Curious about stepping into connected self-leadership and embracing everyday spirituality? Welcome to the Connection Matters Podcast, where we explore the transformative power of nature, spirituality, and personal growth. Hosted by Leona Johnson, this podcast delves into the sacred weave of cultural emergence, ecopsychology, and personal transformation. With more than a decade of experience guiding people through deep, life-changing experiences, Leona brings you thought-provoking conversatio ...
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Inspiring Positive Change In Schools And Communities Podcasts
School Leaders Project is a podcast that dives deep into the world of education and leadership, featuring discussions with extraordinary thinkers and doers who are shaping the future of learning. Our aim is to simplify school leadership, providing you with the tools to create positive changes in your schools and communities.
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Many schools are filled with high levels of anxiety and trauma - due to increases in school violence, students' lack of respect for others and classroom interruptions during instruction. Teachers face unprecedented challenges in the classroom: students’ mental health struggles, students’ learning loss from remote learning caused by Covid-19, and so much more. Teachers also face real-life personal issues just like everyone else and these burdens don’t disappear when they go to work. At school ...
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A public affairs program spotlighting social justice work at the frontlines of local government hosted by former Mayor Amourence Lee and award-winning producer Dr. Robert Franklin. Inspiring stories of democracy in action, sharing practical tips for everyday people to spark positive change in your communities! Airs on KCSM Radio FM-91, the Bay Area's Jazz Station to the World.
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Tune into The Mic'd Up & Motivated Podcast every month, where internationally recognized youth motivational speaker Jason A. Dixon spotlights passionate professionals committed to empowering young people and creating positive change within families, schools, communities, and organizations. Each episode features in-depth interviews with educators, speakers, coaches, youth leaders, changemakers, and other notable individuals. Discover insightful conversations, gain practical strategies, and he ...
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It’s hard to imagine a bright future in the face of the climate crisis. This new podcast, from Hugo Award winning podcaster and author Emma Newman, will take you on a journey from despair to the most radiant, radical hope. Made in partnership with Friends of the Earth, Imagining Tomorrow shows how we can create a future that is good for people and for nature, based on innovations in technology and community action that are already having a positive impact. Join Emma as she pieces together th ...
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Prayercast: Embracing God's Love: A Heartfelt Prayer For Unity, Wisdom, And Protection In Our Communities
18:43
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18:43During this Prayercast, believers humbly and gratefully seek God's intervention, acknowledging His perfect love which fosters acceptance and dispels fear. They desire to share this love, promoting unity and compassion. The prayer requests wisdom and understanding of God's will, emphasizing forgiveness and unity over division. It extends to the vuln…
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Prayercast: Faithful Leadership: A Prayer For Guidance And Integrity In Governance
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16:55Today’s prayercast lifts up to God our intention of faithful leadership. We pray for integrity, humility, and commitment for our political leaders, especially in a time of transitions. We ask the Lord that they may act selflessly, resist greed, and uphold moral values. We also bow our heads to the almighty God as we reflect on Romans 13:1 and hope …
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Prayercast: From Despair To Hope: Embracing God’s Guidance In The Heart Of Education
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15:17Today’s prayercast focuses on embracing God’s guidance in the heart of education. We ask for patience, trust, and divine perspective in navigating the difficulties of the second half of the school year. We also reflect on Psalm 40 and turn to God’s wise and all-knowing eye for educators to escape despair and finally discover hope.…
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Where Are the Men? The Quiet Revolution of Masculine Healing with Hugh Newton
1:05:59
1:05:59
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1:05:59Hugh shares his personal journey from emotional numbness to wholeness, revealing how patriarchal conditioning restricts men's emotional capacity while perpetuating cycles of trauma. We discover the quiet revolution of men choosing love over competition, the importance of men's groups in creating profound brotherhood, and why foundational healing wo…
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Three Big Choices That Changed My Life - What Are Yours?
