Positively Leading

S4E7 - Values: The Roots That Hold You Steady. A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! Why do some days leave you buzzing while others leave you flat? In this episode of Positively Leading, Jenny Cole explores the second of the three energy sources from the career decision-making matrix in Teach, Lead or Leave: your values. Jenny explains the difference between the aspirational words on the front office wall and the real values you feel in your body when someone treads on them, and why that tight chest in a staff meeting is often a value being stepped on rather than a sign that you're "the problem". Through personal stories and client examples, she shows how values act as your roots when schools keep shifting, and how misalignment can quietly drain your energy and keep you stuck. Grab your journal for three powerful questions to uncover your values, plus a simple week-long challenge to become a detective of your own reactions. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

S4E6 - Why Two Teachers Can Do the Same Job (and One Burns Out): A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! Ever wonder why two teachers can do the exact same job, yet one thrives while the other burns out? In this episode of Positively Leading, host Jenny Cole unpacks the crucial difference between a skill and a strength. Drawing on positive psychology research from Gallup, the VIA Institute, and more, Jenny explains why being good at something isn't the same as it giving you energy, and why chasing weaknesses often backfires. Through personal stories and real client examples, she shares six practical questions to help you uncover your own core strengths, plus a warning about the "shadow side" of overusing them. If you're feeling overwhelmed, underutilized, or just plain stuck, this episode offers the foundational first step toward redesigning work that truly sustains you. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S4E5 - An Introduction to the Career Decision-Making Matrix: A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! In this episode of Positively Leading, host Jenny Cole introduces the Career Decision-Making Matrix from her book Teach, Lead or Leave - a simple but powerful framework built around two key factors: your energy and your impact. Jenny walks through the four quadrants educators can find themselves in - Thriving, Underutilised, Exhausted, and Disengaged - explaining the warning signs of each and the pathways forward, from stretching and pivoting to resting or planning an exit. Whether you're feeling restless, exhausted, or unfulfilled, this episode offers a clarifying tool to help you honestly assess where you are right now, and why knowing that is the essential first step toward figuring out what needs to change. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S4E4 - Right Job. Wrong Life Stage: A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! You've been good at your job for years. You've been happy in it. And then, seemingly out of nowhere, it just stops fitting - even though nothing about the role has actually changed. Sound familiar? In this episode of Positively Leading, Jenny explores a career conversation that rarely gets the airtime it deserves: life stage. Drawing on stories from her coaching practice - a deputy principal drowning under the weight of leadership and young children, a head of department grieving the loss of predictability, a teacher navigating chronic illness and the identity she built around her classroom - Jenny unpacks why the role that energised you at 25 might quietly deplete you at 45. This isn't about burnout or a bad school. It's about evolution, not revolution - and giving yourself permission to want something different at different points in your career, without guilt. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S4E3 - This Isn't About Leaving... But It Might Be: A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! After naming the many faces of "stuck," Jenny Cole tackles the defensiveness that conversation stirs up. This isn't teacher-bashing, and it isn't a push to quit - it's about making intentional choices instead of defaulting to guilt, martyrdom, or burnout. Jenny unpacks why these conversations feel so threatening: our identities get tangled up with our roles, and questioning the job can feel like questioning ourselves. She draws a sharp line between quitting (reactive, driven by escape) and redirecting (intentional, driven by alignment) - and shares her own reckoning with losing her "who-ness" in her "what-ness" after leaving the principalship. Whether the aligned choice is staying, shifting, pausing, or leaving, Jenny's message is the same: you deserve to make it from clarity, not desperation. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S4E2 - Smart, Capable and Stuck: A Teach, Lead or Leave Episode

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! Why do talented, dedicated educators end up feeling trapped and exhausted - even when they're great at their jobs? In this episode, host Jenny Cole dives into a special series of episodes exploring what "stuck" really means in education, and what to do next. Through composite stories from hundreds of coaching conversations, Jenny introduces educators at every career stage - a burnt-out classroom star, an overwhelmed deputy principal, a veteran teacher who's stopped trying - and unpacks five hidden reasons capable people get stuck. It's not about resilience or commitment; it's a system built to keep good people stuck. Jenny offers permission: to be tired, restless, and honest about where you really are, without shame or judgment. A compassionate starting point for anyone who's ever dreaded walking through the school doors. ____________________________________________________________ Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S4E1 - Exploring Teach, Lead or Leave: An Interview

