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Positively Leading

Jenny Cole

Are you an aspiring or existing leader in schools? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or questioning your abilities? Then you may be interested in a leadership podcast hosted by Jenny, a consultant and former Principal with a passion for helping women succeed in their careers. With her expertise and personal experience, Jenny offers guidance on increasing confidence, leading teams, and creating a fulfilling life and career. Join her on a journey to discover what it takes to not only survive but thrive in the workplace as a compassionate and empathetic leader. 

Did you know there's more? You can listen to every episode, plus our show notes and links, by visiting our website at https://www.positivelybeaming.com.au/

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  • 22 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 30 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • S3 · E13
    Apr 9, 2025 · 20 min

    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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  • S3 · E12
    Apr 2, 2025 · 48 min

    S3E12 - Why Early Childhood Leadership Matters with Linda Sweet

    Step into the world of early childhood education with Linda Sweet, Deputy Head of Primary Early Learning at a K-12 school in Perth. With 35+ years of experience, Linda’s passion for nurturing young minds shines through as she shares her journey from enthusiastic educator to influential leader. We explore the power of play-based learning, how it builds resilience, emotional regulation, and social skills, and why creating curiosity-driven environments is key to early education. Linda also discusses the Reggio Emilia approach, the importance of advocacy for young learners, and the need for more diverse role models in the field. For aspiring leaders, Linda offers practical advice on making decisions, embracing uncertainty, and leading with confidence in the ever-evolving world of education. She shares tools for developing a staff and student charter. If you care about early learning, leadership, and fostering a love for discovery in children, this episode is for you! Tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation! 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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Showing 21–22 of 22 episodes