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32:26In this episode, we explore what it really means to live authentically in a world full of expectations. I'll take you behind the scenes of my unconventional choices: why I converted a van and how it became my sanctuary during challenging times, why I've invested in coaches and mentors for over 14 years straight, and how I've never worked a full-tim…
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Connection Over Chaos - A Parent's Guide to Surviving Summer at Home
30:50
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30:50In this honest episode, I take you inside our family's summer experiment and share the practical wisdom I've learned about staying connected to yourself and your children when everything feels unstructured and intense. Key Themes and Topics: We explore why self-care isn't selfish but essential for summer survival, how to create anchoring practices …
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All Eyes on Gaza - Real Lives, Real People
29:55
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29:55In this deeply moving episode, I share a story about my recent video call with Noorhan, a 25-year-old mother in Gaza, and explore how personal healing work and collective action are inseparably connected. We'll journey through the cost of speaking truth in today's world, the magic that happens when we gather in solidarity circles, and why your sens…
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Bearing Witness to Whats Happening in Palestine Without Shutting Down: Sacred Practices for Processing Collective Grief
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50:20https://www.leonajohnson.life/blogpodcast/staying-awake-without-shutting-down This isn't your typical Connection Matters episode, but it might be one of the most important conversations we'll have. I'm sharing how to navigate the collective trauma of witnessing genocide in real-time while staying connected to your own healing and capacity for meani…
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Stripped Back, Tuned In: Simplicity, Spirituality & Self-Leadership with Vicky Mateu
1:06:35
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1:06:35https://pages.leonajohnson.life/beyond-self-helpWhat does it look like to live in deep alignment, with nature, with purpose, and with your own inner compass? In this rich and nourishing conversation, Leona sits down with long-time friend, teacher, and collaborator Vicky Mateu, whose life’s work bridges spiritual ecology, parenting, nature connectio…
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The Ripple Effect: How Your Inner Work Transforms Everything (And Everyone) Around You
31:08
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31:08Join me for an intimate exploration of how personal transformation creates ripples that touch every relationship, community, and space you enter. You'll discover practical tools for emotional awareness, authentic connection, and joyful learning that transform reactive patterns into connected self-leadership. In this heart-centered episode, we dive …
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How Nature Questing Awakens Your Inner Compass and Everyday Spirituality
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40:14In this inspiring episode, you'll learn how to design your own nature quest ceremony - whether you have four hours or four days - and discover how this ancient practice becomes a gateway to connected self-leadership and integrated living. Join me as I share intimate stories from my own questing journey, including my transformative 40th birthday sol…
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Prayercast: Hope And Grace: A Prayer For Educators And Students Amid The Immigration Crisis
13:49
13:49
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13:49In response to the immigration crisis, we say a heartfelt prayer seeking God's mercy and steadfast support for educational communities. The prayer acknowledges the significant challenges experienced by teachers and students, the emotional disconnect among stakeholders, and emphasizes the crucial role of faith in finding relief, strength, and divine…
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Finding Your True North: Balancing Vision, Presence & Purpose in a Noisy World
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30:04So many of us feel caught between two extremes—trying to enjoy the present moment while also feeling pressure to figure out the future. In this heartfelt and practical episode, I dive into the deeper reasons traditional goal-setting often leaves us feeling stuck or unfulfilled, and why cultivating a “Life Compass” rooted in your values and purpose …
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From Childhood Trauma to Empowering Others: Chelsea Miller's Story
1:00:20
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1:00:20Send us a text Support the showBy Jason A. Dixon
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Rooted in Healing: How One Woman’s Herbal Journey Inspires Authentic Living - With Jane Christie
1:20:43
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1:20:43What You’ll Discover Join Leona and herbalist Jane as they explore the inspiring journey from speech therapy to a soul-led life of plant medicine, self-trust, and deep nature connection. Discover how everyday herbs, intuitive practices, and simple living can support personal growth and healing. Key Themes and Topics Jane’s transition from speech th…
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Beauty in Breakdown: 4 Resilience Practices for When Life Falls Apart
31:32
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31:32In this heartfelt episode, I share my personal journey through breakdown and the four essential practices that became my lifelines, helping you build your own resilience toolkit for life's inevitable challenges. Key Themes and Topics Join me as I explore the counterintuitive wisdom that our most painful breakdowns often contain hidden gifts, if we …