Curious to know if you are Thriving, Surviving or Stuck? Click here! Positively Leading is back with a new and exciting season! In this episode, we turn the tables and Jenny is interviewed by Jocelyn Seamer about her new book, Teach, Lead or Lead: What to do when you feel like you can't do it anymore. This is a delightful conversation between Jenny and Jocelyn - exploring why Jenny set out to write the book, who it's for, and importantly, what it's NOT about. Settle in for a conversation between friends who are as passionate about education as you are. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Summer Series 25/26 E4 - Re-release Starting the Year Strong for School Leaders

In this episode, Jenny explores why so many school leaders feel overwhelmed and exhausted by the end of the school year - and what they can do to ensure that 2026 feels more sustainable, intentional, and human. Drawing on decades of experience in education and years of coaching leaders, Jenny introduces Starting Strong, a framework designed to help leaders begin the year, a role, or a new initiative with clarity, purpose, and energy. She walks through the key elements of Starting Strong, including getting clear on what matters most, setting expectations, communicating well, listening to your people, running effective meetings, prioritising wellbeing, and deciding in advance the kind of leader you want to be. Jenny also shares how this work evolved from an ebook, to workshops, to a one-day program, and now into a flexible online course for leaders everywhere. If you’re determined not to repeat a year of burnout, resentment, or constant firefighting - and you want to lead with greater purpose, balance, and impact - this episode will give you both reassurance and practical direction. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Summer Series 25/26 E3 - Don't Spend 2026 on Autopilot

In this episode of the summer series, Jenny Cole encourages you to pause and ask: Am I leading and living with intention - or just reacting on autopilot? Designed for educators who feel stretched thin, this short but powerful reflection explores the cost of constantly running on default and offers practical ways to reset. Jenny shares how to recognise the signs of survival mode, reconnect with your personal leadership intention, and build small habits that help you show up as your best self - more often. With thoughtful prompts and grounded strategies, this episode helps you shift from reactivity to purpose, even in the busiest seasons of school and life. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Summer Series 25/26 E2 - Developing Intention with Clarity and Ease

In this reflective episode, Jenny Cole gently guides you through the ICE process - Intention, Clarity, and Ease - to help you step into 2026 feeling aligned and purposeful. With thoughtful prompts and practical exercises, this session invites you to consider how you want to show up in the year ahead, what matters most to you, and what habits or stories you’re ready to let go of. From identifying a personal intention or "word of the year" to naming your core values and giving yourself permission to choose ease, this is a calming reset designed for educators seeking a more intentional path forward. Whether you're listening from the beach, the garden, or your commute, this episode is your space to pause, reflect, and gently plan your next step. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Summer Series 25/26 E1 - Reflecting on 2025: Kicking off the Summer Series

In this first episode of the summer series, Jenny Cole invites you to pause and reflect on the year that’s been. Whether you’re crawling or cartwheeling to the finish line of 2025, this gentle debrief is your chance to acknowledge what worked, what drained you, and what you want to leave behind. Through thoughtful questions and quiet prompts, Jenny guides you to consider your energy, your small wins, and the stories you’ve been telling yourself - so you can enter 2026 feeling lighter, clearer, and more intentional. Perfect for a walk, a quiet moment in the garden, or while making yet another sandwich, this reflective episode offers space to honour your growth and set the tone for what’s next. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Introduction to Summer Series

After a short break, Positively Beaming is back! In this relaxed and reflective solo episode, Jenny Cole jumps behind the mic for an unscripted chat about the value of showing up—imperfectly, but authentically. Inspired by a recent catch-up with fellow women in business, Jenny shares why it’s okay to pause, reset, and return without all the bells and whistles. This new mini summer series isn’t about leadership theory—it’s about pausing to reflect on who you want to be and how you want to show up in 2026. Whether you're tuning in from the beach or a picnic blanket, this gentle episode invites you to take a breath and be present. If this vibe speaks to you, share it with a friend, save the episode, or leave a quick review. Thanks for being here—let’s dive in. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Winter Series E4 - Leadership, AI and Human Connection with Jade Aim

In this special episode of Positively Leading, we welcome Jade Aim, Principal of Kelmscott Primary School. Jade shares her inspiring path from teaching to leadership, shaped by early family experiences and the power of mentorship. She reflects on building a strong school culture through simple, consistent rituals and a shared school charter that fosters accountability and care. Jade also shares her game-changing approach to technology—using AI tools to cut through admin overload. From creating differentiated resources and translating documents for families to drafting parent communications and generating reports, AI helps her team stay focused on what matters most: relationships. “What teachers have is relationships,” she says, “and AI can’t build that yet.” With practical tips on authenticity, gradual change, and asking for help, this episode offers real-world strategies for leaders at every stage. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Winter Series E3 - Mastering Interviews Part Two with Jenny Cole

