The Balloon Crew

What if the system meant to help kids actually pushes them away?And how do we support those who don’t fit the mould of mainstream education?In this episode, Chris East speaks with Chris Powell from Bespoke Mentoring - an organisation born from lived experience, supporting young people who’ve fallen through the gaps.Chris shares how his own school journey shaped his sixth sense for spotting emotional vulnerability, and why personalised, relationship-led support can change everything.Every young person is different, and so is the support they need. Bespoke Mentoring helps young people uncover barriers, rebuild trust, and find their path forward.Connect with Chris Powell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-powell-6a1b22157/Website: https://www.bespokementoring.org/-----The Balloon Crew - Soaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Chris PowellThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

What if burnout isn’t just a side effect of your job - but of your thinking?In this episode of The Balloon Crew Podcast, Chris East chats with Jane Reason to rethink everything we know about burnout. Drawing from her own experience, Jane challenges the idea that burnout is inevitable in demanding roles like education, healthcare, and beyond.What if burnout doesn’t need to exist at all?What if we could choose a different response?Jane explores how our environment, our thinking, and the stories we tell ourselves shape how we experience pressure and exhaustion. Together, they ask:Is it our fault, or is it our choice?What happens when we take off the ‘thought goggles’ and see more of what’s possible?This episode is a compassionate, thought-provoking invitation to step back, get curious, and see burnout in a whole new way.Jane is revolutionising self and system leadership through her Leadership Tree and Transformational Coaching. Connect with Jane:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-reason/---------The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Jane ReasonThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

What really shapes our views on sex education - and are schools getting it right? In this episode, Chris East dives into a raw and real conversation with Becky Blackledge, Founder of 'Get Real Sessions', about why inclusive, age-appropriate sex education is so crucial for young people today. They explore how personal experiences shape our views on sex ed, and why it needs to go beyond biology - covering healthy relationships, consent, online life, and self-identity.Becky shares how her four-part programme helps schools meet statutory guidance while making space for meaningful conversations that prepare young people for life.Connect With Becky: LinkedInGet Real Sessions Website-----Soaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Becky BlackledgeThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Feeling Stuck Finding the Right Support for Vulnerable Individuals?You're not alone.In this episode, Chris East is joined by Caroline Flynn from MAAPPUK to reveal a small but powerful tool that’s changing the way professionals connect people to the support they need.Imagine a simple keyring that gives you instant access to over 1,000 trusted resources - ready to use anytime on your smartphone, tablet, or shared via email.The ‘LinkIndex’ keyring - a clever bit of kit - puts vital information right at your fingertips exactly when it's needed. We dive into why early intervention is so important, and why working smarter, not harder is the future of professional support.With over 30 years of frontline and leadership experience across both the voluntary and statutory sectors, Caroline shares insights from her role as a Child Protection Chair — ensuring the resources she brings are relevant, practical, and powerful.Connect on LinkedIn: Caroline Flynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/safeguardinguk/MAAPPUK: https://www.linkedin.com/company/maappuk/----Soaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Caroline FlynnThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

In this episode of The Balloon Crew, Chris East chats with Sian Jorgensen — Child Protection Consultant, Director of Encompass Safeguarding, and Founder of ©SAFE Interviewing. With over 20 years of international experience, Sian offers valuable insight into the challenges and responsibilities of safeguarding in international schools and diverse communities.They discuss the importance of building connections and why everyone has a duty of care — wherever they work. Sian also unpacks how cultural, legal, and safeguarding expectations can differ globally, and how her work supports senior leaders in navigating these complexities.Learn how Sian’s SAFE Interviewing programme is transforming child protection responses with trauma-informed, sensitive, and effective interviewing practices.A must-listen for anyone working in international education or safeguarding — and anyone passionate about creating safer environments for children worldwide.Connect with Sian: LinkedInEncompass Safeguarding-----The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Sian JorgensenThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