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When Nobody Gets Your Connection Path: Finding Your Spiritual Tribe in a Disconnected World
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33:43In this soul-nourishing episode, I share personal stories and practical wisdom for anyone feeling alone in their passion for connection, nature, and spirituality. You'll discover four powerful approaches to honor your path while navigating relationships with loved ones who may not understand your practices or interests. Key Themes and Topics Explor…
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Creating Sacred Space at Home: It’s a Way of Being
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27:27We explore the four essential elements of sacred space - intention, connection, presence, and evolution - and I guide you through practical, heart-led ways to declutter, create meaningful rituals, and invite beauty into your home, no matter the size or stage of life you’re in. Whether you're a soulful entrepreneur, a busy parent, or someone craving…
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The Art of Gathering - From Small Talk to Soul Talk
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47:45Join me in exploring how simple intentional shifts can transform ordinary gatherings into powerful spaces of genuine connection and growth. In this warm and engaging episode, we dive deep into the elements that make gatherings meaningful—whether in your home, community, or workplace. You'll learn how to create safety and structure, incorporate beau…
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Cultural Emergence Explained: Conscious Living & Connected Leadership
27:21
27:21
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27:21Ever wondered what exactly "Cultural Emergence" means, and how it could make a tangible difference in your daily life? Join me, Leona Johnson, as we dive deeply into this powerful practice, exploring how intentional culture-making influences everything from our personal well-being to collective transformation. You'll learn about the essential role …
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Prayercast: God Dependent; Be Like Sons Of Issachar; Wisdom In Changing Habits; Spiritual Renewal
18:19
18:19
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18:19“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) Teachers get two "new years": the start of the school year and the new calendar year. To recapture the new school year's optimism for the calendar new year, reflect on lessons learned from your students and what they revealed …
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Prayercast: God's Goodness And Provision; Patience In Classrooms; Christian Teachers Sharing Their Joy Of The Lord
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17:26"And hope will never fail to satisfy our deepest need because the Holy Spirit that was given to us has flooded our hearts with God’s love." — Romans 5:5 (Voice) During the holidays, a child in your class may be sad and withdrawn. You may long to comfort them, but be unable to. Remember, God sees this child's sadness and your longing to comfort them…
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Prayercast: Creativity and Strategies for Bringing Christmas into Classrooms; Sharing the Gospel of Christ; Wisdom for Detecting Holiday Fatigue; Demonstrating Integrity as Christian Teachers
16:25
16:25
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16:25"...for this day is holy unto the Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10b Schools are filled with unexpected and delightful moments of joy. Authentically share the Gospel of Christ with others by embodying joyfulness. Joy flourishes in classrooms when witnessed, celebrated, and nurtured. Embrace the givi…
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Prayercast: Connections Among Christians In Schools; God’s Provision For Student Teachers; Sowing Generously Into Students And Colleagues; Deliverance And Healing For Students In Juvenile Detention Centers ...
19:22
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19:22“None of you should look out just for your own good. Each of you should also look out for the good of others. As you deal with one another, you should think and act as Jesus did.” -Philippians 2:4-5 (NIRV) Uniting diverse individuals remains a challenge. Educators face this daily. Administrators must harmonize the teaching staff, student body, and …
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Understanding The Cause Of Disruptive Student Behaviors; God's Guidance For New Teachers; God's Peace And Comfort For Teachers; Healing Broken Relationships In Schools
19:21
19:21
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19:21Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another— and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV) Amidst busy schedule…
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Prayercast: Students' Mental Health; Self-Care for Teachers; Reconnect with God's Purpose and Calling
17:30
17:30
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17:30“At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son.” Acts 7:19-21 (NIV) Parents entrust their cherished children to schools, expecting love, safety, and nurturing. Similar to Pharaoh's daughter, teacher…
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Prayercast: Lament And Longing; Spiritual Clarity And Selfless Giving; Radical Renewal And Revival In America
20:11
20:11
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20:11But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Luke 18:16-17 (NIV) In today's education landscape, teachers must create nurturing env…
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Cultivating Connected Self-Leadership in a Disconnected World
33:32