Walking into a leadership interview can feel overwhelming, especially in the high-pressure world of educational leadership. But what if the key to success isn’t about having perfect answers, but about telling authentic, memorable stories? After 15 years of coaching school leaders, I’ve seen how striving for perfection often backfires. Interview panels aren’t looking for textbook responses – they want to connect with a real person who brings genuine value, courage, and perspective to their team. In this episode, part two of Mastering Interviews, I break down five common mistakes candidates make and share a storytelling approach that helps you stand out. Using the SAO framework, you’ll learn how to craft three to five key stories from your experience and shape them into engaging narratives. These stories – when delivered with clarity, vulnerability, and purpose – help panels remember who you are, not just what you’ve done. The best candidates speak confidently from their leadership values, connect big-picture strategy to real-world results, and manage nerves with simple mindset shifts. If you’re ready to stop reciting bullet points and start sharing the story of who you are as a leader, this episode will give you the tools to do just that. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Winter Series E2 - Mastering Interviews Part One with Jenny Cole

Job interviews for leadership roles in education often come down to more than just qualifications. Despite fair intentions, unconscious bias still plays a powerful role in who gets selected. Many capable candidates reach the interview stage but are overlooked – not because of poor performance, but due to hidden dynamics like affinity bias, where panels gravitate toward people who feel familiar. In this episode, part one on mastering interviews, Jenny Cole dives into what really influences hiring outcomes. She explains why strategic networking and sponsorship are more powerful than traditional preparation alone. While referees speak when asked, sponsors speak up for you without being prompted – often making the crucial difference. You'll also learn how to build professional visibility, mirror interview language, and identify the advocates who can open doors. If you're stuck in the cycle of missed opportunities, this conversation will change how you approach interviews – and your career. It's time to stop relying on luck and start shaping how you're seen. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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Winter Series E1 - Understanding Parents of Students with Special Needs with Jenny Cole

Ever wondered what's really going through the minds of parents raising children with special needs? This candid exploration pulls back the curtain on one of education's most complex relationships. Drawing from three decades of experience in special education, I share how dramatically classroom dynamics have shifted. Today's mainstream teachers regularly support 8-10 neurodivergent students alongside typically developing peers, often with minimal specialized training. While acknowledging these extraordinary challenges, I invite educators to reconsider how we view parents of children with disabilities. The powerful "Welcome to Holland" analogy illuminates the profound grief these parents experience. Having prepared for one life journey (Italy) but unexpectedly landing in another (Holland), they're constantly recalibrating at every developmental milestone. The practical challenges are equally overwhelming—navigating complex healthcare systems, managing NDIS funding (essentially "doing taxes every week"), and advocating across multiple settings becomes a full-time job. What these parents truly desire isn't unreasonable. They want their children to be loved by the adults who care for them, to develop appropriate independence, form meaningful friendships, and acquire skills for adulthood. They want their children to belong in a world that often doesn't accommodate neurodiversity well. The path forward requires genuine empathy from both sides. Teachers cannot be responsible for what happens at home, and parents cannot control what happens at school. But when educators approach parents with curiosity rather than judgment, recognizing that parents hold valuable expertise about their children, the entire dynamic shifts. As one mother of autistic children explained: "I want you to try what research says works, involve me when possible, and love my child like I do." Listen as I share personal insights from growing up with a brother with learning difficulties and how that shaped my educational philosophy. This episode offers a thoughtful perspective for anyone navigating the complex territory where parental hopes meet educational realities. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S3E16 - The Art of Knowing Yourself with Jenny Cole

Ever reached that point where your work becomes so all-consuming that you start losing sight of yourself? That's exactly where I found myself recently – deeply passionate about my work supporting educational leaders, but recognizing the warning signs that preceded burnout in my earlier principalship career. My leadership journey began unexpectedly in rural schools, finding myself in leadership positions before I fully understood what I was stepping into. After serving as principal across three schools, I eventually burned out – a painful but profound learning experience that taught me the cornerstone of effective leadership: knowing yourself. Understanding your values, motivations, strengths and shadow side isn't just helpful for leadership – it's essential. Listen to the final episode of Season 3 and hear how I am practising what I preach. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S3E15 - Navigating Leadership in a Changing Landscape with Jenny Cole for the Structure Literacy Podcast