How do you ensure that a candidate is truly the right fit for a role - not just on paper, but in practice? In this episode, Helen Bowen, Sian Jorgensen, and Jane Reason dive into the final stage of the safer recruitment process, looking beyond qualifications to assess a candidate’s capability, suitability, and background.They explore key considerations such as physical capability, organisational fit, and essential background checks, including social media screening and DBS checks. Plus, they share three key takeaways to help you strengthen your recruitment decisions and uphold safeguarding standards.Follow our hosts on LinkedIn: ⁠Helen Bowen ⁠– Head of Seniors at The English School of Mongolia. ⁠Sian Jorgensen⁠ – Director of Encompass Safeguarding. ⁠Jane Reason⁠ – Former Head Teacher and Deputy CEO.-----The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Helen Bowen, Sian Jorgensen, Jane Reason. The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

References play a crucial role in the safer recruitment process—but how do you use them effectively? In this episode, Helen Bowen, Sian Jorgensen, and Jane Reason explore the when, why, and how of reference checks, from pre-interview insights to post-selection verification.They discuss what makes a strong reference, how to spot red flags, and why references should be more than just a tick-box exercise. Plus, they share three key takeaways to help you strengthen your recruitment process and create a safer culture in your organisation.Follow our hosts on LinkedIn: Helen Bowen – Head of Seniors at The English School of Mongolia. Sian Jorgensen – Director of Encompass Safeguarding. Jane Reason – Former Head Teacher and Deputy CEO.------The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

How can we prevent domestic abuse, stalking, and violence before it’s too late?In this powerful episode, Chris East from Cornerstone Safeguarding is joined by Nick Gazzard OBE, Founder and CEO, and Sara Dillon, Training Manager of the Hollie Gazzard Trust, to discuss the incredible work being done in Hollie’s memory.At just 20 years old, Hollie Gazzard’s life was tragically cut short by domestic abuse, violence, and stalking. Since then, the Hollie Gazzard Trust has been dedicated to raising awareness, delivering vital training, and providing life-saving prevention tools, including the Hollie Guard app.- The importance of training in schools to educate young people on healthy relationships- How fundraising and community support keep Hollie’s legacy alive- Practical tools, including the Hollie Guard app, to help prevent violence and protect those at risk.This is a must-listen conversation for anyone passionate about safeguarding, prevention, and creating safer communities.Find out more about the Hollie Gazzard Trust at www.holliegazzard.org.Follow on LinkedIn------The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Nick Gazzard OBE, Sara DillonThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Parenting is a never-ending job - but when it comes to safeguarding, how can parents protect their children while still being… parents?In this episode, Antonia Noble, Founder of The Balloon Crew and Safeguarding Fundamentals, chats with Susan Dunigan, Founder of The Enlightened Parent, to explore how parents and carers can become modern, well-informed champions for their children’s safety and well-being.From recognising signs of concern to building strong relationships with schools, Susan shares practical strategies for balancing vigilance with trust - so that safeguarding becomes a natural part of daily life, rather than an overwhelming task.Don’t miss this insightful conversation on creating a safer world for your child - without losing the joy of parenting.For more info about The Enlightened Parent, you can follow Susan Dunigan via: Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Follow Antonia Noble on:LinkedIn Facebook - Safeguarding In Schools group pageSafeguarding Fundamentals-----The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Antonia Noble, Susan DuniganThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠Follow Cornerstone Safeguarding on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Masculinity is evolving - so how can we help boys develop a positive and healthy identity?In this episode, Chris East from Cornerstone Safeguarding, chats with Richard Pomfrett, founder of The Stay Safe Initiative and Boyz 2 Men, to explore how we can move beyond outdated stereotypes and support boys in developing a healthy, positive sense of masculinity.Richard explains why shifting the focus from ‘toxic masculinity’ to ‘positive masculinity’ can make a real difference in how boys see themselves and their role in the world.Key topics include:Practical ways parents can support the boys in their livesHow initiatives like Boyz 2 Men are helping young men navigate their journeyEncouraging open and honest discussions with boys about masculinityWant to learn more? Explore Richard’s work and discover practical tools for supporting boys in your life: https://thestaysafeinitiative.org.ukhttps://boyz-2-men.org.uk------The Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode:  Chris East, Richard PomfrettConnect via LinkedIn:Richard PomfrettChris EastThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠