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33:32This episode explores the transformative practice of connected self-leadership through journeying through the elements of presence and self-awareness as foundations for authentic leadership. Discover how to distinguish between the voice of fear and your inner wisdom, and learn how nature connection can strengthen your self-leadership practice. We e…
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The Elemental Connection: How Earth, Water, Fire & Air Deepen Your Everyday Spirituality
38:02
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38:02Through storytelling, science, and practical wisdom, we’ll uncover: ✨ The unique lessons and energies each element offers ✨ Simple, everyday practices to integrate elemental connection into your life ✨ How tuning into the elements can bring clarity, balance, and renewal ✨ Why nature-based wisdom is essential for heart-centred living By the end of t…
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Redefining Success: Tony Branch on Mentorship, Emotional Vulnerability, and Inspiring Change
1:07:00
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1:07:00Send us a text Discover the transformative insights of Tony Branch, a distinguished author and motivational speaker from New York City, who joins us to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of his journey. Tony's narrative explores the shifting landscape of motivational speaking, particularly for young Black men, and the pressing societal expectat…
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Prayercast: Teach From God’s Wisdom And Truth, Experience The Power Of The Holy Spirit, And Supernatural Increase In Faith
14:23
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14:23Every Christian educator is intentionally assigned to their school by divine purpose. You serve as a warrior on a mission from God. Your presence in the school building daily prevents countless unfortunate events and moments of tension from occurring. Through prayerful intervention, you guard the school environment, staff, and students from unseen …
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Prayercast: Unity And Hope In Christ, Envelop Students With Love And Grace, And All Sufficient Grace Of God In Times Of Overwhelm
14:49
14:49
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14:49In the demanding field of education, we face daily interactions with various individuals, including students, parents, and colleagues, which can sometimes lead to stressful situations. However, it's important to remember that God intends to refine our hearts through these challenges, not to add to our burdens. Trials are not meant to tear us down, …
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Prayercast: Faithfulness Of God, Transformation Of Hearts, Provision Of Resources, And Integrity In Assessments
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18:02In the journey of spirit-led teaching, physical stressors like exhaustion, illness, or recovery can deeply impact our work and lives. Whether we face these challenges ourselves or support our loved ones, it’s essential to remember that God is the ultimate healer. His strength covers all our needs—physical and spiritual. God may heal our bodies or u…
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Prayercast: God’s Mercy And Protection Over Schools And Communities
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17:19This week, let us raise our voices in praise to His Holy Name! Offer gratitude for the countless promises He has fulfilled and the miracles witnessed within your school, made possible by the presence of His Holy Spirit in dedicated teachers like you. Praise Him in anticipation of all He will accomplish within your students, the school community, an…
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Prayercast: Joy Of The Lord, Renewed Hearts And Minds, And Positive School Culture
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12:00Prayers come in various forms and can be offered through songs, communion, or in quiet moments, including prayers for classroom management. This week, be specific in your prayers. Name specific situations or individuals, such as a parent you need to call, a meeting you want to be purposeful, or a student facing difficulties. God listens attentively…
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Prayercast: Lord Of New Beginnings, Holy Spirit Led Interactions, And Wisdom For Lock-down Procedures In Schools
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15:25It is important to have a close relationship with God, just as students feel connected to their teachers and trust them with their concerns regarding family life. God delights when we come to Him with everything that is on our hearts and cherishes the time to connect with us. There is no prayer request too big or too small for God, and this facet o…
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Prayercast: Fear Of God, Teachable Hearts, And Healing For Troubled Minds And Hearts
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13:01Turn worries and stressful life situations, especially those that weigh on troubled minds, to God through faith. As a Christian teacher, letting go of anxieties and worries demonstrates trust in God's ability to work all things for the greater good and His glory. The Holy Spirit within provides the faith and help needed to release these worries, al…
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The Secret to Effective Change Leadership in Schools with Anne Sena
46:25
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46:25How do you lead change in schools while keeping people at the center? In this episode, we explore how technology, change management, and human connection all come together in modern education. Anne Sena, Director of Technology at St. David's School, shares her unique insights from a career that spans corporate America and independent schools. We di…
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EdTech Success Through Inclusive Change with Alex Inman
