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I am joined by Maureen Mc Cowen, a presentation specialist and former post-primary teacher. We discuss the importance of effective communication, how to strategically prepare for interviews and presentations, and the nuances of body language. Maureen shares her personal journey and invaluable tips on adapting teaching skills to a business environment, enhancing self-awareness, and confidently presenting oneself in various profes...
In episode 34 of the Growth in Educational Leadership podcast, I share insights from a recent trip to Budapest and discuss the seven common mistakes that teachers make when transitioning into leadership roles. Key points include the importance of emotional intelligence, amplifying strengths, creating a personal leadership vision, and stepping up to lead without waiting for permission. ๐ Don't miss next week's episode - where I will be speaking to Presentation Skills coach Maureen Mc Cow...
In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I introduce my new title! I am The Breakthrough Teacher Leader Mentor! ๐ In this value-laden episode, I discuss the numerous mindset challenges teachers face when stepping into leadership roles. These challenges include imposter syndrome, fear of visibility, overworking, a fixed identity as just a teacher, fear of change, the need for approval, pursuit of perfection, and fear of letting go. NEW FREEBIE - EMAIL CHALLENGE Jo...
Introducing Helena Jacob, a business and accounting teacher known for her insightful social media presence. Helena discusses how she started sharing educational resources on Twitter and Instagram, getting inspiration from other educators, and eventually launching her own book 'Lead and Succeed' to align with new leaving certificate business studies specifications. We explore the process of writing her book, her use of digital tools in teaching, and Helena's passion for innovative educat...
Inspired by a comment on The Gratitude Attitude Podcast, I'm reflecting on why it takes time to develop professional relationships. I discuss how relationships, unlike gathering people for your network requires time and consistency to develop. Emotional safety, patience, and build trust through small, consistent actions. Practical strategies for leaders, such as active listening, acknowledging past experiences, and celebrating small wins, are shared to help school leaders create a...
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