This week on Positively Leading we've reversed roles! We are excited to share an episode featuring Jenny and interviewed by Jocelyn Seamer for the Structured Literacy Podcast. ----- Leadership coach Jenny Cole takes us on a journey through the evolving landscape of educational leadership, offering practical wisdom gleaned from her transition from special needs teacher to principal to leadership consultant. At the heart of this conversation lies a powerful message about confidence: it's not something we wait to receive, but something we build through action. Jenny challenges the paralysis of imposter syndrome, suggesting that all leaders – from classroom teachers to principals – can overcome self-doubt by taking small, imperfect steps rather than waiting until they feel fully prepared. "Confidence comes from doing, not from learning," she emphasizes, encouraging leaders to leverage their existing strengths instead of fixating on perceived deficits. The discussion delves into the art of challenging conversations, with Jenny drawing a crucial distinction between "concrete conversations" (addressing clear rule violations) and "sensitive conversations" (handling more personal matters). Through practical examples and role-playing, she demonstrates how to use a "feedback bridge" to deliver constructive criticism in ways that maintain relationships while promoting growth. Her approach acknowledges that most educational professionals genuinely want to do well, with resistance often stemming from fear rather than unwillingness. For principals navigating the rapidly evolving world of literacy instruction, Jenny advocates for humility and regular communication with instructional leaders. She addresses the complexity of modern school leadership, noting how principals now manage responsibilities that would typically be divided among multiple departments in other industries. Despite these challenges, her message remains hopeful: teaching remains an excellent profession filled with dedicated professionals who show up each day committed to making a difference. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S3E14 - Productivity Hacks Part 2: Using To Do Lists, Trello & Microsoft To Do with Jenny Cole

Productivity isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters most with the limited time and energy we have. As school leadership becomes increasingly complex, with endless demands competing for our attention, finding ways to work smarter becomes essential to our effectiveness and wellbeing. Join me as I continue on from the previous episode with Part 2 in this special productivity series! ---------------- Digital overwhelm is a real challenge for school leaders. The constant stream of tasks, emails, and projects can leave even the most organized administrator feeling underwater. But what if the solution isn't working harder or longer, but instead leveraging the right digital tools? Microsoft To-Do emerges as an unsung hero for educational leaders. Unlike scattered notes or overloaded calendars, it provides a synchronized task management system accessible from both computer and phone. The ability to categorize tasks, set notifications, and even assign responsibilities to team members transforms individual productivity into collaborative efficiency. When that satisfying "done" sound plays after completing a task, it's not just administrative work—it's progress you can track. For complex projects that can't be managed with simple to-do lists, Kanban planning tools like Microsoft Planner or Trello create visual workflows that transform chaos into clarity. Whether tracking student assessments, coordinating school events, or managing enrollment processes, these boards allow everyone to see exactly where things stand without endless update meetings. Templates and automations eliminate repetitive work, while proper channel selection (knowing when to use email versus Teams) prevents communication overload. The most valuable insight might be the simplest: manage your energy before managing your time. Identify when you think best, block that time for deep work, and establish clear boundaries around your calendar. Consider whether skilled administrative support might accomplish in five contracted hours what takes your leadership team days to manage themselves. By working smarter with the digital tools already at your disposal, you can reclaim your focus for what truly matters—educational leadership that makes a difference. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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S3E13 - Productivity Hacks Part 1: Boundaries, Deep Work and Getting Time Back as a School Leader

Productivity isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters most with the limited time and energy we have. As school leadership becomes increasingly complex, with endless demands competing for our attention, finding ways to work smarter becomes essential to our effectiveness and wellbeing. In this solo episode, I share my journey as someone who is "naturally disorganized" and a "follower of shiny objects" who has nonetheless developed systems that work. Rather than offering advice as a productivity expert, I'm speaking as a fellow traveler who has tried countless methods and found what actually works in the educational leadership context. The cornerstone strategy I recommend is setting firm boundaries around your time. I also unpack practical techniques like the Pomodoro method for focused work sprints, calendar management strategies, and simple ways to leverage technology tools you already have but underutilize. Just as most of us only use our microwave's "one minute reheat" despite having thousands of settings, we typically scratch the surface of our technology's capabilities. Try implementing just one of these strategies this week. Your future self—less frazzled, more accomplished, and with greater headspace for strategic thinking—will thank you for making the change. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

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