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53:17In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we’re thrilled to welcome Alex Inman, a leader in EdTech and change management, to explore the transformative journey of educational technology—from the first one-to-one programs to the latest AI innovations in schools. Join us as we dive deep into the lessons that past tech shifts can teach us about i…
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How nature connection can help us find focus and flow
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14:54By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with fresh strategies to bring ease and clarity into even the busiest days. Plus, don't miss the Flow with Nature: Daily Guide to Expanding Time and Focus . It's a FREE Nature-Based Time Management Guide to help you start a nature-connection practice that can reshape your days. Check out the full write-u…
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A Masterclass on Service Learning with Raj Mundra
40:15
40:15
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40:15How do we raise young leaders who see the world as their classroom and service as their responsibility? In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we sit down with Raj Mundra, an expert in education and civic engagement with over three decades of experience in shaping independent school students into compassionate, community-focused leaders. Ra…
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To dive deeper into these themes and explore detailed podcast notes inclduing more about Manda's new novel Any Human Power, check out my latest blog post here. More about Manda Scott Manda Scott is an award-winning novelist and host of the acclaimed Accidental Gods podcast. Best known for the Boudica: Dreaming series, her previous novels have been …
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Healing Ancestral Family Patterns for Personal Growth
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16:01In this episode you’ll learn practical tools like journaling prompts, nature-based practices, and rituals for release—all designed to help you navigate and transform inherited patterns with compassion and intention. We also explore ways to tap into the strengths and wisdom of your lineage, turning ancestral connection into a source of healing. Tune…
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Understanding and embracing neurodiversity with Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant [FBF]
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20:00How might the unique minds of Nikola Tesla, Andy Warhol, and Albert Einstein reveal the untapped potential in neurodiversity? Join autism experts Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman, and Barry Prizant in a groundbreaking discussion that dives deep into the heart of neurodiversity. This conversation not only challenges conventional deficit models but al…
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Re-wilding Our Nervous System For Connection with Jon Young
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1:17:08To read more about the episode read the full blog post here. Jon Young’s personal journey into nature connection and cultural mentoring The influence of Indigenous communities like the Bushmen of the Kalahari The impact and legacy of Jon’s mentor, Tom Brown Jr., and his teachings on peace, love, joy, and purpose. The role of sensory integration and…
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What is memory in the context of teaching and learning? With Ross McGill [FBF]
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15:40Dive into the fascinating world of memory and cognitive science with Ross McGill, also known as @TeacherToolkit , on this insightful episode of the SLP podcast. Sparked by his experience as a blogger facing critiques for evidence-based claims, Ross embarked on a deep dive into cognitive science, a journey that led him to explore the intricacies of …
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Why is strategic planning important? Lessons from Diane Tavenner [FBF]
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17:43Join us in this enlightening conversation with Diane Tavenner, an acclaimed leader in education, as we dive into the world of innovative school design and strategic planning in education. In this video, Diane shares her insights on creating schools that are responsive to the needs of current students, communities, and the evolving world. Discover t…
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How to Build Metacognition and Self-Regulation in Your School with Dr. Shyamm Barr
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49:34In this episode, we dive into the world of self-regulated learning with Dr. Shyam Barr, a thought leader in Australia specializing in student-centered learning and metacognition. Self-regulated learning is all about equipping students with the skills and capacity to understand how they learn best, when they learn best, and how to curate an environm…
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How to navigate national educational standards in the UAE? [FBF]
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22:08Dive into a thought-provoking episode with David Gerber, a pioneering educator in the UAE, as we explore how progressive schools can thrive within the constraints of national requirements. Recorded against the backdrop of the innovative Fairgreen school located in the Sustainable City of Dubai, this conversation uncovers the strategies and mindset …
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What makes a school sustainable? Lessons from Green School Bali [FBF]
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14:47Dive into an inspiring episode of the School Leaders Project podcast featuring Sal Gordon, the visionary head of teaching and learning at Green School Bali. Set in the lush jungles of Indonesia, this episode explores the groundbreaking educational approach that sets Green School apart as a beacon of the global education revolution. Sal shares his j…
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