Imagine stepping into a new role without any safeguarding structure in place! What would you do? In this episode, Chris East from Cornerstone Safeguarding, and safeguarding-guru Antonia Noble tackle this all-too-common scenario and provide you with a rapid-fire toolkit to build a robust safeguarding framework from scratch.Join them as they unravel the basics of:Crafting a dynamic Safeguarding TeamDesigning clear and effective Policies and ProceduresLaunching engaging Awareness and Training programsStreamlining Reporting Processes with cutting-edge softwareMastering Risk Assessments Cultivating a culture of Positive Team BehaviorThis episode is your essential guide to strengthening your safeguarding practices and creating a safer environment for everyone.------Connect with: Chris East on LinkedIn and CornerstoneSafeguarding.co.ukAntonia Noble on LinkedIn and antonianoble.comHost of this episode:  Chris East, Antonia NobleThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East from ⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠

In this episode, Chris East from Cornerstone Safeguarding speaks with Chrissy Sykes, founder ofMy Body Is My Body — an internationally acclaimed musical body safety programme, that has reached over two million children in more than 60 countries.Driven by a passion to protect children from abuse and exploitation, Chrissy created this free, interactive programme using the power of music, songs, and storytelling.The goal is to teach children that their body belongs to them, how to start consent from an early age, and how to navigate risks with confidence, all while preserving their innocence.Join us for an insightful conversation on how we can all play a role in keeping children safe.You can find out more via the website: My Body Is My Body------Connect OnLinkedIn:Chrissy Sykes⁠MBIMB⁠Chris EastCornerstone SafeguardingThe Balloon CrewSoaring To New Heights In SafeguardingHost of this episode: Chris East, Chrissy SykesThe Balloon Crew podcast is produced by Chris East and Leah East fromCornerstone Safeguarding

In Part Two of our Safer Recruitment series, we focus on the crucial interview stage—where safeguarding must remain at the forefront.Joining us once again are three safeguarding experts: Jane Reason – Former Head Teacher and Deputy CEO, with 28 years in education. Helen Bowen – Head of Seniors at The English School of Mongolia. Sian Jorgenson – Director of Encompass Safeguarding, supporting schools worldwide.This episode explores how to ask the right questions to ensure candidates align with safeguarding values. From addressing gaps in employment history to recognising unconscious bias, our experts discuss how a well-structured interview process plays a vital role in keeping children safe.------Host of this episode:  Jane Reason, Helen Bowen, Sian Jorgenson. The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by: Chris East and Leah East from Cornerstone Safeguarding

In this episode, we dive into Safer Recruitment: Part 1, and why safeguarding must be embedded in every step of the hiring process. Joining us are three safeguarding experts, with a wide range and extensive experience: Helen Bowen – Head of Seniors at The English School of Mongolia. Sian Jorgensen – Director of Encompass Safeguarding. Jane Reason – Former Head Teacher and Deputy CEO. From job adverts to CV checks and employment history red flags, our guests share practical insights on how safer recruitment begins before candidates even step foot in a school. They also discuss the importance of training and the key differences between UK and international practices. The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

In this episode, Antonia Noble, founder of The Balloon Crew and Safeguarding Fundamentals, is joined by Andy Privitt from Streetwise 365, an organisation dedicated to empowering positive change in the next generation of young people. Together, they tackle the vital topic of Personal Safety for Children. In light of recent events, they explore practical steps to help young people stay safe, focusing on proactive decision-making, managing risks as they gain independence, and the role of personal safety as a key element of safeguarding. Andy offers invaluable insights into fostering resilience and guiding young people to make informed decisions, equipping them to navigate the challenges of today’s world. Tune in to discover practical strategies for proactive safeguarding and personal safety. The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Get ready to take flight with The Balloon Crew, the podcast that brings together a network of safeguarding professionals to share their insights, experiences, and passion for protecting others. Each episode explores vital topics in safeguarding, offering fresh perspectives and practical advice to help you navigate this important field. In our debut episode, Chris East from Cornerstone Safeguarding is joined by the incomparable Antonia Noble—a.k.a. the “Safeguarding Encyclopedia,” Networking Queen, and visionary founder of The Balloon Crew! Antonia created The Balloon Crew as a vibrant space for collaboration, bringing people from diverse backgrounds and expertise together to exchange knowledge and empower one another. Discover her inspiring journey and how this unique community is revolutionising safeguarding by fostering connections and sharing wisdom. Tune in, take notes, and be inspired to soar with us as we kick off this incredible journey! The Balloon Crew podcast is produced by  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Cornerstone Safeguarding⁠⁠⁠⁠